Wildfires Impact Grand Canyon Tourism
Phoenix – In northern Arizona, wildfires have significantly disrupted the tourism economy surrounding Grand Canyon National Park. One business, Canyon Trail Ride, which offers mule rides through the park, had to issue refunds totaling around $100,000 for prepaid reservations after their booking office, located in the historic Grand Canyon Lodge, was destroyed in the blaze on July 12th. Typically, the tourist season runs from mid-May to mid-October, but that timeline was abruptly shortened for the North Rim due to damage to lodges, cabins, and homes for park staff.
The Dragon Bravo Fire, caused by a lightning strike on July 4th, quickly spread, fueled by strong winds, burning over 11,000 acres. Crystal Mortensen, whose family has operated Canyon Trail Ride for over 40 years, mentioned that the fire forced them to close from July 12th to October 15th, impacting both tourists and their workforce of about 12-14 employees. They attempted to relocate some staff to other parks like Bryce and Zion, but not all positions could be filled.
Mortensen was relieved to report that all 53 mules were safe after staff managed to open their pens before the fire intensified. “They’re our biggest asset,” she noted, expressing their strong bond with the animals. Meanwhile, Arizona Congressman Ruben Gallego referred to the tourism sector as the area’s economic lifeblood, advocating for financial assistance to help businesses cope during this challenging period.
On July 9th, another fire, the White Sage Fire, ignited, spreading over 58,600 acres and remaining only partially contained. Xanterra, which manages the park and its resorts, is working to assist guests and tourism partners from the North Rim, albeit suspending mule rides scheduled from the South Rim for the time being. Chief Commercial Officer Andrew Herzel expressed sadness over the loss of historic structures like the Grand Canyon Lodge, which has served guests since the late 1920s.
“We’re focused on getting the fire under control first,” Herzel said, emphasizing the urgency of the situation while reflecting on the lasting memories the lodge has created for generations of visitors.
