Highway 97 reopens north of Okanagan Lake after Bradley Creek wildfire

Google Earth shows a small house and trailer on this property before the wildfire

August 5 2026 - Highway 97 has reopened between Old Kamloops Road and Salmon River Road, earlier than many expected after the Bradley Creek wildfire forced its closure over the weekend

The reopening happened Wednesday afternoon (around 1 p.m. PDT on August 5).

A reduced speed limit of 60 km/h is in effect, with no stopping allowed between Head of the Lake Road and Grandview Flats Road. Drivers are advised to watch for traffic control.

Drivers travelling Highway 97 will see the fire’s clear impact: stretches of blackened ground, scorched and fallen pines, charred brush, and damaged power lines.

Side roads remain closed, with orange cones and “ROAD CLOSED” signs still in place at several access points.

Utility crews were actively working beside the highway.

One striking scene is a pile of twisted, melted metal and debris, the remains of a property in the 9500 Block of BC-97.

Little more than scorched earth and rubble is left after the fire jumped the highway.

Westside Road remains closed between Shelter Cove and Highway 97 due to ongoing fire activity, hazards, and emergency operations.

The Bradley Creek FSR wildfire (K41351) is currently mapped at 2,852 hectares and remains out of control.

Hot, dry and smoky conditions are forecast to continue in the North Okanagan over the next few days, with daytime highs expected in the mid-30s Celsius.

Highway 97 reopens north of Okanagan Lake after Bradley Creek wildfire