Uredale Point Heritage Trail reopened six months after devastating Vancouver Peninsula bushfire

Six months after an out-of-control fire razed the Vancouver Peninsula, the Uredale Point Heritage Trail — a popular hiking track — has reopened to the public. The fire, deemed suspicious by Albany police, started on January 29 and burnt more than 40ha before the Department of Fire and Emergency Services brought it under control. City of Albany City Reserves manager Jacquie Freeman said the bushfire devastated the area and caused significant damage. “The devastating bushfire at Uredale Point Trail earlier in 2024 caused significant damage, with stairs, boardwalks, and bridges requiring replacement,” she said. “Aboriginal rangers assisted in clearing the debris off the trail, but the lack of vehicle access meant contractors had to walk in carrying materials by hand which slowed down the progress. “The city is working with the local Noongar community to update and improve signage within the Uredale Point area.” Also known as the Point Possession Trail, the hike is a 5km loop that starts at Whalers Cove and takes in views of the Albany Port, Vancouver Peninsula, and King George Sound. The fire forced the evacuation of 16 people from nearby Camp Quaranup, under an emergency-level warning. Camp Quaranup sustained no damage from the fire, and no lives were lost. The efforts to contain the blaze were led by two waterbombers, one communications aircraft, 45 firefighters, and 23 fire trucks. The fire was first reported near the access to Whalers Cove Beach and the area was placed under a watch and act warning before it was quickly escalated to an emergency level warning.