Fraser Canyon resort closes due to evacuation order as area fire rages

FRASER CANYON – A popular resort in the Fraser Canyon has closed its campsite as the out-of-control Brunswick Creek wildfire has grown to over 1,200 hectares.

Blue Lake Resort, a lakeside camping and cabin resort located roughly 50 minutes north of Hope, announced on social media Sunday (July 5) that it has been given an evacuation order by the Fraser Valley Regional District due to the nearby wildfires, the largest of which is now 1,230 hectares in size.

Location of Blue Lake Resort (red pin). (Image Credit: Google Maps.)

The resort says refunds will be issued in time to all bookings affected.

Another business, Old Towne Inne Chuckwagon Bar & Grill at 47555 Trans Canada Highway in Boston Bar, wrote on Sunday morning that it would close to ensure the safety of its staff.

Old Towne Inne Chuckwagon Bar & Grill. (Image Credit: Old Towne Inne Chuckwagon Bar & Grill.)

The restaurant said some of its employees and team members were currently under an evacuation notice while others remained on evacuation alert.

Location of Old Towne Inn Chuckwagon Bar & Grill. (Image Credit: Google Maps.)

“We appreciate your understanding and support during this difficult time. Our thoughts are with everyone affected and we hope for everyone’s safety,” Old Towne Inn Chuckwagon Bar & Grill said. “We’ll keep you posted when we feel it’s safe to bring our staff back to work.”

The restaurant has since indicated it will be operating from 11:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. today (Monday, July 6).

“Please be advised that our staff is minimized, and we appreciate your patience in advance. Thank you,” the restaurant said.

At least one business in the Fraser Canyon is doing what it can to assist people impacted by the evacuation orders or alerts. The Gridlock RV Campground at 28445 Trans Canada Highway near Emory Creek Campground and Squeah is welcoming all Boston Bar evacuees.

All RV fees are being waived, according to a post from Kelly Mackie in a Hope-area Facebook group.