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 increase. The fire remains on the West side of the Continental Divide and is approximately 11,000 hectares in size.
What’s new
Highway 93 South through Kootenay National Park opened yesterday evening (August 2, 2017). This highway 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.
As of today, the following additional areas have been closed proactively for the safety of the public, to reduce the potential for additional starts and to facilitate fire operations:
- In Kootenay National Park, the area northwest of the Honeymoon Pass Trail including the Hawk Creek Trail and Kootenay Park Lodge;
- In Banff National Park, the area to Ball Pass from the junction of Whistling Valley Trail.
As of Saturday, August 5, 2017, the south portion of the Rockwall Trail will be closed from Floe Lake trailhead on Highway 93 South to Tumbling Pass, including Floe Lake and Numa Creek backcountry campgrounds.
Air quality advisories and more information are available from these provincial government agencies:
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 the public is encouraged to stay informed and check for updates before heading into the park.
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.
IMPORTANT REMINDERS:
- 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.
FOR CURRENT INFORMATION:
Emergencies only: Report wildfires, illegal campfires, or suspicious smoke to Banff Dispatch at 403-762-4506
NOTE: Further updates regarding the Verdant Creek wildfire will be provided only when there are significant changes.