At least 20 individuals are currently missing or unaccounted for after flash floods inundated a remote region of the Grand Canyon. This includes the historic lodge near the bottom of the site, officials reported on Sunday.
The National Park Service is requesting information from anyone who might have been hiking or backpacking along Bright Angel Creek. They are also reaching out to campers who had plans to stay at Phantom Ranch or the Bright Angel Campground.
Efforts are underway to locate travelers potentially stranded on the North Kaibab Trail. By Sunday morning, 62 people had been evacuated from Phantom Ranch and the lower North Kaibab Trail, with additional evacuations anticipated from Phantom Ranch and the Cottonwood Campground.
Park officials noted that footbridges along Bright Angel Creek have been destroyed, cutting off hiker access across the creek. Certain Colorado River crossings are also closed while damage assessments are conducted.
Evidence of destroyed stone bridge pylons remains visible along Bright Angel Creek. This follows the flash flood’s destruction of the footbridge on August 29.
The National Park Service stated, “The flash flood resulted in significant impacts to infrastructure throughout Bright Angel Canyon.” Staff are actively evaluating damage to trails, bridges, utilities, facilities, and other essential infrastructure.
Access to Phantom Ranch is limited to hiking, rafting, or mule transport. Known as a coveted Grand Canyon destination since its opening in 1922, the ranch remains a key location.
Colorado River traffic has been halted due to the risk posed by floating debris.