The lightning-caused Ikes Fire is being utilized to fulfill its natural role in a fire-dependent ecosystem on the Kaibab Plateau. The fire is being utilized to achieve a variety of resource objectives including reducing hazardous fuels, promoting forest regeneration, improving wildlife habitat, and restoring more open forest understory with grasses and forbs. Fire is a force of nature that has shaped the vegetation and ecosystems of the Grand Canyon region.
Location and Cause:The Ikes Fire, which started on July 25, is a lightning-caused fire on the North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park and the North Kaibab Ranger District of the Kaibab National Forest.
Closures: Grand Canyon National Park North Rim is OPEN.
Because of concerns for public and firefighter safety, the Rainbow Rim Trail and the viewpoints from Parissawampitts Point to Stina Point on the North Kaibab Ranger District of the Kaibab National Forest are closed. Crazy Jug Point north of Parissawampitts is open. For hikers and mountain bikers, the Arizona National Scenic Trail is an alternative recreational opportunity while the Rainbow Rim Trail is closed. The Arizona National Scenic Trail is accessible from many points along Highway 67 and offers a variety of scenery, including views into the Grand Canyon.
Additional details are included in the Ikes Fire Closure Order and Map.
Highway 67 and the North Rim Village, North Rim Lodge and businesses are open. However, some road and trail closures are in effect for the Ikes Fire area within Grand Canyon National Park. The following roads and trails are closed on the North Rim:
Powell Plateau Trail
North Bass Trail
Fire Point
Swamp Point
W4 road north of the intersection of the W4 and W1 Roads.
This closure will remain in effect until further notice.
The Ikes Fire poses no danger to structures or local infrastructure.
