Pile burns planned in Bryce Canyon National Park

News Release Date: December 10, 2025
Contact: Kelly Mulligan, 435-834-5322
For Immediate Release

BRYCE, UT - Bryce Canyon National Park fire managers plan to conduct pile burning operations this winter and early spring as conditions allow. These pile burns are part of a 55-acre fuel reduction project to minimize wildfire risk and protect park infrastructure, in accordance with the park's fire management plan.

Over the last two years, Bryce Canyon National Park has partnered with the American Conservation Experience and the Utah Conservation Corps to selectively thin areas of dense vegetation that could contribute to high-intensity wildfire. Material from this selective thinning has been gathered into hand-built piles, which will be ignited when weather conditions are optimal.

It is difficult to predict exactly when the burning will occur because piles are only ignited under certain conditions, including favorable smoke dispersal and weather conditions that limit the chance of fire spread. Before any ignition, fire managers evaluate weather, wind, fuel moisture, and air quality to ensure operations meet strict safety and prescription standards.

Pile burns are planned along Highway 63 between the Bryce Canyon National Park entrance sign, the Bryce Canyon Visitor Center, and in the park's residential area. Smoke may be visible from viewpoints, roads, and neighboring communities, though impacts are expected to be minimal and short-lived. Updates will be provided via the park's social media accounts.

Public and firefighter safety is always the top priority in all fire operations. Visitors are encouraged to avoid areas where burn operations are occurring. Motorists should be aware of firefighting activity along roads and occasional smoke on or near roadways, as well as obeying posted speed limits. For more information, please contact [email protected].

Check https://www.nps.gov/brca/learn/news/newsreleases.htm for past releases.

-NPS-