Wildfire Spotted in Yellowstone

A remote wildfire has been spotted on the eastern boundary of Yellowstone National Park.

On the evening of August 3, Yellowstone’s Mount Washburn fire lookout detected a wildfire near the eastern boundary of the park likely caused by lightning. That area has received substantial lightning over the past two weeks.

While performing an aerial reconnaissance on the morning of August 4, Shoshone National Forest fire staff located the fire in the vicinity of Pollux Peak. Mapped at 29 acres, the remote fire does not pose an immediate threat to established trails, backcountry campsites, or patrol cabins, although there is a cabin about 4 miles northeast of the fire.

Fire managers intend to monitor the Pollux Fire, but they also will prepare long-term management plans that address firefighter and public safety, protection of structures and natural and cultural resources.

Smoke from this wildfire may be visible in the areas of Sunlight Basin and Crandall.