A powerful flash flood tore through part of Grand Canyon National Park Saturday, forcing dozens of people to evacuate and leaving major trails, bridges and camping areas closed indefinitely.
The flooding began around 2:30 p.m. Saturday in Bright Angel Canyon and the Phantom Ranch area. By Sunday morning, 62 people had been evacuated from Phantom Ranch and the lower North Kaibab Trail, with additional evacuations planned from Phantom Ranch and Cottonwood Campground, according to the National Park Service.
No injuries had been reported as of the agency’s latest update.
The damage is extensive. Nearly all footbridges crossing Bright Angel Creek were destroyed, cutting off normal hiker access across the creek. Park crews are still assessing damage to trails, utilities, facilities and other infrastructure.
Several popular areas are now closed until further notice, including:
- Phantom Ranch
- Bright Angel Campground
- Phantom Ranch Canteen and cabins
- The entire North Kaibab Trail
- Black Bridge
- Silver Bridge
The National Park Service says there is no estimated reopening date, and additional inner-canyon closures may be necessary.
The Colorado River was also closed to river traffic after metal structures and other debris were swept into the water. Rafters already inside the canyon are receiving instructions from park rangers, while people with upcoming commercial river trips are being advised to contact their outfitters.
Officials Are Still Accounting for Visitors
Authorities are also working to determine the whereabouts of people who may have been hiking or camping in the affected area when the flood struck.
The National Park Service asked the public for help locating people who may be missing or unaccounted for. The number has been changing as authorities account for visitors. The Associated Press reported Sunday that officials were seeking information about 15 people who are still missing.
NPS is asking anyone with information about people who were along the Bright Angel Creek corridor Saturday, including the North Kaibab Trail, Bright Angel Campground or the area known as “the Box,” to contact investigators.
Heavy Rain Fell in About 30 Minutes
About half an inch to 1 inch of rain fell in roughly 30 minutes, National Weather Service meteorologist Justin Johndrow told the Associated Press. Much of that water ran off immediately because of the steep terrain.
The flood sent water, mud, boulders and debris through Bright Angel Canyon and into the Colorado River. AP reported that the flooding widened the creek bed and appeared to create a new rapid in the river.
The area was already considered vulnerable to flooding. The National Park Service says the 2025 Dragon Bravo Fire affected the Bright Angel Creek watershed, and burned watersheds can face an increased risk of flash flooding and debris flows during heavy storms.
NPS has not said the fire caused Saturday’s flood.
Additional thunderstorms and heavy rain remain possible through Monday, with park officials warning of further flash flooding, debris flows, rockfall and changing trail conditions.
Visitors with upcoming hikes, backcountry camping trips or river trips should check the park’s current hiking and closure information before traveling.
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