TUSAYAN, Ariz. — Authorities say there's a new wildfire burning in northern Arizona and smoke is visible from Grand Canyon National Park and surrounding areas.
The so-called Halfway fire is burning five miles east of Tusayan.
Kaibab National Forest officials say the fire began Wednesday afternoon and its cause is under investigation.
The fire has charred about 60 acres on national forest and national park lands and is burning through ponderosa pine and oak brush.
Officials say no structures are immediately threatened.
The National Park Service is considering closing U.S. 64 inside the park from Buggeln Hill to the turnout east of Yaki Point if safety concerns develop due to smoke.
An air tanker and helicopter plus several crews are battling the fire along with personnel from the Park Service and Forest Service.
Copyright 2013 The Associated Press.