Fire in Zion Canyon is 20% contained

ZION NATIONAL PARK — The lightning-caused Cliff fire is 20 percent contained, and officials say suppression efforts are "going very well."

Rain and cooler temperatures helped temper the blaze and prevent its growth Friday, said David Eaker of the National Parks Service. The fire covers around 750 acres.

Though the entire Kolob Canyons area of the park remains closed, including the Kolob Canyons Scenic Drive and its surrounding trails, Eaker said park officials hope to have the roadway reopened soon.

"We'll keep the trails closed, though, just because they're closer to the fire," he said.

Eaker said areas where the fire remains active are "well in the interior" of Zion National Park. No structures are being threatened.

Despite the road and trail closures, the Kolob Canyon visitor center remains open.

Eaker said the fire has had "no effect whatsoever" on Zion National Park's 100th anniversary celebration.

"That's all in Zion Canyon, and the fire is way up in the northern part of the park," he said.

— Emiley Morgan