FLAGSTAFF, AZ — The Grand Canyon Trust is deeply saddened by the devastating flash flooding in Grand Canyon National Park on August 29, 2026. Our hearts go out to the families, friends, and loved ones of those who lost their lives.
We are grateful for the rapid evacuations and to the agency personnel who continue to work tirelessly to locate the missing in the wake of this tragedy.
As we mourn the human losses, we also recognize the profound impact the damage to park infrastructure caused by the flooding will have on park staff, residents, affiliated tribal members, communities, businesses, and national park visitors from around the globe for years to come.
According to preliminary park estimates, approximately 40% of the transcanyon waterline, which conveys water from Roaring Springs on the North Rim to the pumping station at Havasupai Gardens, where it is pumped up to the South Rim, has been damaged or destroyed, along with almost every footbridge spanning Bright Angel Creek. Phantom Ranch, the entire North Kaibab Trail from the North Kaibab Trailhead to Phantom Ranch, as well as Black Bridge and Silver Bridge crossing the Colorado River are all closed until further notice.
At present, search and recovery operations continue and park staff are still evaluating the damage to the park’s trails, bridges, and other infrastructure. Once these operations are complete and an inventory of the destruction is finished, the park will certainly need significant support to repair and rebuild following these devastating losses.
The Grand Canyon has left a lasting imprint on millions of visitors from around the world. As the floodwaters recede and the hard work of repair and rebuilding begins, we know the Grand Canyon can count on the support of the many people it has touched.
In the coming months and years, rebuilding what has been lost will take on-the-ground volunteers to support and amplify the National Park Service’s efforts. Please consider signing up for our volunteer email list to find out how you can be part of the effort to help restore the Grand Canyon.
