News Release

Prescribed Burning Extended to May 1 - 30

News Release Date: April 30, 2026

Contact: DENA Public Affairs

Due to the heavy snow load this winter, Denali National Park and Preserve is extending prescribed burning of slash piles in the park entrance area to May 1 – 30 dependent on weather and conditions on site. The prescribed burns will take place in the first mile of Denali Park Road and will be monitored by staff until all piles are fully extinguished.

The slash burn piles are part of a wildfire protection project to reduce risk to park buildings and public areas in the event of a wildfire. The piles are strategically created to minimize harm to remaining vegetation and to allow fire ecology staff to study the effects of pile burning on forest plant communities.

Many of the piles are adjacent to roads and trails. Visitors are advised to use caution when traveling in the prescribed fire area. Smoke is also likely to be present along the park road and the Parks Highway. Please do not call to report smoke unless visibility is creating a hazard for motorists or pedestrians.

For questions or comments, contact 907-502-0330 or 907-242-4555.