A devastating wildfire, known as the Dragon Bravo Fire, has consumed one of the Grand Canyon’s most cherished and remote destinations, leaving nature lovers and frequent visitors heartbroken.
Tucked away on the North Rim, the historic lodge and surrounding area at Tuweep (also known as Toroweap) were overtaken by the “Dragon Fire,” a lightning-sparked blaze that has scorched thousands of acres in a region prized for its solitude and stunning views. The fire, which ignited on July 11 and has grown rapidly in size, destroyed several structures in the area, including the rustic Grand Canyon Lodge at Tuweep — a backcountry favorite that offered visitors a chance to take in one of the park’s most dramatic vistas without the crowds.
Park officials have confirmed that backcountry rangers and fire crews had to evacuate the area quickly as conditions worsened. While no injuries have been reported, the loss of the lodge and associated facilities is deeply felt by visitors who treasured the site’s peaceful beauty.
The lodge, perched just steps from the canyon’s edge, was known for its massive limestone facade, sloped roof, and ponderosa pine beams. Inside, the “Sun Room” offered guests a panoramic first look at the canyon through nearly floor-to-ceiling windows—a moment many travelers never forgot.
Park officials say between 50 and 80 buildings were destroyed by the Dragon Bravo Fire, including the visitor center, ranger residences, a wastewater treatment facility, gas station, and numerous historic cabins. Miraculously, there were no injuries or deaths. All guests, employees, and residents were safely evacuated.
The Tuweep area has long been known as one of the park’s most unique viewpoints — perched 3,000 feet above the Colorado River and far removed from the well-traveled South Rim. The site has no paved roads, and reaching it requires a rugged drive that deters casual tourists but rewards the adventurous with a raw, breathtaking view of the canyon.
Comments poured in on social media from devastated fans of the area, many sharing photos and memories of past visits. “Tuweep was a sacred place for us,” one commenter wrote. “There was nothing like watching the sun rise over the canyon from the edge of that cliff.”
The National Park Service has not yet provided a timeline for when, or if, the area might reopen. The Dragon Fire remains active, and crews continue working to prevent it from spreading further across the North Rim.
Photo credit NPS: More information and updates can be found on the NPS website.
