Colorado Updates:
Fire at Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park Partially Contained, South Rim Reopens in Phases
A wildfire named the South Rim fire, sparked by multiple lightning strikes during a severe thunderstorm on July 10, has been burning in Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Colorado, since early July. The fire has burned approximately 4,232 acres, causing significant damage to the South Rim area, including the South Rim Campground, several park structures, bathrooms, and overlook infrastructure.
As of mid-August, the fire is about 52% contained. However, total containment remains challenging due to steep, difficult terrain where the fire continues to spread. The South Rim Visitor Center was saved, but much of the popular South Rim remains closed or has limited access due to damage and ongoing fire risks.
The North Rim of the park, which was less affected, reopened to the public on July 30 and is operating normally. In a positive development, the South Rim began a phased reopening on August 18, allowing access to the South Rim Road, visitor center, Tomichi and Gunnison Point overlooks, and the park store. However, campgrounds and many trails remain closed for restoration and safety reasons. Full containment and reopening of all areas may not occur until after the first snowfall.
The park was initially closed, with indefinite closure for the South Rim during firefighting and recovery efforts. Continued fire management and restoration work is ongoing given the difficult terrain and extent of damage.
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As of July 31, firefighting operations were ongoing at the park. The exact date for the reopening of the North Rim was July 31, but no specific information was provided about the current status of the firefighting operations on the South Rim.
- In the midst of the ongoing South Rim fire, which has significantly impacted Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, new policies regarding park structures and amenities are being implemented, with the South Rim Visitor Center and certain overlooks being reopened in a phased manner.
- As the South Rim fire continues to burn, affecting the national park's policy regarding park accessibility, it's crucial for residents and tourists to stay informed about the latest developments, including the phased reopening of certain areas, by subscribing to Mile High Roundup, a service delivering Colorado's top stories straight to their inboxes.
