JACKSON HOLE, Wyo. — A fire has started about five miles north of State Highway 22 near Mesquite Creek in the Jedediah Smith Wilderness.

According to Caribou-Targhee National Forest, the Mesquite Fire was discovered on Monday, Sept. 26. Fire is currently smoldering and creeping in down and dead fuels, and is currently only 1/10th of an acre. Its cause was lightning.

Fire crews objectives are:

  • Public safety (recreation users in the Jedediah Smith Wilderness area).
  • Protect utility, recreation, and travel corridors to minimize impacts on the local communities and visitors in the area.
  • Utilize natural fire within the Jedidiah Smith Wilderness area to enhance wilderness character and fire-dependent ecosystems.

Currently, no area or trail closures are in effect but may be subject to changes in fire activity. Smoke may be visible from the Victor, Phillips Pass, and Jackson Hole areas.

Toby Koekkoek is a Community News Reporter, and a recent resident of Teton Valley. He enjoys writing about our region's community events and the movers and shakers that make up the culture of this unique mountain town. He enjoys deep powder, and deep thoughts, skateboarding, playing racquet sports, riding his bike, and nerding out on music. Toby also coaches freeride skiing for the Jackson Hole Ski Club and runs skateboard camps in the summer.