Highway 3 closed between Hope and Manning Park due to wildfire activity

SUNSHINE VALLEY – Highway 3 connecting Sunshine Valley and Manning Park is now closed in both directions due to wildfire activity.

DriveBC reported at 8:01 p.m. Tuesday night (July 21) that the Crowsnest Highway is closed due to the 12-hectare Norwegian Creek wildfire, which is located inside E.C. Manning Provincial Park.

The fire was first discovered last Thursday, July 17. It is designated as out of control.

Location of Norwegian Creek wildfire. (Image Credit: BCWS.)

The BC Wildfire Service says smoke from this fire is burning near Highway 3 in Manning Park, causing the highway to be closed for public safety.

BCWS is asking motorists and anyone else to stay clear of active wildfire operations.

“The fire is not a threat to structures and is the result of a lightning event that passed through the area July 16,” BCWS said in a statement. “The fire is located in challenging terrain, which can limit access and influence suppression tactics.”

Ground crews continue to assess suppression options and develop contingency plans. BCWS says BC Parks is aware and apprised of the current situation.

“We will continue to monitor fire activity closely and provide updates as conditions change,” BCWS said.

The Coquihalla Highway is now the only alternate route available out of the Fraser Valley.

As a reminder, Highway 1 is closed between Hells Gate and Boston Bar.