Prescribed burn forces trail closures

SPRINGDALE, Washington County — A prescribed burn in Zion National Park on Wednesday caused the closure of four trails and filled the area along Kolob Terrace Road with smoke.

The fire was set intentionally on the west side of the park to "maintain the neutral role fire plays in this ecosystem," according to David Eaker, fire information and education specialist. The fire is also expected to maintain boundary protection and reduce hazardous fuels.

Dubbed the "Pine Valley Peak Prescribed Fire," Wednesday's blaze was originally scheduled for late September, but was postponed due to rain, Eaker said in a press release. It is expected to smolder for up to five days.

Closed are the Wildcat Canyon Trail, which leads to the Subway and Northgate Peaks trails, and the Hop Valley Connector Trail.

For more information on this and other prescribed fires, visit www.nps.gov/zion or www.utahfireinfo.gov.