Every aircraft in the state of Alaska that has a water tank has been activated to control a wildfire that is burning just inside the north entrance to Denali National Park and Preserve. The fire has forced evacuations of the Riley Creek Campground and prompted the closure of all visitor facilities and park operations in the entrance area.
The Riley Fire was first observed Sunday afternoon about a mile north of the park’s entrance where it was burning black spruce forest in steep terrain near the Alaska Railroad. The fire was estimated at 350 acres by Sunday evening. Park employees have been evacuated and being sheltered in the town of Healy. The park will remain closed to personal vehicles and day use visitors until further notice.
Denali National Park & Preserve News Release:
Evacuation orders have been issued for Denali National Park visitors staying in the Riley Creek Campground near the park entrance. All visitor facilities and park operations in Denali’s entrance area will be closed tomorrow, July 1.
The park will also continue to remain closed to personal vehicles and day use visitors until further notice. Employees evacuated from park housing are being sheltered in various facilities in the nearby town of Healy. Park officials continue to work closely with the Denali Borough and other partners to ensure everyone is taken care of.
Jumpers and crews on the ground will work through the night and are making progress. Four interagency hotshot crews are en route to assist. Firefighter and public safety remain the top priority.
Stay informed about Alaska’s current wildfires, red flag warnings, and more by visiting
https://akfireinfo.com and https://go.nps.gov/RileyFire
