A wildfire in Verdant Creek area of Kootenay National Park has led to an area closure in Kootenay and Banff national parks.

The area 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 in this area will be cancelled until further notice.

Parks Canada team members are currently evacuating backcountry campsites and trails in the area and are also contacting visitors with backcountry camping reservations in the area closure to advise them of the closure.

Individuals with backcountry reservations in the area closure should contact 403-762-1556 or visit a Parks Canada Visitor Centre.

Updates will be posted on Kootenay and Banff national parks' Important Bulletins

 

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