Over its lifetime, Kootenay National Park (British Columbia , Canada)has been ravaged by wildfires. Most recently in 2003 and again in 2017 fires claimed 17,000 and 18,000 hectares respectivley.

It is an incredible wilderness to behold whether you have seen it change over the years, or even if it is your first visit. I have always loved this park as it is often overlooked when compared to its popular neighbours of Banff and Jasper. Incredible adventures lie in wait for those who chose the path less traveled. Some of the greatest backpacking trails in the world remain available, from the Rockwall to a back door trek into Mount Assiniboine.

While the forest is well underway rebuilding itself, the burnt remains have a unique beauty. For me, it is the contrast between the lost woodland and its ecosystem with the new one coming to life. It is difficult to imagine the loss of life in each wild fire, wherever it may be. However the power of mother nature in destruction, is even greater in creation.

(losgach. burning,incendiary. ga, gaelic)