JACKSON, Wyo. — High temperatures and gusty winds doubled the size of the Lone Star Fire in Yellowstone over the weekend.
Smoke from the fire temporarily closed Grand Loop Road between Old Faithful and West Thumb on Saturday. That section of the road has reopened but could close again at any time.
The fire spread on Sunday by torching and limited crowning as it burned to the east and northeast, with a significant column building in the afternoon. It has now grown to an estimated 3,346 acres.
Joe Rock, of West Yellowstone Smoke Jumpers, is now assigned to the fire along with 52 personnel. Mother Nature is expected to assist Monday night through Tuesday as a severe cold system is expected to bring rain and perhaps snow to the area.
Firefighters continue to keep a watchful eye on assets in the Old Faithful area.
What’s Open:
- The Grand Loop Road and day use areas between Old Faithful and West Thumb Junction are open but may close at any time if fire activity increases.
- All entrances to Yellowstone are open. For up-to-date road information see the Current Conditions webpage, call (307) 344-2117 for a recorded message, or sign up to receive Yellowstone road alerts on your mobile phone by texting “82190” to 888-777.
What’s Closed:
- Trailheads on the Grand Loop Road between Old Faithful and West Thumb Junction remain closed to the public. This includes Howard Eaton, Lone Star, Divide, and DeLacy Creek trails. A Lone Star Fire Campsite and Trailhead Closure map is available. Visitors are asked to respect all area closure signs even when there is no apparent imminent threat from the fire.
- Shoshone Lake and Lone Star Geyser are closed. Hikers and backpackers are encouraged to talk to park staff for alternate opportunities or visit the park’s Backcountry Situation Report. Fire danger in the Yellowstone area remains very high; campfires in the backcountry are not allowed
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