A wildfire that tore through a historic Grand Canyon Lodge​ had been allowed to burn for days before erupting over the weekend, raising questions about federal officials' decision not to aggressively attack it right away.

All wood-burning and charcoal fires, such as campfires and charcoal barbecues, are prohibited. In addition, visitors and residents can only use liquid petroleum appliances like stoves, lanterns or heating devices in an empty area or one that doesn’t have flammable materials within three feet.

The fire on the North Rim of the Grand Canyon started from a lightning strike but was managed as a controlled burn until it spread.

A wildfire that destroyed a historic Grand Canyon lodge is continuing to spread out of control after it had been allowed to burn for days.

The historic Grand Canyon Lodge on the North Rim was destroyed by a wildfire on July 13, park officials said. Here's what we know.

The Grand Canyon Lodge was the park's one and only hotel, according the National Park Service, with the next nearest lodgings roughly 18 miles away.

The visitor center and a wastewater treatment plant were among the 50 to 80 structures lost, the park superintendent said. The area was evacuated Thursday.

A water treatment facility at the North Rim had been compromised by the fire, causing chlorine gas to fall to the bottom of the Canyon.