Las Vegas Sun

March 29, 2024

Fire at Mt. Charleston Lodge started in storage areas, officials say

Mt. Charleston Lodge Fire

Clark County Fire Department

What is left standing of Mt. Charleston Lodge after a fire Friday, Sept. 17, 2021.

Updated Monday, Sept. 20, 2021 | 1:59 p.m.

A fire that destroyed the Mt. Charleston Lodge started in storage areas under an outdoor dining deck, the Clark County Fire Department said today.

The fire was reported about 4:45 a.m. Friday at the lodge, which sits over 7,000 feet atop Mount Charleston. Nobody was injured, and the owner, the Ellis family, has vowed to rebuild the mountain retreat.

A number of potential causes were identified, including electrical and mechanical items, officials said.

“Due to the extent of fire damage to the area, each of these items could not be eliminated as to whether they caused the fire or not,” officials said in a statement.

While the exact cause remains undetermined, there is no indication the fire was intentionally set, officials said. A number of surrounding rental cabins were spared from the blaze.

"It’s a horrible situation, but we do plan to rebuild," said Christina Ellis, whose family also owns the Ellis Island and Village Pub brands. "We’re just hopeful that we’ll be able to recreate the charm and beauty that this landmark building provided."