Verdant Creek Wildfire Update
Parks Canada is actively managing the Verdant Creek wildfire. The fire does not directly threaten any communities at this time, however visitors and residents should expect increased smoke as temperatures rise. The fire remains on the West side of the Continental Divide and is approximately 11,000 hectares in size.
Reminders for August long weekend
Highway 93 South through Kootenay National Park continues to be affected by wildfire, smoke and fire suppression activities and may be subject to temporary closures to ensure the safety of the public. Check
www.DriveBC.ca and
www.alberta511.ca for possible temporary closures, alternate routes and the most up-to-date information.
A fire ban remains in effect in Banff, Yoho and Kootenay national parks due to the elevated fire danger and to prevent the possibility of human-caused fires.
Additional areas have been closed proactively for the safety of the public, to reduce the potential for additional starts and to facilitate fire operations. Most recently, the Hawk Creek and Ball Pass areas have been closed, and starting Saturday, August 5, the southern portion of the Rockwall Trail will be closed. Please check here for the existing area closures:
www.parkscanada.gc.ca/verdant-fire
Current air quality information can help residents and visitors plan their activities. Here are links to air quality advisories and more information:
The safety of the public, our crews, park infrastructure and neighbouring lands is Parks Canada’s first priority. Fire and weather conditions can change quickly, and everyone should stay informed and check for updates.
What is closed
To ensure public safety and to facilitate fire management operations, the following areas are closed:
In Kootenay National Park:
- Area northwest of the Honeymoon Pass Trail including the Hawk Creek Trail and Kootenay Park Lodge
- Portions of the Rockwall Trail beginning Saturday, August 5
In Banff National Park:
- Ball Pass area from junction of Whistling Pass;
- Sunshine Village and Sunshine Village Road;
- All trails in the Egypt Lake area, including Healy Pass, Citadel Pass and Sunshine Meadows;
- Brewster Creek area drainage;
- Backcountry campgrounds Re16, E13, E5, Su8 and BW10.
What is open
- Shadow Lake Lodge and backcountry campgrounds Re6, Re14, and Re 21 remain open.
- The Radium Hot Springs pools, Redstreak Campground, nearby trails and Storm Mountain Lodge remain open as usual, and will not be affected by any temporary road closures resulting from the fire.
FOR CURRENT INFORMATION:
Emergencies only: Report wildfires, illegal campfires, or suspicious smoke to Banff Dispatch at 403-762-4506
NOTE: Further updates will be provided only when there are significant changes.