Fire activity continues to increase on Dragon Bravo Fire near Grand Canyon

COCONINO COUNTY, Ariz. (ABC4) — Record dry conditions and gusty winds lead to an increase in fire activity on the Dragon Bravo Fire on Friday.

As of Saturday morning, the fire is at 35,456 acres and is 26% contained. The dry conditions and wind pushed the fire to the north, while fire behavior intensified on the western flank of the fire near Saddle Mountain Wilderness.

Fire crews were able to complete protection efforts around the Kaibab Lodge and are currently looking at protection options for other historic structures in the area.

Windy and dry conditions continue on the fire ground, with wind gusts up to 30 miles per hour expected in the area, leading to near Red Flag conditions. Smoke will remain visible in surrounding areas, including the Grand Canyon’s South Rim.

U.S. Highway 89A is open in the area as conditions have improved, but Arizona State Route 67 remains closed.

The South Rim of the canyon is still open, but the North Rim will remain closed for the rest of the 2025 season.