News Release

Fire Discovered near the Park Entrance to Denali National Park and Preserve, Some Trails and Facilities Closed

A member of the fire crew makes their way to the front lines.

NPS Photo/Ollig

News Release Date: June 30, 2024

Contact: Paul Ollig, 907-683-9531

Denali Park, AK – At 12:30pm on Sunday, June 30, a fire was reported about one mile north of the entrance to Denali National Park and Preserve, west of milepost 239 Parks Highway. At this time, no structures are immediately threatened. Name the Riley Fire, it is burning in black spruce in steep terrain near the Alaska Railroad. 

A load of 12 smokejumpers were deployed to the fire via airplane and an additional load of 10 smokejumpers are traveling to the fire via ground transport. Four Fire Bosses, which are water-scooping aircraft, are on scene, two water scoopers and one retardant air tanker are enroute. 

As of 3:00pm, the fire is estimated to have grown to 300 acres.  

Tour and transit bus services have been discontinued westbound. Public front-country facilities and trails have been closed, including the Denali Visitor Center. Day use visitors currently west of the park entrance area are being shuttled eastward.  

This is an emerging situation. Additional details will be released as the incident progresses. Stay informed about Alaska’s current wildfires, red flag warnings, and more by visiting https://akfireinfo.com.