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.
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