Outdoor Fire Safety

Some fires are small and remote, while others have greater effects on park visitors.

Wildfire is a natural and important part of Glacier's ecology, but it can pose a threat to human life and property. How can I stay safe during fire season?

• Before going hiking or camping, check with public land management agencies for fire restrictions or area closures.
• Plan ahead and prepare—know your route, let someone else know where you are going and when you plan to get back, and bring a map in case you need to find an alternate route.
• If you have a campfire, make sure it is fully extinguished before leaving the area—be sure it is fully doused and cold to the touch.
• If you are using a portable stove, make sure your cooking area is clear of grasses and other fine fuels. Prevent stoves from tipping and starting a fire.
• Consider alternatives to campfires during periods of high fire danger.
• Practice Leave No Trace principles—pack out cigarette butts and burned materials from your camping area.
• Be aware of sudden changes in the weather or changing weather conditions. For example, if you see a thunderstorm approaching, consider leaving the area.
• If you see smoke, fire, or suspicious activities, note the location as best you can and report it to authorities. Do NOT attempt to contact suspicious people or try to put out a fire by yourself.
• If you see a wildland fire, report its location. Avoid traveling near it.
• Be careful of parking or driving your vehicle in tall, dry, vegetation, such as grass. The hot underside of the vehicle may start a fire.

 

The park initiates fire restrictions as conditions arise to reduce the likelihood of human-caused ignitions. What do I need to know about fire restrictions?

Are there restrictions currently in effect?

The goal of fire restrictions is to reduce the possibility of accidental human-caused fires during times of high fire danger. At all times, Glacier operates under some fire regulations, including:

• Fires must be kept in designated areas and attended at all times.
• Fireworks are prohibited.
• Not all of Glacier's backcountry campgrounds allow fires.

What do the different "stages" mean?

Stage 1

• Campfires are not allowed.
• Use of wood or charcoal grills is not allowed.
• Propane or white gas stoves with an on/off switch are permitted.
• Smoking is prohibited, except within an enclosed vehicle or building, a developed recreation site, or while stopped in an area at least three feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable materials.

Stage 2

• All of the Stage I restrictions, plus:
• The following acts are prohibited between 1:00 pm and 1:00 am every day, and a one-hour foot patrol is required after the cessation of all activities including:
  • Operating any internal combustion engine (except generators with a spark arrestor within an enclosed vehicle or area cleared of flammable material)
  • Welding or operating torches with an open flame
  • Using explosives
• Operating motorized vehicles off designated roads and trails.

 

Despite being a necessary part of nature, living with wildfire can be challenging. How can I enjoy my visit during wildfire season?

Whether you see fire and smoke, closed roads and trails, or recently burned forests, wildfire may be part of your experience in Glacier. This is especially true during the dry summer days of mid-July through mid‑September. Use these tips to enjoy your Glacier trip despite the smoke.

First, consider your health and try to limit your exposure to smoke. Choose less strenuous activities, and understand that children and the elderly are particularly sensitive to poor air quality.

Second, time it right. On smoky days, views of scenery will often be better just after sunrise and worse by midday. That said, it can vary widely throughout the day depending on local conditions. Check visibility on our webcams! You can also find current air quality data for West Glacier and St. Mary on our Current Fire Information page, or visit fire.airnow.gov to check air quality anywhere in the nation.

Third, when the grand vistas are too smoky, visit a historic lodge, hike to a waterfall, or seek other “close-ups” of Glacier’s beauty.

 

Smoke in Apgar Village

Left image
Lake McDonald beach in Apgar Village on a clear July day in 2019.

Right image
Lake McDonald beach in Apgar Village on a smoky August day in 2018.

 

Smoke from the Apgar Boat Dock

Left image
Lake McDonald beach in Apgar Village on a clear July day in 2019.

Right image
Lake McDonald beach in Apgar Village on a smoky August day in 2018.