Point Sublime Road Closed Because of Marble Fire Activity

Grand Canyon, AZ - Two North Rim fires, ignited recently by lightning, continue to be managed under Grand Canyon National Park's Wildland Fire Use strategy. This option allows some lightning-caused fires to burn, under specific conditions and within a predetermined area, for resource benefit. Both fires are being closely monitored and suppression actions will be taken if fire behavior contradicts resource management objectives. The National Park Service is mandated to preserve and protect park resources and the processes that sustain them, including fire.

The Marble Fire has grown to five acres in size. Located south of the Basin, approximately two miles northwest of the North Rim developed area, it is creeping slowly along the forest floor and burning pine needles and duff. The Dutton Fire, on Dutton Point, a remote portion of the Powell Plateau, is approximately twelve miles northwest of the North Rim developed area. It currently consists of a single burning snag. The fires are barely visible but fire behavior is expected to increase as forest fuels begin to dry out.

To ensure public safety, a temporary closure has been implemented on the W-1 and the W-1A Roads. The W-1 Road, also known as the Point Sublime Road, is the road that travels to Point Sublime through the Basin. It is also is closed from its junction with the W-4 Road. The W-4 Road is open and visitors can access Point Sublime on the W-4 Road. This order will be rescinded as soon as fire behavior has moderated and public safety is not compromised.

For additional information, please visit Grand Canyon’s web site at: www.nps.gov/grca.