Grand Canyon Trails Reopen as Dragon Bravo Fire Subsides
The aftermath of the Dragon Bravo Fire at Grand Canyon National Park has seen a positive turn as officials have lifted some trail closures imposed last month. Visitors can now enjoy access to certain sections that were temporarily off-limits due to the wildfire.
The South Kaibab Trail leading to the Tipoff rest area is once again accessible. Additionally, the Tonto Trail between Tipoff and Havasupai Gardens has reopened, and the Bright Angel Trail is open up to the Pipe Creek Resthouse, situated south of the Colorado River.
Significant improvements in air quality have been observed as the fire’s intensity diminishes. To ensure safety and keep visitors informed, new air monitors have been established at Phantom Ranch, Havasupai Gardens, and Tipoff.
Looking ahead, park officials are eyeing a November 1 reopening date for Phantom Ranch and the Bright Angel Campground. Before this can happen, new safety protocols such as flood detection and warning systems will be introduced, alongside the development of evacuation strategies and visitor information dissemination.
Despite the reopening of some trails, the risk of flooding in the Bright Angel Creek watershed has increased, posing a potential threat to overnight visitors and staff at Phantom Ranch.
Meanwhile, the North Kaibab Trail and Highway 67 leading to the North Rim will remain closed indefinitely. These areas require substantial maintenance and structural modifications to address issues like rockslides.
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