Outdoor Fire Safety

Families walk on a cobble beach and a wildland fire burns in the background across a lake.
Some fires are small and remote, while others have major impact on visitor use areas

Wildfire is a natural and important part of Glacier's ecology but it can pose a threat to human life and property.

  • Before going hiking or camping, check with public land management agencies for fire restrictions or area closures.
  • Plan ahead and prepare—know your route, sign in at the trailhead, let someone else know where you are going and be sure to know how to get out!
  • If you use a campfire, make sure it is fully extinguished before leaving the area—be sure it is cold to the touch.
  • If you are using a portable stove, make sure the area is clear of grasses and other fine fuels. Prevent stoves from tipping and starting a fire.
  • Consider alternatives to camp fires 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.
 

Fire managers institute fire restrictions whenever conditions call for them to reduce the likelihood of human-caused fires.

Are there restrictions currently in effect?

The goal of the restrictions is to reduce the possibility of accidental human-caused fire during times of high fire danger. At all times, Glacier operates under regulations similar to Stage I: Fires must be kept in designated areas and attended all times. Fireworks are prohibited. Not all of Glacier's backcountry campgrounds allow fires.

What do the different "stages" mean?

Stage 1

  • Use of wood or charcoal grills and propane or white gas stoves is permitted.
  • Campfires are allowed only in metal or concrete rings.
  • 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

  • Use of propane or white gas stoves is permitted.
  • Use of wood or charcoal grills is prohibited.
  • No campfires.
  • 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.
 

Despite being a necessary part of nature, living with wildfire can be challenging.

Whether you see fire and smoke, closed roads and trails, or recently burned forests, wildfire may be part of your park experience. This is especially true during the dry summer days of mid-July through mid‑September. The park works hard to prevent fires from ruining your visit, but emergency situations can develop. 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 smoke in the air.

Second, time it right. On smoky days, views of scenery will often be better just after sunrise and worse mid-day. Check visibility on our webcams!

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

People stand on a beach in sunny weather. People stand on a beach in sunny weather.

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

People stand on a beach in sunny weather. People stand on a beach in sunny weather.

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.

Last updated: July 29, 2022

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Mailing Address:

PO Box 128
West Glacier, MT 59936

Phone:

406-888-7800

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