Alaska wildfires force cancellation of Denali cruises

A cruise line has been forced to cancel land excursions in Alaska’s Denali National Park and Preserve due to a wildfire near the park entrance.

According to updates on the park’s website, the fire was reported on Sunday, June 30. As of 7:30 p.m. on July 1, efforts were still underway to contain and extinguish the Riley Fire.

Park officials reported in a recent update: “The Riley Fire continues to be active near the entrance to Denali National Park and Preserve, forcing park officials to keep the park closed Tuesday, July 2. Paratroopers and fire crews, combined with strong support from air resources, have made significant progress, particularly along the southern flank of the fire.”

Cars were turned away while public facilities, such as the visitor center, trails and campgrounds, were temporarily closed. Cruise line shore excursions were also affected. Train schedules that carry travelers from Anchorage and Fairbanks to Denali were disrupted.

A notice from Princess Cruises to a travel agent who booked accommodations in the area states: “We regret to inform you that a wildfire in Denali National Park has impacted operations at Denali Wilderness Lodge, due to a loss of power and critical resources. As a result, we must cancel the land portion of your upcoming cruise.”

The Riley Fire occurred during Denali’s peak tourist season. Due to the emergency, thousands of visitors were forced to cancel or change their plans.

350 acres razed

The interagency Alaska Wildland Fire Information website estimates that about 350 acres have been burned. Twenty-two paratroopers and the Tanana Chiefs Type 2 fire team are establishing a fire line. Firefighters and firefighting aircraft are also on scene.

More crews are expected to join the ongoing efforts. In total, about 50 people are working to extinguish the fire.

Denali Chamber of Commerce Director Vanessa Jusczak assured a local news outlet that no one was injured. “I let them know that everyone is OK, but they don’t have power,” she told the Anchorage Daily News.

Authorities believe the fire was started by humans, although further investigations are ongoing.

Last year’s Maui wildfires also impacted cruise itineraries, forcing several operators to avoid Lahaina and visit alternative destinations.