Alexandra Lodge survives wildfire in British Columbia

The historic Alexandra Lodge, a gold rush-era landmark in southwestern British Columbia, has survived a wildfire that came perilously close to the site. Located in the Fraser Canyon near the Trans-Canada Highway, the 130-year-old building remained standing after the leading edge of the Ainslie Creek wildfire passed by.

Owners Shirley and Ken MacKinnon, who purchased the lodge in 2021, expressed relief following the event. The couple has spent over four years restoring the building, which was originally constructed in 1863. The lodge holds historical significance, having served travelers since the gold rush and once hosting the King of Siam in the 1930s.

The BC Wildfire Service reported that the Ainslie Creek wildfire has grown to more than 651 square kilometers. Fire crews have been working near the lodge to conduct mopping up operations and danger tree assessments.