Denali National Park Prohibits Open Fires in the Backcountry

AAI just received the following message from Denali National Park:

Effective immediately, Denali National Park and Preserve officials are prohibiting the use of open fires in the park’s backcountry areas, including the new park additions and preserve, due to the very high fire danger. Open fires are still allowed in established fire grates in the Riley Creek, Savage River, and Teklanika River Campgrounds. This order will be in effect until the weather and fire conditions change.

Hot and dry weather in the Interior has exacerbated the growth and start of fires. There are currently over 70 active fires burning in Alaska, including several in or near the park. Firefighting resources are stretched thin due to the current situation and visitors and residents are asked to assist fire managers by following fire prohibitions and preventing additional fire starts. Fires have burned close to three million acres in Alaska so far this season, making this the worst fire season since 2004.

Updated park information is posted on the web at www. nps.gov/dena. Information can also be obtained by calling (907) 683-2294 from 8:00 a.m. –4:30 p.m. daily.