Denali National Park and Preserve has restricted entrance access due to a rapidly growing wildfire, prompting evacuations and affecting thousands of visitors.
Table of Contents
Wildfire Overview
A wildfire, known as the Riley Fire, started near the entrance of Denali National Park and Preserve on Sunday afternoon. Initially covering 20 acres, the fire rapidly expanded to 350 acres by evening. The blaze, fueled by black spruce and driven by warm, dry conditions, is located near the Alaska Railroad and across the Nenana River from Mile 239 of the Parks Highway.
Immediate Impact and Evacuations
The rapid spread of the Riley Fire prompted immediate evacuations of campgrounds and employee housing. Denali National Park officials announced the suspension of operations in the entrance area starting Monday, with the park closed to day-use visitors and personal vehicles until further notice. Visitors staying at Riley Creek Campground and employees housed near the park entrance were evacuated to facilities in Healy.
Firefighting Efforts
Crews from the Bureau of Land Management Alaska Fire Service (BLM AFS) are leading the firefighting efforts. Around 50 firefighters, including 22 smokejumpers, are battling the blaze, supported by aircraft making water and retardant drops. The fire is reported to be “100% active,” growing rapidly but staying clear of the Glitter Gulch area, a popular destination for visitors.
The Golden Eagles Hotshot Crew from the Sycuan Indian Reservation, U.S. Forest Service Mill Creek Hotshots from California, and the Chester Helitack crew are among the teams arriving to assist in containment efforts. Their strategy involves using the railroad right-of-way and natural barriers to confine the fire, particularly on its northern and southern ends.
Weather Conditions and Forecast
After temperatures reached 70 degrees on Sunday, cooler weather is expected to aid firefighting efforts, with temperatures forecasted to be in the mid-60s and a chance of isolated afternoon thunderstorms. Westerly winds on Tuesday and wetter conditions later in the week could help slow the fire’s progress.
Impact on Visitors and Local Businesses
The closure of Denali National Park has affected thousands of visitors, many of whom had the park high on their travel itinerary. The fire also caused power outages in the Glitter Gulch area, impacting shops, restaurants, and lodging facilities. Lodges have been providing portable toilets and motorcoach bathrooms due to the lack of running water.
Tourism representatives report that many travelers had to shift their plans, with some extending their stays in Anchorage or rerouting to other destinations. The Alaska Railroad canceled trains ferrying cruise travelers to the park from Anchorage and Fairbanks, arranging alternative transportation via motorcoach.
Park Operations and Future Plans
Denali National Park officials announced that all visitor facilities and park operations at the entrance area would remain closed into Tuesday, with future dates to be assessed based on fire activity. The only buses operating will be camper buses picking up travelers heading east. Whether campground reservations will be honored depends on fire conditions.
The park is working closely with the Denali Borough and other partners to ensure the safety and well-being of evacuees and local residents. Temporary flight restrictions are in place to provide a safe environment for firefighting aircraft.
Broader Fire Activity in Alaska
The Riley Fire is part of a broader pattern of fire activity across Alaska, with other fires burning in the Mat-Su, Kenai Peninsula, and Interior regions. Fire crews are battling the Montana Creek Fire near Talkeetna, which grew from a quarter-acre to 172 acres, and the Tustumena Lake Fire on the Kenai Peninsula, reported at 55 acres.
In the Interior, the McDonald Fire remains active, covering more than 145,000 acres. Cooler weather and rain are expected to help slow these fires’ progress.
Conclusion
As fire crews continue to battle the Riley Fire near Denali National Park’s entrance, the park remains closed to ensure the safety of visitors and employees. Efforts are ongoing to contain the fire and minimize its impact on the park and surrounding communities. Visitors are encouraged to stay updated on park conditions and cooperate with evacuation and safety measures.
