Wildfires in British Columbia’s Okanagan region are impacting tourism in the Columbia Valley, located several hours away. Despite the distance from the fires, the province’s state of emergency has influenced some travelers’ decisions, according to Jessica Fairhart, the executive director of the Columbia Valley Tourism Marketing Society.
The Columbia Valley, encompassing communities like Radium Hot Springs, Invermere, and Fairmont Hot Springs, is around 300 kilometers away from the wildfires in the Okanagan. Radium Hot Springs Mayor Mike Gray reassured that the community is not under threat from the fires, and local businesses, hotels, and attractions remain open for visitors.
Amber Roy, the owner of Wilder Lodge in Fairmont Hot Springs, mentioned a drop in August bookings following the onset of wildfires. Concerned out-of-province guests have been inquiring about the situation after seeing wildfire reports on social media, even though the fires are not in proximity to the Columbia Valley.
Amid fears related to the state of emergency, some tourists are hesitant to visit, impacting local businesses. Fairhart noted a recent decline in tourism but expressed optimism for an upward trend in bookings towards the end of August and September. Roy remains hopeful that last-minute trips and increased visitors will help recover losses, including those incurred during a wildfire-related power outage over the busy August long weekend.
While the Columbia Valley is not directly affected by the major wildfires, it has experienced periods of heavy smoke this summer, adding to visitor concerns. Fairhart advised prospective travelers to check current wildfire and smoke conditions before planning their trips to the area.
