Fire information and updates

What’s happening?

Parks Canada’s Fire Management Team in Mount Revelstoke and Glacier is prepared to ignite the Flat Creek prescribed fire in Glacier National Park any time after August 18, 2022.

Safety is the top priority. Prescribed fires are conducted under exacting conditions (e.g. weather, moisture, wind direction, supporting resources, etc.) and will only go forward when the safety of the public, our crews, infrastructure and neighbouring lands can be assured.

Currently, the Flat Creek Prescribed Fire area is expected to meet the required conditions this week. Fire management specialists will burn a test plot on Friday and proceed with ignition if the results are favourable. The Flat Creek Prescribed Fire is in the western part of Glacier National Park, 200 metres southeast of the Trans-Canada Highway across the Illecillewaet River. The intent is to proactively burn a 580-hectare area near the national transportation corridor to limit the potential for wildfire to spread in both the Flat Creek and Illecillewaet River drainages. It will also help diversify the forest and create new habitat for many species of concern in the park such as whitebark pine, various species of bats, and olive-sided flycatcher.

Background:

Parks Canada uses a combination of prescribed fire, mechanical forest thinning and appropriate response to wildfire to reduce the impacts of wildfire and protect the public. Prescribed fire is the application of fire to a specific land area, planned and managed by fire specialists, to accomplish ecological or vegetation management objectives. In Mount Revelstoke and Glacier national parks, planning and preparations are in place for several prescribed fires to reduce wildfire risk, restore wildlife habitat and/or improve forest health.

It can take years to get the right “prescription” to light a prescribed fire. The specific conditions needed include current and forecasted weather; wind speed and direction; moisture content in the trees, soil, and air; natural or man-made barriers (fire guards) in place to limit fire spread; availability of resources; and consideration of the impacts on visitors and neighbouring communities.

Having plans in place and maintaining on the ground preparations ensures that if the right conditions are achieved, Parks Canada fire management teams are ready to proceed at short notice.

Mount Revelstoke and Glacier prescribed fires

Any one of the following prescribed fires could proceed later this summer or fall should conditions allow.

Glacier National Park

• The 20-Mile Prescribed Fire is located on the western edge of the Purcell Range in the Beaver River Valley along the eastern boundary of Glacier National Park. Parks Canada fire management specialists plan to ignite a 500-hectare prescribed fire bounded by previously burned area and natural features to prevent fire spread. The fire will create a strategic fire break between the eastern boundary of the park and neighbouring provincial lands; and will help restore forest health and open more habitat for whitebark pine, an endangered species.

Mount Revelstoke National Park

• The Parkway Bend Prescribed Fire is a continuation of work completed in 2020, located 17 km up the Meadows in the Sky Parkway. The primary goal of the prescribed fire is to create a landscape level fuel break limiting the potential spread of wildfire on the front face of Mount Revelstoke. Restoring fire to the landscape will also help improve forest health.
• The Lindmark Prescribed Fire is adjacent to the Parkway Bend site and will support completion of a fire break on the front face of the mountain.
• The Lower Slopes Prescribed Fire: Work will continue on the lower slopes of Mount Revelstoke to strengthen a section of the Revelstoke Community fire guard that runs through the park. If conditions allow, prescribed fire will be used to burn off the surface fuels within the fireguard area.

Why?

Prescribed fires reduce forest fuels to lessen the severity of wildfires, release nutrients, and allow for a mosaic of ecosystems that support diverse plants and wildlife. Through safe and effective fire management, we are reducing the danger of wildfire to the public, infrastructure and neighbouring lands, while improving the ecological health of our forests and grasslands.

What to expect

The safety of the public, fire crews, park infrastructure, and neighbouring lands and communities is always the number one priority.

Parks Canada is working closely with BC Wildfire Service as well as CP Rail and the BC Ministry of Transportation to prepare for these fires.

If the Flat Creek prescribed fire proceeds, smoke and the fire may be visible from the Trans-Canada Highway. There are no anticipated impacts to the highway, the CP rail line, or other facilities from this prescribed fire. Further updates will be provided prior to and following ignition.

For more information:

We will provide updates as new information is available.

What’s happening?

Parks Canada fire crews are responding to a new wildfire in Glacier National Park. The fire is on the north side of Mount Smart and is visible along the Trans-Canada Highway across from Hemlock Grove Day Use Area. The fire is in rocky slopes on the mountain with little potential for fire spread. Parks Canada will continue to monitor the fire and take further action if required. The fire does not currently pose a risk to people or assets.

Parks Canada fire crews are actively managing four other wildfires in Mount Revelstoke and Glacier national parks.

Fire Danger rating is High to Very High in Mount Revelstoke and Glacier national parks. Parks Canada fire crews continue to monitor for new wildfires.

The safety of the public, our crews, infrastructure, and neighbouring lands is Parks Canada’s top priority. Parks Canada works closely with the BC Wildfire Service to monitor and manage wildfire risk in and around Mount Revelstoke and Glacier national parks.

Report any new wildfires, illegal campfires, or suspicious smoke to Dispatch at 877-852-3100.

What to expect

Glacier

The wildfire on Mount Smart and smoke from fires in the backcountry of the park may be visible from the Trans-Canada Highway, particularly at peak burn times, usually between 3:00 – 6:00 PM.

Campfires

National parks are always under a fire restriction with fires only permitted in designated metal fire pits. In Mount Revelstoke and Glacier national parks, this is exclusively in the front country campgrounds with the purchase of a fire permit.

Currently (August 10, 2022), no fire ban is in effect for Mount Revelstoke and Glacier national parks. Parks Canada’s fire management team is closely monitoring the situation and will implement a fire ban should conditions change. Fire bans in the national parks are based on localized conditions. Parks Canada does, however, work closely with BC Wildfire Service and includes provincial considerations and advice in decision making.

Background:

Mount Revelstoke and Glacier national parks received many lightning strikes during storms on July 29, August 1, and August 4. To date, the lightning has started six fires in the parks.

A wildfire on the west side of Mount Revelstoke was detected on the evening of July 31 approximately 2-km below the summit. The fire has been extinguished.

Parks Canada fire crews continue to monitor three wildfires in remote areas of the parks including Coursier Creek in Mount Revelstoke, and two in the Mount Carson – Wolverine Peak area of Glacier National Park, as well as one wildfire above the Rock Garden Trail and one across from Hemlock Grove in Glacier.

For more information:

We will provide updates as new information is available.

What’s happening?

Parks Canada fire crews are actively managing four wildfires in Mount Revelstoke and Glacier national parks. All fires are in remote areas and do not currently pose a risk to people or assets.

As of August 6, the Mountain Creek Wildfire is extinguished.

Fire Danger rating is High to Very High in Mount Revelstoke and Glacier national parks. Parks Canada fire crews continue to monitor for new wildfires.

The safety of the public, our crews, infrastructure, and neighbouring lands is Parks Canada’s top priority. Parks Canada works closely with the BC Wildfire Service to monitor and manage wildfire risk in and around Mount Revelstoke and Glacier national parks.

Report any new wildfires, illegal campfires, or suspicious smoke to Dispatch at 877-852-3100.

What to expect

Glacier

The wildfire above Rock Garden Trail and smoke from the other two fires may be visible from the Trans-Canada Highway, particularly at peak burn times, usually between 3:00 – 6:00 PM.

Campfires

National parks are always under a fire restriction with fires only permitted in designated metal fire pits. In Mount Revelstoke and Glacier national parks, this is exclusively in the front country campgrounds with the purchase of a fire permit.

Currently (August 10, 2022), no fire ban is in effect for Mount Revelstoke and Glacier national parks. Parks Canada’s fire management team is closely monitoring the situation and will implement a fire ban should conditions change. Fire bans in the national parks are based on localized conditions. Parks Canada does, however, work closely with BC Wildfire Service and includes provincial considerations and advice in decision making.

Background:

Mount Revelstoke and Glacier national parks received many lightning strikes during storms on July 29, August 1, and August 4. To date, the lightning has started five fires in the parks.

A wildfire on the west side of Mount Revelstoke was detected on the evening of July 31 approximately 2-km below the summit. The fire has been extinguished.

Parks Canada fire crews continue to monitor three wildfires in remote areas of the parks including Coursier Creek in Mount Revelstoke, and two in the Mount Carson – Wolverine Peak area of Glacier National Park, and one wildfire above the Rock Garden Trail in Glacier.

For more information:

We will provide updates as new information is available.

What’s happening?

Parks Canada fire crews are actively managing five wildfires in Mount Revelstoke and Glacier national parks. There is still potential for new wildfire starts from lightning strikes on August 1 and July 29.

Parks Canada is monitoring conditions on Mount Revelstoke daily with public safety as the top priority. Access to the upper Meadows in the Sky Parkway and Summit trails may change based on the level of risk. Fire Danger is expected to reach Very High to Extreme today. Risk of new wildfire starts increases at peak burn times, usually between 3:00 – 6:00 PM.

Parks Canada fire crews continue to monitor three wildfires in remote areas of the parks including Coursier Creek in Mount Revelstoke, and two in the Mount Carson – Wolverine Peak area of Glacier National Park, and one wildfire above the Rock Garden Trail in Glacier. These fires do not currently pose a risk to people or assets

The Mountain Creek wildfire in Glacier National Park is now classified as “under control”. Parks Canada crews continue to monitor the fire.

The safety of the public, our crews, infrastructure, and neighbouring lands is Parks Canada’s top priority. Parks Canada works closely with the BC Wildfire Service to monitor and manage wildfire risk in and around Mount Revelstoke and Glacier national parks. Fire crews are monitoring for new wildfire starts from storms on August 1 and July 29.

Report any new wildfires, illegal campfires, or suspicious smoke to Dispatch at 877-852-3100.

What to expect

Mount Revelstoke

Today, August 3, The Meadows in the Sky Parkway is open with modified hours:

• 8:00 AM – 3:45 PM Open to the Summit
• 3:45 PM – 8:00 PM Open to Columbia Viewpoint
• The Eva, jade and Miller Lakes trails are closed.

These closures will be re-evaluated today based on current wildfire activity, Fire Danger ratings, potential for new wildfire starts and the forecasted weather.

Glacier

The wildfire above Rock Garden Trail and smoke from the other two fires may be visible from the Trans-Canada Highway, particularly at peak burn times, usually between 3:00 – 6:00 PM.

Background:

On August 1, a storm system brought high winds and lightning but very little rain (0 – 10 mm across both parks). New lightning strikes were observed on the front face of Mount Revelstoke and along the Trans-Canada Highway corridor in Glacier.

Mount Revelstoke and Glacier national parks also received many lightning strikes during a storm on Friday, July 29. To date, the lightning has started five fires in the parks.

The wildfires in Coursier Creek in Mount Revelstoke, and the two in the Mount Carson – Wolverine Peak area of Glacier National Park, were all detected on July 29 following the storm.

A wildfire on the west side of Mount Revelstoke was detected on the evening of July 31 approximately 2-km below the summit. The fire has been extinguished.

The wildfire above Rock Garden Trail in Glacier National Park was detected on August 2.

For more information:

We will provide updates as new information is available.

What’s happening?

Parks Canada fire crews are actively managing five wildfires in Mount Revelstoke and Glacier national parks.

A new fire was discovered this morning above the Rock Garden Trail in Glacier National Park. Parks Canada fire crews continue to monitor three wildfires in remote areas of the park including Coursier Creek in Mount Revelstoke, and two in the Mount Carson – Wolverine Peak area of Glacier National Park. These fires do not currently pose a risk to people or assets.

The Mountain Creek wildfire in Glacier National Park is now classified as “under control”. Parks Canada crews continue to monitor the fire.

The safety of the public, our crews, infrastructure, and neighbouring lands is Parks Canada’s top priority. Parks Canada works closely with the BC Wildfire Service to monitor and manage wildfire risk in and around Mount Revelstoke and Glacier national parks. Fire crews are monitoring for new wildfire starts from storms on August 1 and July 29.

Report any new wildfires, illegal campfires, or suspicious smoke to Dispatch at 877-852-3100.

What to expect

Mount Revelstoke

The Meadows in the Sky Parkway, Summit Trail and Lindmark Trail are currently closed above Columbia Viewpoint. These closures will be re-evaluated today based on current wildfire activity, Fire Danger ratings, potential for new wildfire starts and the forecasted weather.

Glacier

Smoke from the wildfires may be visible from the Trans-Canada Highway, particularly at peak burn times, usually between 3:00 – 6:00 PM.

Background:

On August 1, a storm system brought high winds and lightning but very little rain (0 – 10 mm across both parks). New lightning strikes were observed on the front face of Mount Revelstoke and along the Trans-Canada Highway corridor in Glacier.

Mount Revelstoke and Glacier national parks also received many lightning strikes during a storm on Friday, July 29. To date, the lightning has started five fires in the parks.

The wildfires in Coursier Creek in Mount Revelstoke, and the two in the Mount Carson – Wolverine Peak area of Glacier National Park, were all detected on July 29 following the storm.

A wildfire on the west side of Mount Revelstoke was detected on the evening of July 31 approximately 2-km below the summit. The fire has been extinguished.

For more information:

We will provide updates as new information is available.

What’s happening?

Parks Canada fire crews are actively managing five wildfires in Mount Revelstoke and Glacier national parks.

The fire on the west side of Mount Revelstoke has been extinguished. A big thank you to the BC Wildfire Service Rapattack crew for their quick work on this fire.

Parks Canada fire crews are monitoring three wildfires in remote areas of the park including Coursier Creek in Mount Revelstoke, and two in the Mount Carson – Wolverine Peak area of Glacier National Park. These fires do not currently pose a risk to people or assets.

The Mountain Creek wildfire in Glacier National Park is now classified as “under control”. Parks Canada crews continue to monitor the fire.

Fire Danger rating is Very High in Mount Revelstoke and Extreme in Glacier National Park. Parks Canada fire crews continue to monitor for new wildfires.

The safety of the public, our crews, infrastructure, and neighbouring lands is Parks Canada’s top priority. Parks Canada works closely with the BC Wildfire Service to monitor and manage wildfire risk in and around Mount Revelstoke and Glacier national parks.

Report any new wildfires, illegal campfires, or suspicious smoke to Dispatch at 877-852-3100.

What to expect

Mount Revelstoke

Due to the wildfire near the summit of Mount Revelstoke, the Meadows in the Sky Parkway and the Summit Trail were closed above Monashee Viewpoint, and the Lindmark Trail was closed. These closures will be re-evaluated daily based on current wildfire status, Fire Danger ratings, new wildfire starts and the forecasted weather, particularly lightning.

Glacier

Smoke from the wildfires may be visible from the Trans-Canada Highway, particularly at peak burn times, usually between 3:00 – 6:00 PM.

Background:

Mount Revelstoke and Glacier national parks received many lightning strikes during a storm on Friday, July 29. To date, the lightning has started four fires in the parks.

The wildfires in Coursier Creek in Mount Revelstoke, and the two in the Mount Carson – Wolverine Peak area of Glacier National Park, were all detected on July 29 following the storm.

The wildfire on the west side of Mount Revelstoke was detected on the evening of July 31, approximately 2-km below the summit. The fire was in steep technical terrain. Today, a BC Wildfire Service Rapattack fire crew was dispatched to the fire. A rapattack crew is a team trained in rappelling from a helicopter to access areas like this that are inaccessible on foot or by vehicle, and have no suitable helicopter landing sites.

For more information:

We will provide updates as new information is available.

What’s happening?

Parks Canada fire crews are actively managing five wildfires in Mount Revelstoke and Glacier national parks.

On the evening of July 31, a fire was discovered on the west side of Mount Revelstoke approximately 2-km below the summit. The fire is in steep technical terrain. Today, a BC Wildfire Service Rapattack fire crew will assess the fire for fire suppression actions. A rapattack crew is a team trained in rappelling from helicopter to access areas like this that is inaccessible on foot or by vehicle, and have no suitable helicopter landing sites.

Three of the wildfires are in remote areas of the park including Coursier Creek in Mount Revelstoke, and two in the Mount Carson – Wolverine Peak area of Glacier National Park. These fires do not currently pose a risk to people or assets.

The Mountain Creek wildfire in Glacier National Park is now classified as “under control”. Parks Canada crews continue to monitor the fire.

Fire Danger rating is Very High in Mount Revelstoke and Glacier National Parks. Both parks received a large number of lightning strikes during a storm on Friday, July 29. Parks Canada fire crews continue to monitor for new wildfires.

The safety of the public, our crews, infrastructure, and neighbouring lands is Parks Canada’s top priority. Parks Canada works closely with the BC Wildfire Service to monitor and manage wildfire risk in and around Mount Revelstoke and Glacier national parks.

Report any new wildfires, illegal campfires, or suspicious smoke to Dispatch at 877-852-3100.

What to expect

Mount Revelstoke

Due to the wildfire near the summit of Mount Revelstoke, the Meadows in the Sky Parkway and the Summit Trail will be closed above Monashee Viewpoint until further notice. The Lindmark Trail will also be closed.

Glacier

Smoke from the wildfires may be visible from the Trans-Canada Highway, particularly at peak burn times, usually between 3:00 – 6:00 PM.

For more information:

We will provide updates as new information is available.

What’s happening?

This morning, July 29, lightning strikes resulted in multiple fire starts across the province of British Columbia including: one on Mount Dickey in Mount Revelstoke National Park and two in the Mount Carson – Wolverine Peak area of Glacier National Park. These wildfires are all in remote areas of the parks and do not currently pose a risk to people or assets. Parks Canada fire crews are actively managing these fires and continue to monitor for new wildfires.

The Mountain Creek wildfire in Glacier National Park is now classified as “under control”. Parks Canada crews continue to monitor the fire.

Fire Danger ratings are expected to reach Very High to Extreme in Mount Revelstoke and Glacier National Parks over the weekend. Please use extra caution.

The safety of the public, our crews, infrastructure, and neighbouring lands is Parks Canada’s top priority. Parks Canada works closely with the BC Wildfire Service to monitor and manage wildfire risk in and around Mount Revelstoke and Glacier national parks.

Report any new wildfires, illegal campfires, or suspicious smoke to Dispatch at 877-852-3100.

For more information:

We will provide updates as new information is available.

What’s happening?

Today, Parks Canada fire crews are focused on mop up of the Mountain Creek wildfire in Glacier National Park. No, they’re not pushing mops with buckets of soapy water, but they might be swinging Pulaskis (an axe-like tool with two cutting blades) or bucketing water by helicopter! Mop up involves hard physical labour to fully extinguish the fire. Working inward from the fire perimeter, fire crews look for smoke or hot spots then dig up burning roots and vegetation, fell fire damaged trees, or chop up burning logs, and douse everything with water. Fire crews will complete mop up and continue monitoring the area for hot spots before declaring a wildfire extinguished.

With increasing Fire Danger this week, a Parks Canada fire crew is on standby as Initial Attack, to respond quickly in the event of a new wildfire start. The safety of the public, our crews, infrastructure, and neighbouring lands is Parks Canada’s top priority. Parks Canada works closely with the BC Wildfire Service to monitor and manage wildfire risk in and around Mount Revelstoke and Glacier national parks.

Report any new wildfires, illegal campfires, or suspicious smoke to Dispatch at 877-852-3100.

Background

On Sunday, July 24, a wildfire was detected in the Mountain Creek area of Glacier National Park. Fire suppression actions over the last few days have been successful. Parks Canada is leading the wildfire response with fire crews on the ground and helicopter support. Canadian Pacific fire crews have been actively involved in fire suppression as the fire is adjacent to two rail lines running through the park. On Monday, a team of six BC Wildfire Service water skimmers provided valuable fire suppression support to limit further fire spread.

What to expect

The wildfires, smoke, and fire suppression activities may be visible from the Trans-Canada Highway. For your safety, please stop only in designated pull-offs or day use areas along the highway.

Fire Danger

With ongoing hot and dry conditions, Fire Danger ratings are expected to reach Very High to Extreme in Mount Revelstoke and Glacier National Parks this week. Fire danger is an index that tells us how easily a fire could start, how difficult a fire may be to control and how long a fire might burn.

Remember:

• In national parks, you may only build a campfire in a designated fire pit.
• Never leave a flame unattended.
• Use equipment that is CSA or UL certified.
• Do not throw cigarettes or other butts on the ground. Put them out and discard in a bin.
• Always check if there’s a Parks Canada fire ban in place.

For more information:

We will provide updates as new information is available. Fire updates including a new interactive map can be found here: The fire information page under visitor safety on the Mount Revelstoke and Glacier national parks webpages.

What’s happening?

Over the last few days, Parks Canada, Canadian Pacific and BC Wildfire Service have collaborated on managing a wildfire in the Mountain Creek area of Glacier National Park. The fire is now classified as “being held”. This means that given current fire response resources as well as current and forecasted weather conditions, the fire is not likely to spread beyond pre-defined boundaries.

Today, Parks Canada and Canadian Pacific fire crews continue work on the ground. Fire suppression along the outer edge of the fire is the priority, working inward to further secure the perimeter. The Parks Canada team includes two four-person crews from Mount Revelstoke and Glacier national parks, and one four-person crew from Yoho and Kootenay national parks.

With increasing Fire Danger this week, a Parks Canada fire crew is on standby as Initial Attack, to respond quickly in the event of a new wildfire start. The safety of the public, our crews, infrastructure, and neighbouring lands is Parks Canada’s top priority. Parks Canada works closely with the BC Wildfire Service to monitor and manage wildfire risk in and around Mount Revelstoke and Glacier national parks.

Report any new wildfires, illegal campfires, or suspicious smoke to Dispatch at 877-852-3100.

Background

On Sunday, July 24, a wildfire was detected in the Mountain Creek area of Glacier National Park. Fire suppression actions over the last few days have been successful. Parks Canada is leading the wildfire response with fire crews on the ground and helicopter support. Canadian Pacific fire crews have been actively involved in fire suppression as the fire is adjacent to two rail lines running through the park. On Monday, a team of six BC Wildfire Service water skimmers provided valuable fire suppression support to limit further fire spread.

What to expect

The wildfires, smoke, and fire suppression activities may be visible from the Trans-Canada Highway. For your safety, please stop only in designated pull-offs or day use areas along the highway.

Fire Danger

With ongoing hot and dry conditions, Fire Danger ratings are expected to reach Very High to Extreme in Mount Revelstoke and Glacier National Parks this week. Fire danger is an index that tells us how easily a fire could start, how difficult a fire may be to control and how long a fire might burn.

Remember:

• In national parks, you may only build a campfire in a designated fire pit.
• Never leave a flame unattended.
• Use equipment that is CSA or UL certified. Look for the symbols.
• Do not throw cigarettes or other butts on the ground. Put them out and discard in a bin.
• Always check if there’s a Parks Canada fire ban in place.

For more information:

We will provide updates as new information is available.

What’s happening?

On Monday, July 25, Parks Canada, Canadian Pacific and BC Wildfire Service collaborated on managing a wildfire in the Mountain Creek area of Glacier National Park. Weather conditions were favourable to minimize fire growth, with cloud cover and low winds, and support fire suppression actions.

• Parks Canada fire crews worked on the ground, laying fire hose around the perimeter to minimize fire spread.
• Canadian Pacific fire crews worked on fire protection along the rail line and suppressed two spot fires between the tracks.
• BC Wildfire Service aviation support was requested, and the fire was assessed as a priority target. A team of six water skimmers were dispatched to provide support to fire crews by dropping large amounts of water on the fire in a short time.

Today, Parks Canada and Canadian Pacific fire crews continue work on the ground to maintain the fire perimeter and extinguish hot spots. A helicopter is available for moving crews in the remote landscape and bucketing if required.

The safety of the public, our crews, infrastructure, and neighbouring lands is Parks Canada’s top priority. Parks Canada works closely with the BC Wildfire Service to monitor and manage wildfire risk in and around Mount Revelstoke and Glacier national parks. Crews continue to monitor the parks for new wildfires and are ready with the resources to respond quickly.

Report any new wildfires, illegal campfires, or suspicious smoke to Dispatch at 877-852-3100.

Background

On Sunday, July 24, a wildfire was detected in the Mountain Creek area of Glacier National Park. Action was taken that afternoon and yesterday to suppress the fire and efforts continue today. Parks Canada is leading the wildfire response with fire crews on the ground and helicopter support. Canadian Pacific fire crews have been actively supporting fire suppression as the fire is adjacent to two rail lines running through Glacier National Park.

On Monday, a team of six BC Wildfire Service water skimmers provided valuable fire suppression support to limit further fire spread. These aircraft can scoop up to 3,025 litres of water each in just 15 seconds. They work in groups of four or more to continuously drop water on active hot spots.

What to expect

The wildfires, smoke, and fire suppression activities may be visible from the Trans-Canada Highway. For your safety, please stop only in designated pull-offs or day use areas along the highway.

Fire Danger

With ongoing hot and dry conditions, Fire Danger ratings are expected to reach Very High to Extreme in Mount Revelstoke and Glacier National Parks this week. Fire danger is an index that tells us how easily a fire could start, how difficult a fire may be to control and how long a fire might burn. Remember: in national parks, you may only build a campfire in a designated fire pit and with the purchase of a fire permit. Always check if there’s a Parks Canada fire ban in place.

For more information:

We will provide updates as new information is available. Fire updates including a new interactive map can be found on the fire information page under visitor safety on the Mount Revelstoke and Glacier national parks webpages.

Interested in water skimmers? Check out this BCWS video: Meet the fleet – water skimmers.

What’s happening?

On Sunday, July 24, a wildfire was detected in the Mountain Creek area of Glacier National Park. Immediate action was taken to suppress the fire using a helicopter to bucket water. Today, Parks Canada fire crews, in collaboration with BC Wildfire Service and Canadian Pacific Railway, will continue active fire suppression.

The fire does not currently pose a risk to people or assets.

The safety of the public, our crews, infrastructure and neighbouring lands is Parks Canada’s top priority. Parks Canada works closely with the BC Wildfire Service to monitor and manage wildfire risk in and around Mount Revelstoke and Glacier national parks. Crews continue to monitor the parks for new wildfires and are ready with the resources to respond quickly.

Report any new wildfires, illegal campfires, or suspicious smoke to Dispatch at 877-852-3100.

What to expect

The wildfires, smoke, and fire suppression activities may be visible from the Trans-Canada Highway. For your safety, please stop only in designated pull offs or day use areas along the highway.

Campfire reminder:

In national parks, you may only build a campfire in a designated fire pit and with the purchase of a fire permit. Always check if there’s a Parks Canada fire ban in place.

For more information:

We will provide updates as new information is available.

What’s happening?

Parks Canada fire crews continue to focus on wildfire risk reduction activities in Mount Revelstoke and Glacier national parks. Over the next few weeks, crews will undertake several burning projects as conditions allow, including:

• Illecillewaet Campground (Glacier): burning woody debris piles from hazard tree removal in the north loop of the campground.
• Near Caribou Cabin (Mount Revelstoke): burning woody debris piles from clearing of vegetation.
• Lower slopes of Mount Revelstoke: Continued burning of woody debris piles. Prescribed fire may also be used to burn off surface fuels if conditions allow.

What to expect

Glacier National Park

• Starting this week, when conditions allow, small debris piles from hazard tree removal will be burned in the north loop of Illecillewaet Campground. The remainder of the campground will stay open. Temporary closures may be put in place in other areas while crews and equipment are working. Visitors can expect to hear crews working during the day and may smell smoke. Smoke may be visible along the Trans-Canada Highway.

Mount Revelstoke National Park

• Over the next few weeks, smoke may be visible along Mount Revelstoke when weather conditions allow for brush pile burning. The Meadows in the Sky Parkway will remain open. Drivers are asked watch for crews working and to refrain from pulling over.

Why?

Through safe and effective fire management, we are reducing the risk of wildfire to the public, infrastructure, and neighbouring lands while improving the ecological health of our forests.

Glacier National Park

• A spruce beetle outbreak in Glacier National Park over the last seven years has left thousands of trees dead or dying in the Rogers Pass corridor of the park. After hazard tree removal in Illecillewaet Campground, remaining woody debris will be burned to reduce the risk of wildfire.

Mount Revelstoke National Park

• Near Caribou Cabin: Maintenance work at the Caribou weather station site has produced woody debris piles. These will be burned to clean-up the site and reduce the risk of wildfire. Weather stations collect data that support wildfire preparedness.
• Lower slopes of Mount Revelstoke: Reducing forest fuels in this area of Mount Revelstoke National Park contributes to wildfire risk reduction in and around the City of Revelstoke.

Campfires

In national parks, fires are only allowed in designated fire boxes. In campgrounds the purchase of a fire permit is required. Always check if there’s a Parks Canada fire ban in place.

For more information

Fire updates including a new interactive map can be found here: The fire information page under visitor safety on the Mount Revelstoke and Glacier national parks webpages.

What's happening?

Parks Canada fire crews continue to focus on wildfire risk reduction activities and hazard tree removal in both Mount Revelstoke and Glacier national parks. This may include temporary area closures for public safety and brush pile burning. If conditions allow, prescribed fire will be used to burn off the surface fuels on the lower slopes of Mount Revelstoke.

Why?

Through safe and effective fire management, we are reducing the risk of wildfire to the public, infrastructure, and neighbouring lands while improving the ecological health of our forests.

Mount Revelstoke National Park

Reducing forest fuels in this area of Mount Revelstoke National Park contributes to wildfire risk reduction in and around the City of Revelstoke.

Glacier National Park

A spruce beetle outbreak in Glacier National Park over the last seven years has left thousands of trees dead or dying in the Rogers Pass corridor of the park. Insect outbreaks are the main source of natural disturbance in the interior rainforest. By attacking older, less healthy trees, they open up the forest canopy, encouraging new growth and improving forest health. In this case, the number of trees affected and location of the outbreak in Rogers Pass poses a public safety risk, and significant hazard tree removal work continues in Glacier National Park to mitigate the risk.

Most of the felled trees are being removed as leaving them could contribute to ongoing insect outbreak issues and/or increased wildfire risk. Woody debris from hazard tree removal is being piled up and burned.

What to expect:

Mount Revelstoke National Park

Smoke may be visible along the lower slopes of Mount Revelstoke over the next few weeks when weather conditions allow for brush pile burning. Visitor safety is of the utmost importance for Parks Canada. The Meadows in the Sky Parkway will remain open. Watch for crews working along the road.

Glacier National Park

Smoke may be visible throughout Glacier National Park and specifically along the Trans-Canada Highway. For public safety, a closure is in place at Hemlock Grove Day Use Area until crews and equipment can be brought in to take down very large danger trees. Temporary closures may be put in place in other areas while crews and equipment are working.

For more information:

Fire updates including a new interactive map can be found here: fire information under visitor safety on the Mount Revelstoke and Glacier national parks webpages.

What's happening?

Parks Canada fire crews continue wildfire risk reduction activities along the lower slopes of Mount Revelstoke including brush pile burning near the Meadows in the Sky Parkway. If conditions allow, prescribed fire will be used to burn off the surface fuels within the fireguard area.

Why?

Through safe and effective fire management, we are reducing the risk of wildfire to the public, infrastructure, and neighbouring lands while improving the ecological health of our forests. Reducing forest fuels in this area in Mount Revelstoke National Park contributes to wildfire risk reduction actions in and around the City of Revelstoke by completing a section of the community fire guard surrounding the city.

What to expect:

Smoke may be visible along the lower slopes of Mount Revelstoke over the next few weeks when weather conditions allow for brush pile burning. Visitor safety is of the utmost importance for Parks Canada. The Meadows in the Sky Parkway will remain open. Watch for crews working along the road.

For more information:

Fire updates including a new interactive map can be found here: fire information under visitor safety on the Mount Revelstoke and Glacier national parks webpages.

What's happening?

While most of Mount Revelstoke and Glacier national parks remain snowbound, fire season is upon us in the valley. Parks Canada’s fire management team works closely with BC Wildfire Service and the neighbouring communities of Revelstoke and Golden, on wildfire preparedness, response and risk reduction in and around the national parks.

Want to know more? Visit us at the Revelstoke LFI Farmers’ Market on May 7 between 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM. (First Street East between Mackenzie Ave and Orton Ave).

Wildfire preparedness

Based on weather data and fire danger ratings, the fire management team monitors for wildfire starts and is prepared to respond. Parks Canada has two four-person Initial Attack crews stationed in Revelstoke, as part of the Mount Revelstoke and Glacier national parks fire management team, ready to respond to in-park and regional wildfire starts.

Highly trained fire management personnel, from within the Mount Revelstoke and Glacier fire program and in other park functions, contribute to local wildfire preparedness. Whether as wildland fire fighters or members of a Parks Canada National Incident Management Team, they also support wildfire response within other national parks across Canada, or provincial/territorial wildfire response in partnership with the Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Centre.

Prescribed fire and wildfire risk reduction

The fire management team is working on a number of wildfire risk reduction projects in Mount Revelstoke and Glacier national parks. This includes preparations for several potential prescribed fires in both parks. Prescribed fires are only conducted under specific conditions (e.g. weather, moisture, wind direction, supporting resources, etc.) and will only go forward when the safety of the public, our crews, infrastructure and neighbouring lands can be assured.

What to expect in 2022:

Lower slopes, Mount Revelstoke National Park: Work will continue on the lower slopes of Mount Revelstoke to strengthen a section of the Revelstoke Community fire guard that runs through the park. Brush pile burning will begin once the area has dried out. If conditions allow this spring, prescribed fire will be used to burn off the surface fuels within the fireguard area.

Hazard tree removal, Glacier National Park: Parks Canada continues to address the public safety and wildfire risk in the Rogers Pass corridor from an ongoing spruce beetle outbreak.

• Hazard tree removal will take place in Illecillewaet Campground this spring once snow recedes and there is no longer an avalanche risk in the area.
• In late May or early June, brush pile burning will take place in the Rogers Pass area to manage the remaining woody debris from tree removal.

Other potential prescribed fires: planning and preparations are complete for several prescribed fires in Mount Revelstoke and Glacier national parks to reduce wildfire risk, restore wildlife habitat and/or improve forest health.

It can take years to get the right “prescription” to light a prescribed fire. The specific conditions needed include: current and forecasted weather; wind speed and direction; moisture content in the trees, soil and air; natural or man-made barriers (fire guards) in place to limit fire spread; availability of resources; and consideration of the impacts on visitors and neighbouring communities.

Having plans in place and maintaining on the ground preparations ensures that if the right conditions are achieved, Parks Canada fire management teams are ready to proceed at short notice. Any one of the following prescribed fires could proceed this year should conditions allow.

• Glacier National Park: 20-Mile prescribed fire in the Beaver Valley area and Flat Creek prescribed fire at the west end of the park.
• Mount Revelstoke National Park: Parkway Bend prescribed fire, a continuation of work completed in 2020, and Lindmark prescribed fire near the Parkway Bend site to support completion of a fire break on the front face of the mountain.