Berry Fire Shuts Down Southern Entrance of Yellowstone National Park

The Berry Fire grew significantly on August 22, driven by high winds and low humidity and burning through a mix of mature forest and areas burned during the 1988 fires. The fire has now burned from Grand Teton National Park onto the Bridger-Teton National Forest. Due to high fire danger, there is no access to Flagg Ranch and the southern entrance of Yellowstone National Park.

US Highway 89/191/287 in Grand Teton National Park is closed at Leeks Marina on the south, and at the South Gate of Yellowstone National Park on the north, effectively closing access to Flagg Ranch/Headwaters Lodge, Grassy Lake Road (from Ashton, ID), and the south entrance to Yellowstone. The road is closed due to fire danger along the road, and will re-open when fire danger is reduced and hazardous trees removed.

The Headwaters at Flagg Ranch, Sheffield Campground, and Lizard Creek Campground are now closed. Flagg Ranch Alternate Accommodations: 1-800-443-2331. In Grand Teton National Park, the following trailremained closed: Glade Creek trail, Owl-Berry Cutoff trail, Berry Creek trail from Glade Creek to Hechtman, and Owl Creek trail three miles west of Cutoff to Webb Canyon junction. For the most up-to-date trail closures, contact Backcountry Information at 307-739-3602.

Fire management goals for the Berry Fire include providing for public and firefighter safety; suppressing fire to protect structures and campgrounds; and monitoring fire growth as it burns in wilderness and contributes to long-term forest health.

Hazardous Conditions: Continued and rapid fire growth is expected the next few days due to gusty south/southwest winds, and low humidity. Road conditions will continue to be monitored and information updated. Drivers should be alert for smoke, use headlights, and reduce their speed.

So far the fire has burned 6,819 acres.

Travelers should also note that there are several fires burning inside Yellowstone right now, including the Maple Fire near the West Entrance, which has burned more than 27,000 acres to date.



Jeff
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