Squamish Wildfire Held Monday: Hope Rises Amid Effort

By Elke Porter | WBN News Sea to Sky | June 16, 2025
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As of Monday, June 16, 2025, the Dryden Creek wildfire near Squamish, British Columbia, remains classified as "being held" at 59.5 hectares, a significant improvement from its earlier "out of control" status. Sparked on June 9, likely by human activity, the fire prompted a local state of emergency and the evacuation of Alice Lake Provincial Park, which remains closed.

Cooler, cloudy weather over the weekend, with temperatures around 17°C near the coast, has aided firefighting efforts, reducing fire behaviour to Rank 1—a smouldering ground fire with no open flame. The BC Wildfire Service (BCWS) reports that 57 firefighters, four tree fallers, and Squamish Fire Rescue personnel are working to extinguish hot spots and strengthen containment lines, supported by three helicopters and one piece of heavy equipment.

Conditions have improved, with evacuation alerts lifted for properties on Tantalus Road and the Skyridge subdivision, though 11 properties along Depot Road and Highway 99 remain on alert due to ongoing hazards like danger trees and rockfall. The fire’s stability has allowed the BC SPCA Sea to Sky to resume regular operations, and the District of Squamish has transitioned leadership to BCWS, signaling reduced immediate risk.

The public can help by adhering to the District of Squamish and Squamish Nation campfire bans, respecting trail and park closures, and following FireSmart BC guidelines to reduce property risks, such as clearing combustibles and using fire-resistant materials. Squamish Fire Rescue has urged residents to redirect food donations to local food banks to avoid waste.

Economically, the fire has disrupted tourism, with Alice Lake Provincial Park’s closure and reduced traffic on Highway 99 impacting local businesses. Accommodations hosting firefighters provide some economic offset, but prolonged closures could strain the region’s recreation-driven economy. Forecasted showers midweek may further aid containment, offering hope for recovery

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