The following is a release from the Bridger-Teton National Forest – 

Crews continue work to suppress the Horse Creek Fire on the Big Piney Ranger District of the Bridger-Teton National Forest. The lightning-caused fire was discovered on July 1, 2024, and is 43-acres in size, burning in timber approximately 2-miles northeast of the Blind Bull warming hut. Wyoming Type 3, Team 2 assumed command of the fire at 6:00 a.m. on July 12, 2024.

The forest has implemented Horse Creek Fire Area, Road, and Trail Closure 04-03-24-305(map) in the vicinity for public safety and to allow for firefighters and equipment to move throughout the area.

Currently on the Horse Creek Fire, there are 64 firefighters and 1 helicopter working on the fire. Fire crews have positioned hose along southern holding features of the North Horse Creek drainage area. Crews will begin creating a fuel break by cutting a fire line with hand tools in the lower part of Pass Creek for suppression efforts.

Efforts continue to identify the highest probability of success in fire line placement. Because the fire is burning in a string of conifer trees on a steep slope, the plan is to confine and contain the fire and keep firefighters out of the snags while suppressing the fire. With rain and lightning in the forecast, crews remain active, but safety is the priority for firefighters.

The fire danger rating for the Bridger-Teton National Forest is High. That means fires can start easily from most causes, and small fuels such as grasses and needles will ignite readily.

For other news, events and information about the Bridger-Teton National Forest, call 307-739-5500, visit the Forest website at https://www.fs.usda.gov/btnf and follow the Bridger-Teton on Facebook and X (formerly Twitter) @BridgerTetonNF.