Wildfire and Smoke
It's not uncommon to get hazy views of the Tetons in the summer and fall months, but it doesn't mean you have to call off your trip. It just means there are a few things to pay attention to while you're here.
Knowing where wildfires are burning and how they may impact your plans is important, ensuring you don't contribute to the problem is crucial.
Check Current Wildfire Activity
The most important thing to remember when visiting Jackson Hole during wildfire season is to know before you go. Keep an eye on key statuses, alerts and health advisories from fire resources to plan a safe, healthy, and enjoyable trip to Jackson in the summer and fall.
- Teton Interagency Fire, a collaboration between federal, state and local fire resources with pertinent fire updates and alerts in and around the Tetons.
- Air Quality Index, current and forecasted air quality maps and data.
- WatchDuty App, a free wildfire mapping and alert service.
Current Fire Danger
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very High
- Extreme
Fires start easily and spread at a fast rate. Unattended campfires are likely to escape.
For a full description of each fire danger rating, and to stay up to date on any updates visit Teton Interagency Fire.
Fire Locations
Big Rock Fire
Burning in Eastern Idaho near Ririe, smoke from the Big Rock Fire is drifting across Teton Valley, over the Tetons and into Jackson Hole.
View Watch Duty MapBare Fire
South of Jackson and directly west of Pinedale in the Wyoming Range, the Bare Fire is burning within the Bridger-Teton National Forest.
View Watch Duty MapAir Quality
Good
Pollutant: OZONEAir Quality is highly variable. If you’re planning a big day in the Tetons, make sure you know your risk. For more information, visit airnow.gov or iqair.com.
Additional Information
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Wildfire Mapping
This Inciweb site is updated frequently to include info on lodging closures/evacuations and forest/trail closures. Zoom into Jackson to view active fires in the area that may affect your plans.
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Road Closures and Delays
Wildfires near roadways can cause road closures for a couple hours or a couple days. However, fire crews and WYDOT always work to get entry points open as quickly as possible. WYDOT maintains real-time information on road conditions in the area.
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Local News
Teton County journalists are some of the best in the game. Take a look at local news sources, like Buckrail, for info on current fire conditions.
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Weather
The weather changes quickly in Jackson Hole, and fire activity is no different. A strong wind can escalate a wildfire or force it to rapidly change direction. Likewise, a heavy rain or freezing temperatures can subdue wildfire growth and provide relief. Again, it’s important to read local updates and listen to any information coming directly from the source.
On the bright side, this can mean smoke one day and clear weather the next. Just because it’s hazy when you enter Jackson, doesn’t mean the Tetons will be difficult to see. And if the view is blocked one day, it may not be the next. Be open to changing plans and enjoy the flexibility of being on vacation!
Daily Report
Take a peek across the valley from one of Jackson Hole's numerous webcams, be prepared for your wilderness experience by understanding the wildfire danger, and be aware of current travel alerts to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience in Jackson Hole.
ExploreKnow Before You Go
While smoke blurring the Tetons can feel apocalyptic to visiting sightseers, wildfires are actually a natural part of the circle of life. When created from natural causes (like lightning), wildfires have ecological benefits. They can help rejuvenate forests and benefit conservation.
In Jackson, we often get smoke blowing in from large wildland fires in places like California and Oregon that pose no immediate risk to the area. Other times, fires are much closer to home and can pose an immediate risk to landscapes, homes, structures, and even people’s lives.
Always know before entering Jackson’s public lands and wilderness if there are nearby fires and where they are located. And have an “exit strategy” before you leave.
To report new fire or smoke, call Teton Interagency Fire Dispatch Center at 307-739-3630.
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