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Smoke from wildfires forces closure of lodge in Glacier park

Lake McDonald Lodge in Glacier National Park was built with the front facing Lake McDonald. The veranda is a prime spot for gazing out at the lake and the mountains beyond. (File / The Spokesman-Review)
Associated Press

WEST GLACIER, Mont. – Smoke from wildfires has led Xanterra Parks and Resorts to close Lake McDonald Lodge in Glacier National Park for the season.

The lodge on the shore of Lake McDonald closed Wednesday, nearly a month ahead of schedule. Xanterra says the Sprague fire burning in the park was not threatening the lodge, but heavy smoke was settling in the area, at times creating hazardous air quality conditions.

Those with reservations will receive a full refund.

The lightning-caused Sprague Fire also forced the closure of a backcountry chalet earlier this month. The fire was not threatening Sperry Chalet, but it was burning near a trail used to access the chalet. It was closed for the season in mid-August.