Perfect weather conditions at the dry end of the season is fueling a rapid expansion of the Arnica Fire, which has grown to 1,600 acres in size and forced a temporary closure of the Grand Loop Road today.

Arnica Fire Grows to 1,200 Acres, Forces Temporary Closure of Grand Loop Road

According to National Park Service officials, the section of the Grand Loop Road between the junction at Fishing Bridge and West Thumb was temporarily closed from approximately 1:45 p.m. to 3:45 p.m. today, as the Arnica Fire spread to an area close to the road. Even when opened travelers along this road segment are being escorted by park staff.

Park Service officials warn that additional road closures may be necessary. Indeed, perfect weather for a fire expansion are on tap for the next two days: the fire has plenty of mature lodgepole pine to work through, and there’s no precipitation in the forecast until Tuesday, when there’s a 20 percent chance of rain, and Wednesday, when there’s a chance of snow.

Despite the proximity to the road, no hiking trails and backcountry campsites in the area have been closed (Bridge Bay Campground had already closed for the season), but boat launches from the Bridge Bay Marina.

Keep up with the latest in Yellowstone National Park news with our free weekly Yellowstone Insider newsletter. Subscribe today! More details here.

Follow Yellowstone Insider on Facebook! Click this link to go to our Facebook page, which features story updates.

We’ve also set up a free Twitter account so you can receive updates on the device of your choice.

 

About admin

Check Also

Paradise Valley

Victory for Opponents in Battle Against Gold Mining Exploration in Paradise Valley

Opponents of a proposed mine just north of Yellowstone National Park in Montana’s Paradise Valley won a …