Fire destroys north entry gate to Banff National Park
RCMP are investigating after the north entry gate to Banff National Park was destroyed by fire.
The small wooden booth sat on Highway 11 and is known by locals as the David Thompson Gate.
"That's near the junction with the Icefields Parkway, near the Saskatchewan Crossing Resort," said Parks Canada spokeswoman Tania Peters.
Emergency crews from Lake Louise and Nordegg were alerted to the blaze just before 2:30 a.m. Wednesday, said Peters.
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"When they arrived on scene the gate itself was fully consumed by flames," she said.
No injuries were reported as it was closed at the time.
"It's a welcome gate for people entering Banff National Park from Highway 11," said Peters.
"It provides visitor information and we also sell permits, so daily or annual passes, fishing licences and it's also a place people can collect information about campgrounds or things to see and do as well."
Officials are now considering whether to rebuild it.
"At this point in time we're assessing the damage and we'll be looking to future plans for what makes the most sense for that area," said Peters.
Anyone with information is asked to call Lake Louise RCMP at 1-403-522-3811.
