Fire forces large closure in Zion National Park

Fire forces large closure in Zion National Park


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ZION NATIONAL PARK, Utah (AP) -- A wildfire has forced the closure of a large section of Zion National Park.

Park officials say the Cliffs fire, which has burned about 750 acres, has the potential to move quickly and threaten the safety of visitors.

Superintendent Jock Whitworth has closed the entire Kolob Canyons District of the park, including a five-mile scenic drive and four hiking trails in the area. The Kolob Canyons visitor center remains open.

The fire was sparked by lightning on Tuesday and had been burning on Bureau of Land Management Land. It moved into Zion National Park on Wednesday.

About 100 firefighters and five helicopters are assigned to the fire.

Events celebrating Zion's 100th anniversary on Friday remain on schedule.

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(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

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