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BC wildfire update – as of August 3

Our thoughts are with the communities, first responders and tourism industry colleagues affected by the forest fires currently burning throughout British Columbia. We are committed to sharing any relevant information on our consumer and industry websites.

Information and Resources 

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.

Highway 93 South through Kootenay National Park reopened August 2. 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.

What’s Closed

  • 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
  • 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 

What’s Open

  • Shadow Lake Lodge and backcountry campgrounds Re6, Re14, and Re 21 remain open.
Upcoming closures
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.

Important Reminder
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

While there are closures that need to happen to protect the safety of visitors, most of Banff National Park remains open and ready to welcome visitors.

Advise anyone travelling to Banff National Park to plan ahead and check the resources below for the most up-to-date information;

  • Banff Lake Louise fire resource page
  • Parks Canada Important Bulletins on fire activity
  • Real-time information on Banff parking, camping, tails and day-use areas 
  • Highway reports
  • Air quality advisories Alberta and British Columbia 
  • Environment Canada air quality advisories
  • The Banff Lake Louise Visitor Centre. Reach them on Twitter at @banff_info
  • Individuals with backcountry reservations in the area closure should contact 403-762-1556 or visit a Parks Canada Visitor Centre
  • Contact your hotel or tour operator if you are concerned about any impact on your travel plans.

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