Closure Area around Granite Fire is modified
Granite Creek trail reopened
by Bridger-Teton National Forest
September 12, 2007
The Granite Fire is a lightning-ignited fire that has been burning in the Bridger-Teton National Forest's Gros Ventre Wilderness since July 19, 2007. The fire is approximately 22-miles northeast of Hoback Junction, Wyoming. The Granite Fire has burned 1742 acres and 40% contained. Due to the difficult terrain, firefighters have not been able to extinguish the fire.
Fire officials have been providing structure protection for the facilities at the Granite Hot Springs pool and campgrounds and have monitored the fire’s growth since this summer. Much of the Granite Creek drainage has remained closed due to the uncontrolled fire and the hazardous, partially burned trees or snags that were in the area. The Bridger-Teton has worked to remove many of the hazardous trees that were overhanging the Granite Creek trail.
The recent cooler weather and higher relative humidity has reassured Forest officials that it is safe to modify the closure order to only include the perimeter of the fire.
The Granite Creek trail is now open for public use and the order provides for access only along the trail through the burned area. Additionally, visitors may camp at the Granite Creek campground or in the dispersed camping areas throughout the drainage.
Visitors are reminded to use caution while in the area, as the Granite Fire is still not controlled and is expected to continue burning until the area experiences a significant rainstorm or it snows.
For more information, visit www.inciweb.org
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