A wildfire in Kootenay National Park has resulted in a backcountry evacuation operation and closure, as well as sent smoke drifting into the Bow Valley early Saturday evening (July 15). As of 1 p.m.
A wildfire in Kootenay National Park has resulted in a backcountry evacuation operation and closure, as well as sent smoke drifting into the Bow Valley early Saturday evening (July 15).
As of 1 p.m., Parks Canada issued a closure in Kootenay and Banff national parks due to a wildfire near Verdant Creek. The closure area is located to the east of Highway 93S (Kootenay Parkway) from the Verdant Creek Trail to the Simpson River Trail to the height of land on Haiduk Peak and including the Whistling Valley Trail, Pharoah Creek Trail and all trails in the Egypt Lake and Healy Pass Area, including the Healy Pass Trail.
The closure extends to the eastern boundary of Kootenay National park from the Simpson River to the boundary of Banff National Park including the Simpson Pass Trail.
The area closure applies to all backcountry users, including day hikers and campers. Hikers in this area are being turned around, and backcountry camping permits cancelled. Parks Canada staff are evacuating backcountry campsites in the area, as well as trails to ensure public safety while they respond to the wildfire.
Individuals with backcountry reservations in the area closure should contact 403-762-1556 or visit a Parks Canada Visitor Centre. More information about the wildfire is expected from Parks Canada on Saturday evening.
