News Release

Closure areas open on the North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park following the Dragon Fire

A wildland firefighter monitors the Dragon Fire on July 28, 2022 (NPS Photo)

News Release Date: August 26, 2022

Contact: Joelle Baird, 928-606-3154

Effective immediately, all Dragon Fire closure areas on the North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park have been reopened to the public. These areas include the Tiyo Point Trail, the Widforss and Outlet Canyon backcountry use area, and the Widforss Forest Trail.

The 1,362-acre lightning-caused fire began on July 17, 2022. The Dragon Fire and was allowed to fulfill its natural role in a fire-dependent ecosystem.   

Visitors should be alert to the following post-wildfire environmental hazards:

• Storms resulting in flash flooding that could wash out roads and initiate debris flows.

• Unstable burned trees (snags) that could fall or shed large limbs.

• Eroded and very rough roads resulting in dangerous driving conditions.

• Unstable terrain with potential for rolling debris (logs, rocks, boulders, etc.).

• Burned out tree stump holes that could cause injury if stepped in.

• Blowing dust on roads and hillsides.

Grand Canyon National Park remains in stage 1 fire restrictions which requirescampfires always be in a designated fire ring within a maintained campground. Inner canyonusers can use gas cook stoves, but campfires and other open fires are never allowed below therim. River users should continue to follow the conditions of their permit regarding fires alongthe Colorado River.

Please visit:  https://www.nps.gov/grca/learn/management/firemanagement.htm for additional information about wildland fire at Grand Canyon National Park.

-NPS-