Wildfire burns below Grand Canyon’s North Rim

A lightning-caused wildfire is burning below the North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park, where fire danger remains high and restrictions are in place, according to officials.

The Cliff Spring Fire was estimated at 171 acres and was zero percent contained as of Tuesday, according to Grand Canyon National Park. The fire is burning in grass, brush, pinyon pine and juniper below the North Rim.

No trail or area closures have been announced, but the park has temporarily stopped issuing permits for trips in the Walhalla Plateau area while fire managers continue to evaluate conditions.

Firefighters are using helicopter bucket drops as part of a direct suppression strategy. Park officials said crews cannot work directly at the fire’s edge because it is burning in steep, inaccessible terrain, and are instead focusing on safer locations to limit the fire’s spread.

Visitors may see smoke in the area as suppression efforts continue, officials said. Fire activity, weather and operational needs can change quickly, and visitors were urged to be prepared for changing conditions.

Fire danger is listed as high on both the South Rim and North Rim, where Stage 2 fire restrictions are in place. Those restrictions prohibit wood and charcoal fires, including campfires, warming fires and charcoal barbecues, as well as outdoor smoking in most areas, fireworks, explosives and other incendiary devices.