Murtle Lake in Wells Gray Provincial Park has reopened to the public even though the 1,270-hectare wildfire that forced the closure last Friday is still burning out of control.

BC Parks says current weather and conditions have reduced fire behaviour on the Murtle Lake Fire, allowing it to reopen the lake to the public.

“Although the imminent threat of the wildfire has decreased, smoke may still be visible,” BC Parks said in a statement.

“Wildfires are dynamic and the situation can change quickly. Recreators intending to visit Murtle Lake should be aware that the wildfire is still actively burning, and fire activity may increase should above-seasonal/summer-like conditions return.”

The only way to get to Murtle Lake – the largest canoe-only lake in North America – is by using a 24 km road off the Yellowhead Highway at Blue River.

The BC Wildfire Service is continuing to use a modified response on the suspected lightning caused fire, which was discovered on May 21. The BC Wildfire Service says it means the fire is being monitored but not actioned.

“During a modified response, a wildfire is managed using a combination of techniques with the goal to minimize costs and damage while maximizing ecological benefits from the fire,” the Wildfire Service said.

“This response method is used when there is no immediate threat to values.”

As of publishing, the Murtle Lake fire is the only on in the Kamloops Fire Centre that is categorized as Out of Control.

For the latest from BC Parks, go here.