JACKSON HOLE, Wyo. — A visitor reported Yellowstone’s first wildland fire of the year on the evening of June 24.
The Elk Creek Fire is a tenth of an acre in size. It is located on a ridge south of Blacktail Drive and west of Petrified Tree in the northern part of the park.
Park fire managers are suppressing the fire due to its unfavorable location this early in the fire season. The parkwide fire danger level for Yellowstone is HIGH; expected to elevate to VERY HIGH in the coming days.
Currently, there are no fire restrictions in Yellowstone. However, park staff is monitoring conditions and may put restrictions in place in the near future.
Campfires are only permitted within established fire rings in campgrounds and some backcountry campsites. Campfires must always be attended and cold to the touch before abandoning. Soak, stir, feel, repeat.
The Greater Yellowstone area is a fire-adapted ecosystem. Fire plays an important role in maintaining the health of this area’s wildlife habitat and vegetation.
