Wildfires in Alaska Force Cancellation of Denali Cruise Tours

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

According to updates from the park’s website, the fire was reported on Sunday, June 30. As of July 1 at 7:30 p.m., 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, causing park officials to keep the park closed Tuesday, July 2. Smokejumpers and fire crews, combined with strong support from aerial resources, have made significant progress, particularly along the fire’s southern flank.”

Cars have been turned away while public facilities—like the visitor’s center, trails, and campgrounds—have been temporarily shut down. Cruise lines’ shore excursions have also been affected. Train schedules that transport travelers from Anchorage and Fairbanks to Denali have been halted.

A notice from Princess Cruises to a travel agent with booked accommodations in the area reads, “We regret to inform you that a fire at Denali National Park has impacted operations at the Denali Wilderness Lodge, due to a loss of power and essential resources. Consequently, we must cancel the land portion of your upcoming cruise tour.”

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

350 Acres Razed

The interagency website, Alaska Wildland Fire Information, estimates that around 350 acres have been razed. Twenty-two smokejumpers and the Tanana Chiefs Type 2 Initial Attack fire crew are establishing a fire line. Firefighters and water-scooping planes are also on the scene.

More crews are expected to arrive and assist ongoing efforts. Collectively, about 50 people are working to put out the blaze.

Denali Chamber of Commerce Director Vanessa Jusczak assured a local media outlet that no one has been hurt. “I’m letting them know everyone is OK, but they don’t have power,” she informed Anchorage Daily News.

Officials believe the fire was caused by humans, though further investigations are pending.

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