For many who’ve enjoyed hiking in Glacier National Park, The Sperry Chalet was an experience all its own. More akin to something you’d find in the alps, the structure is no more after the ongoing Sprague Fire grew rapidly yesterday, claiming the 104 year-old chalet.

According to an NPS release, fire fighting personnel tried everything to save the building but the blaze was just too strong. Known as abackcountry chalet,” the two-story chalet was home to a full service kitchen, bathroom w/ running water, and a pair of dormitory rooms.

“The Sprague Fire was reported the evening of August 10 and is burning above Crystal Ford on the Gunsight Pass Trail.”Glacier National Park Release

Firefighters used hoses in addition to the built-in sprinkler system but the fire made quick work of both. No firefighters were harmed in the fire fight. There are currently several active wildfires within the park’s boundaries. The structure was originally built by James J. Hill with the help of the Great Northern Railway in 1913.

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Glacier National Park Release

Thursday afternoon at approximately 6:00 pm, the main building at the Sperry Chalet was lost to the Sprague Fire. A highly skilled group of firefighters were staged at the Sperry Chalet over the last week. Those firefighters had an extensive hose lay, sprinkler, and pump system installed to protect all of the structures associated with the Chalet. The high winds experienced this afternoon pushed the fire to the east. The firefighters, supported by 3 helicopters, made a valiant stand to save the structure but were unsuccessful in saving the main Sperry Chalet. The firefighters remain on site, ARE SAFE, and are currently actively engaged in protecting the remaining structures. (DS)

Find updates on the Sprague Fire here: InciWeb

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