Banff and Kootenay National Parks Update: Verdant Creek Wildfire
NOTE: Further updates regarding the Verdant Creek wildfire will be provided only when there are significant changes.
Parks Canada continues to actively manage the Verdant Creek wildfire. Our fire management specialists are confident that the fire is not a risk to communities in the Bow Valley.
Parks Canada has opened trails in the Egypt Lake area, Healy Pass, Sunshine Meadows and Sunshine Village.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:
- The safety of the public and our crews, and protecting park infrastructure and neighbouring lands is Parks Canada's first priority.
- The fire is still active. Depending on wind direction, smoke may continue for a few days, and may settle into valleys overnight. Air quality advisories and more information are available from these provincial government agencies:
- A fire ban remains in effect in Banff and Kootenay National Parks due to the elevated fire danger and to prevent the possibility of human-caused fires.
- Backcountry camping permits for Su8 in Banff National Park and the Verdant Creek backcountry campground in Kootenay National Park remain cancelled until further notice. Individuals with backcountry reservations should contact 403-762-1556 or visit a Parks Canada Visitor Centre.
WHAT IS OPEN:
- All facilities in Banff and Kootenay National Parks are open, except for the area closures.
WHAT IS CLOSED:
These backcountry area closures remain in place within Banff and Kootenay National Parks:
As the situation evolves, additional trails may be re-opened. Visitors are encouraged to check our website for current closure information and maps.
IMPORTANT REMINDERS:
- It is illegal to fly an unmanned air vehicle (UAV, or drone) in a national park. Flying a drone or UAV during fire management operations is extremely hazardous. It endangers fire management personnel and aircraft, and impedes the important work they're doing. People who attempt to fly drones in these areas can face fines of up to $25,000 under the Canada National Parks Act.
- Current Frequently Asked Questions are posted on Banff National Park’s website.
For information about Mount Assiniboine Provincial Park:
www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/explore/parkpgs/mt_assiniboine
FOR CURRENT INFORMATION:
Refer to our website:
www.parkscanada.gc.ca/banff and our Facebook and Twitter channels.
Emergencies only: Report wildfires, illegal campfires, or suspicious smoke to Banff Dispatch at 403-762-4506.