Arizona Public Radio | Your Source for NPR News
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Grand Canyon officials monitoring lightning-caused wildfire on North Rim

The lightning-caused Dragon Fire started on July 17, 2022 on the North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park. Personnel are monitoring its behavior and allowing it fulfill its natural role in the ecosystem.
NPS Photo/Fire Effects
The lightning-caused Dragon Fire started on July 17, 2022 on the North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park. Personnel are monitoring its behavior and allowing it fulfill its natural role in the ecosystem.

Fire managers at Grand Canyon National Park say a lightning-caused wildfire on the North Rim has grown to 85 acres.

The Dragon Fire started on July 17 about five miles west of the North Rim Grand Canyon Lodge and is burning in ponderosa pines.

Managers are allowing the fire to burn in order to fulfill its natural role in the ecosystem.

Crews are monitoring the fire’s activity and buffering containment lines to the north and east of the fire. Officials say managers are basing their strategies on firefighter and public safety as well as current and expected weather and environmental conditions.

The Tiyo Point Trail is closed and drivers on W-1/Point Sublime Road are asked to use caution because of equipment and personnel.

Smoke could impact the Grand Canyon Lodge and may also be seen from the South Rim.