Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

Small businesses that rely heavily on tourism are anxious about potential losses due to two wildfires threatening the Grand Canyon area.

Officials have closed the North Rim because of the Dragon Bravo fire, which has destroyed over 70 structures, including the historic Grand Canyon Lodge.

Canyon Trail Ride, which has been offering mule rides on the North Rim for 42 years, has decided to shut down operations for the rest of the year. Owner Tawn Mangum mentioned that they have issued refunds exceeding $100,000.

Due to the closure, the business is also unable to provide work for its 12 employees. Mangum expressed concern, stating, “What really troubles me is that many of these employees have been with me for years. It feels hard not to be able to support them.”

Senator Reuben Gallego has referred to tourism as the region’s economic lifeline and is hopeful that small businesses will receive assistance through subsidies and low-interest loans.