Wildfires Destroy Grand Canyon North Rim Lodge, Burn 45,000 Acres

Zion Canyon Hot Springs, a new geothermal resort near Zion National Park in La Verkin, Utah, has opened with over 50 pools inspired by global hot springs such as Iceland’s Blue Lagoon and the Dead Sea. The facility, developed by WorldSprings, features natural sulfur springs, cold plunges, barrel saunas, and an on-site café, offering a wellness retreat amid the region's iconic red-rock landscapes. This resort aims to revive public access to the healing waters of the La Verkin Sulphur Springs and provide a premier destination for relaxation and rejuvenation in the U.S. desert. Meanwhile, in Arizona, wildfires triggered by lightning strikes have destroyed over 45,000 acres of Grand Canyon National Park, including the historic Grand Canyon Lodge on the North Rim, leading to evacuations and park closures. Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs has criticized the management of the fires, which remain at 0% containment with over 200 firefighters battling the flames. These events highlight both the development of new natural wellness attractions in the American West and the challenges posed by increasing wildfire risks to historic and natural landmarks.