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Slow Progress On Wildfire In Glacier National Park

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Published Date

August 3, 2015
Reynolds Creek Fire at Glacier National Park/NPS

Progress is being made on the Reynolds Creek Fire in Glacier National Park, albeit slowly/NPS

A rugged landscape, ample fuels, and poor firefighting weather conditions are making it tough for crews to make much headway on the Reynolds Creek Fire in Glacier National Park, which continues to keep the Going-to-the-Sun Road closed from the St. Mary Campground on the park's eastern boundary to Logan Pass.

Containment lines had been scratched around 67 percent of the fire as of Monday morning, and 71 miles of fire hose laid to help fight the flames, according to reports. 

"The Going-to-the-Sun Road corridor continues to be a hazardous area. The fire is still burning in close proximity to the road," a release said. "Unburned trees near the road remain and have the potential to burn. Additionally, fifteen to twenty fire weakened trees were identified adjacent to the road yesterday and have been removed."

Monday's forecast called for warmer temperatures with a slight chance of afternoon and evening thunderstorms. An approaching cold front could bring light rain and winds gusting to 40 mph to the park.

Authorities have been investigating the possibility that the fire, which so far has cost $8.3 million to fight since it was spotted July 21, was caused by campers.

The Rising Sun Motor Inn and the Rising Sun Campground remain closed. The Going-to-the-Sun Road was open to Logan Pass from the west side of the park. Visitors should continue to expect delays and congestion along the road. The Red Eagle drainage was open for hiking access to Red Eagle Lake, Triple Divide, and the beaver ponds. The Sperry Trail is open from Lake McDonald Lodge to Gunsight Pass. Any travel beyond Gunsight Pass is closed due to fire activity. The Lake Ellen Wilson backcountry site is open.

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