Starting today, the third most visited national park in the country will be moving to a complete fire ban within the park. Hot and dry conditions throughout Colorado have led to extreme fire danger in recent weeks. With more of the same in the forecast and the current level of fire activity in the state, Rocky Mountain National Park officials pulled the trigger on banning all fires within the park until further notice.
No campfires, no charcoal briquette fires, no exceptions. 9News reports smoking is also prohibited, except within an enclosed vehicle, or stopped within a developed paved area devoid of vegetation for at least three feet. Petroleum fueled stoves and grills will still be permitted in developed campgrounds, picnic areas, and in designated wilderness campsites. If you’re headed to RMNP over the weekend and are planning on roasting some smores….bring a the Coleman and make damned sure you keep a close eye on it.Â
OFFICIAL STATEMENT:
Due to the continued extreme fire danger, extended weather forecast, and current level of fire activity in the state of Colorado, park officials have announced a ban on all fires within Rocky Mountain National Park beginning Friday, August 14. The ban will remain in effect until further notice.
Campfires, including charcoal briquette fires, are not permitted anywhere within the park. However, petroleum fueled stoves and grills will still be permitted in developed campgrounds, picnic areas, and in designated wilderness campsites. Stoves must be able to be turned on and off. Smoking is also prohibited, except within an enclosed vehicle, or stopped within a developed paved area devoid of vegetation for at least three feet. Visitors are reminded to properly extinguish all lighted smoking materials and dispose of properly. Fireworks are always prohibited within the park.