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Wildfire, fire management and air quality news for western Montana and the Northern Rockies.

Yellowstone Works To Reroute Backcountry Hikers As Fire Grows

Brimstone Fire from Yellowstone Lake August 28, 2019
YNP/Public Domain
Brimstone Fire from Yellowstone Lake August 28, 2019

Yellowstone Works To Reroute Backcountry Hikers As Fire Grows

Yellowstone National Park staff are working to reroute backpackers southeast of Yellowstone Lake after the Brimstone Fire grew to an estimated 80 acres Wednesday evening.

Brimstone Fire closure map, August 29, 2019.
Credit YNP/Public Domain
Brimstone Fire closure map, August 29, 2019.

Backcountry and lake rangers have been working to contact about 40 backcountry hikers and three stock parties who had reserved campsites for the next three nights along the shore of Yellowstone Lake’s southeast arm.

A park spokesperson says the fire is not posing a threat to any visitors. Two groups of backpackers have taken shuttles out. Seven backcountry campsites and part of the Thorofare Trail have been closed.

Hikers can check the current status of the campsites and trail at Yellowstone’s Backcountry Situation Report web page.

A press release says smoke may be visible from Bridge Bay, Lake Village, Fishing Bridge, the East Entrance Road and communities east of the park.

Staff will monitor the Brimstone Fire and prepare long term management plans that address the safety of firefighters and the public, as well as the protection of structures and areas of interest.

Three other fires in the park are still being monitored. Fire danger is high.

Copyright 2019 Yellowstone Public Radio

Rachel is a UM grad working in the MTPR news department.
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