Parks Canada is actively managing the Verdant Creek wildfire. Recent precipitation and cooler temperatures have slowed the spread of fire and allow crews to continue to work directly on the fire’s edge. The fire does not directly threaten any local communities or the Bow and Columbia valleys.
A fire ban remains in effect in Banff, Yoho and Kootenay national parks to prevent the possibility of human-caused fires. Despite recent rain, forests are still very dry. Warm and dry weather anticipated in the coming days will return fire danger to high or extreme.
What’s new:
Some area closures related to the Verdant Creek fire are, or will be, reopened.
As of August 15, the General Store at Kootenay Park Lodge is open.
As of Wednesday August 16, the following areas will re-open:
In Kootenay National Park:
- The southern portion of the Rockwall Trail, from Floe Lake trailhead on Highway 93 South to Tumbling Pass, including Floe Lake and Numa Creek backcountry campgrounds.
Notes:
- Existing area closures (not related to this fire) remain in place for Numa Creek and Tumbling Creek.
- Backcountry reservations for this area will be taken starting Wednesday August 16th. Please visit a Parks Canada Visitor Centre or call 250-347-9505 in Kootenay National Park.)
In Banff National Park:
- Brewster Creek area drainage (including backcountry campground Bw10).
Note:
- The Allenby Pass seasonal trail restriction and Upper Bryant Creek trail closure from August 1st to September 30th remains in effect.
- As of Thursday, August 17th, the remaining facilities at Kootenay Park Lodge will re-open.
- All other closures associated with the Verdant Creek Wildfire remain in effect. Visitors are encouraged to check here regularly for the most current list of closures: http://www.pc.gc.ca/apps/scond/index_e.asp
FOR CURRENT INFORMATION:
- For current area closures and air quality information, refer to our website: www.parkscanada.gc.ca/verdant-fire and our Facebook and Twitter channels.
- Highway 93 through Kootenay National Park may be affected by fire suppression activities, including reduced speed zones. Check www.DriveBC.ca and www.alberta511.ca for the most up-to-date information.
Emergencies only: Report wildfires, illegal campfires, or suspicious smoke to Banff Dispatch at 403-762-4506