News Release

Some Denali National Park Employees Currently Under Evacuation Orders due to Riley Fire

Smokejumpers arriving on scene in Denali National Park and Preserve to assist with the Riley Fire.

NPS Photo

News Release Date: June 30, 2024

Contact: Paul Ollig, 907-683-9531

Denali Park, AK – Evacuation orders are being issued for Denali National Park and partner employees residing in some housing areas near the park entrance. Visitors staying in the Riley Creek Campground, as well as residents living further west inside the park, are being informed to standby and be ready to evacuate if necessary. 

As of 5:15pm, the fire has grown to at least 350 acres. 

Smokejumpers on scene report the fire is quickly growing, but is still west of the Alaska Railroad and away from a commercial area at the Nenana River Canyon. The fire was reported as 100% active and moving northwest. Water scoopers, an air tanker and helicopters are working to keep the fire west of the railroad and away from populated areas. 

The Tanana Chief Fire Crew has arrived with 10 more smokejumpers to join the effort to suppress this fire; agencies involved in the initial response included the Alaska Division of Forestry & Fire Protection, Tri-Valley Volunteer Fire Department and the McKinley Village Volunteer Fire Department.

Stay informed about Alaska’s current wildfires, red flag warnings, and more by visiting https://akfireinfo.com. Additional photos and information can be found at Riley Fire Updates.