In a heart-wrenching turn of events, the historic Grand Canyon Lodge at the North Rim has been consumed by flames due to the ongoing Dragon Bravo Fire, which has already scorched over 5,000 acres. Davy Crockett, vice-president of the Grand Canyon Historical Society, expressed his devastation upon witnessing the initial smoke plumes evolve into roaring flames that engulfed the lodge on Sunday.
This beloved structure, known for its breathtaking vistas of the Grand Canyon, was the sole place for visitors to stay within the national park’s North Rim. It had been a source of solace and inspiration for many, with one visitor describing their experience as “stunning” and a “balm for my weary soul.” The loss has driven countless individuals to express their sorrow online.
Karne Snickers, a tour guide who has operated in the area for 24 years, spoke fondly of the lodge, noting how spiritual it felt to sit on the deck, with its sweeping views and connection to nature. "I shed many tears yesterday," she conveyed, mourning the loss of not only the lodge but of the significant trees and natural beauty that adorned the region.
The fire, which was initially sparked by a lightning strike on July 4th, intensified rapidly, forcing firefighters to change their protective strategies once a water treatment plant ignited, causing concern over toxic gas releases. Many historic and ancient trees, some over 400 years old, have also perished, prompting fears that the ecosystem may take decades to recover.
This incident marks the second time the lodge has been lost to flames; the original building, designed by architect Gilbert Stanley Underwood in 1928, burned down after just four years. Rebuilding efforts following the previous devastation saw a new structure rise in 1938, which was cherished by summer visitors who enjoyed the lodge’s enchanting dining experiences and nature-infused surroundings.
While park officials have yet to reveal plans for reconstruction, a glimmer of hope persists among locals and visitors who emphasize the need to revive this historical site. "It's going to take time, but it needs to come back," Snickers remarked, reflecting a shared sentiment that echoes throughout the community.
This beloved structure, known for its breathtaking vistas of the Grand Canyon, was the sole place for visitors to stay within the national park’s North Rim. It had been a source of solace and inspiration for many, with one visitor describing their experience as “stunning” and a “balm for my weary soul.” The loss has driven countless individuals to express their sorrow online.
Karne Snickers, a tour guide who has operated in the area for 24 years, spoke fondly of the lodge, noting how spiritual it felt to sit on the deck, with its sweeping views and connection to nature. "I shed many tears yesterday," she conveyed, mourning the loss of not only the lodge but of the significant trees and natural beauty that adorned the region.
The fire, which was initially sparked by a lightning strike on July 4th, intensified rapidly, forcing firefighters to change their protective strategies once a water treatment plant ignited, causing concern over toxic gas releases. Many historic and ancient trees, some over 400 years old, have also perished, prompting fears that the ecosystem may take decades to recover.
This incident marks the second time the lodge has been lost to flames; the original building, designed by architect Gilbert Stanley Underwood in 1928, burned down after just four years. Rebuilding efforts following the previous devastation saw a new structure rise in 1938, which was cherished by summer visitors who enjoyed the lodge’s enchanting dining experiences and nature-infused surroundings.
While park officials have yet to reveal plans for reconstruction, a glimmer of hope persists among locals and visitors who emphasize the need to revive this historical site. "It's going to take time, but it needs to come back," Snickers remarked, reflecting a shared sentiment that echoes throughout the community.
