The first confirmed wildland fire of the season in Yellowstone National Park was detected by hikers on the Bighorn Pass Trail on May 26.
The .1-acre Memorial Day Fire was caused by lightning and burned in a mixed conifer forest just in the northwest corner of the park. Yellowstone wildland firefighters were called out to suppress the creeping ground fire, and it is now controlled.
The Greater Yellowstone area is a fire-adapted ecosystem, which means fire plays an important role in maintaining the health of the area’s wildlife habitat and vegetation.
Currently, the parkwide fire danger level for Yellowstone is LOW and there are no fire restrictions in place or planned in the park.
Visitors should be aware that campfires are only permitted within established fire rings in campgrounds and some backcountry campsites. These campfires must always be attended and cold to the touch before abandoning.
Stay informed about current fire activity in Yellowstone.
