Waterton wildfire update: No homes lost in townsite but Alpine Stables destroyed

No homes or businesses within the townsite were lost in the Waterton wildfire, but Alpine Stables and some other infrastructure inside the park were destroyed, Parks Canada said in a Friday update.

“Our thoughts are with the community members dealing with the devastating impact of this loss,” the agency said.

READ MORE: Waterton wildfire update: re-entry to park, townsite could take weeks 

The Visitor Centre was also lost in the fire and the East Gate Warden Station’s building, equipment and vehicles were also destroyed.

Parks Canada said Crandell Campground was “significantly impacted by fire.”

Residents of the Castle Mountain Resort area were allowed back into their homes Friday evening, according to the M.D. of Pincher Creek. People are reminded to be vigilant as fire is unpredictable.

Provincial Crown Land remains closed to the public, and people need permits to access that land. Previously issued permits will be honoured.

Electricity was also restored to the Twin Butte area as of 3 p.m. on Friday.

The M.D. said it is no longer accepting donations.

The Red Rock and Cameron Lake day-use areas and facilities, including the Alpine Club of Canada hut, have not been damaged due to fire. The Waterton Lakes Golf Course clubhouse sustained minor damage to the exterior.

For information on the current status of Alberta wildfires, click here. For B.C. wildfires, click here.

“Transmission lines from the park boundary to the townsite sustained significant damage,” Parks Canada said, adding it was working with Fortis to restore power.

Officials continue to work on a complete assessment of the damage caused by the fire.

“Due to the high intensity of the fire, there are a large number of danger trees, rock falls, and other hazards that remain throughout,” Parks Canada said. “Guardrails, signage and other minor infrastructure were heavily impacted.”

READ MORE: Waterton wildfire: Calgary firefighters ‘critical’ in battling blaze

However, the agency heralded firefighters for their “incredible efforts” and credited them with the fact that no homes or businesses within the townsite were lost.

The main Prince of Wales Hotel building was not impacted, but some surrounding facilities were damaged.

READ MORE: Waterton wildfire Wednesday: Townsite ‘not in jeopardy’ but 5 homes lost in M.D. of Pincher Creek 

The 36,000-hectare Kenow fire still remains active and was classified as out of control on Friday.

Officials said the fire did not demonstrate any further growth overnight.

The evacuation order remained in effect Friday and Waterton Lakes National Park remains closed. Even though the townsite is no longer under threat, risks due to the active fire nearby and ongoing fire operations remain. Community members should not attempt to return to the area.