Bright Angel Trail

Popular Grand Canyon Trails Reopen After Wildfire Closures

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GRAND CANYON, Ariz. – After more than a month of closures caused by the Dragon Bravo Fire, several popular hiking trails in Grand Canyon National Park are once again welcoming visitors.

The wildfire, sparked by lightning in early July, scorched more than 145,000 acres across the park’s North Rim, forcing widespread closures and raising safety concerns. During this period, iconic trails such as the South Kaibab, Tonto, and Bright Angel were shut down to protect visitors from hazardous air quality and unpredictable fire conditions.

Trails Now Open

As of this week, the National Park Service has reopened portions of key trails on the South Rim where conditions have improved:

  • South Kaibab Trail – Open from the trailhead to Tipoff

  • Tonto Trail – Open from Tipoff to Havasupai Gardens

  • Bright Angel Trail – Open from the trailhead to Pipe Creek Resthouse

New air quality monitors have been installed at Tipoff, Havasupai Gardens, and Phantom Ranch to provide continuous live updates online. Officials emphasize they will continue monitoring conditions closely.

North Rim Remains Closed

While progress has been made on the South Rim, North Rim trails remain closed due to dangerous fire activity. In particular, the North Kaibab Trail will stay closed indefinitely, with park officials citing ongoing safety risks.

“The safety of visitors and staff remains the park’s highest priority,” the National Park Service stated.

What This Means for Visitors

For those planning a trip, the South Rim once again offers safe access to some of the park’s most famous hiking routes. However, travelers should stay updated on trail conditions before heading out, as fire activity and air quality can still change quickly.

A Great Alternative Experience

If you’re looking for a way to experience the Grand Canyon’s beauty without stepping onto the trails, the Grand Canyon IMAX Theater in Tusayan is the perfect stop. The giant-screen film Grand Canyon: Rivers of Time takes you on a breathtaking journey through the canyon’s history, culture, and natural wonders — all in under an hour and in the comfort of an air-conditioned theater. Buy online and save 20%.

It’s an ideal complement to your South Rim adventure, especially on days when hiking conditions may be limited.