Crews make progress on Dry Head Fire

Fire crews made progress over the weekend on a lightning-caused fire in the Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area, park officials reported Monday. The lightning-caused Dry Head Fire, located near Dryhead canyon, is now 70 percent contained. The uncontained portion of the fire is located in steep, rocky terrain inside the canyon, which is inaccessible for firefighters.

Monday, crews from Grand Teton Interagency Fire and Helena National Forest Fire were released to return home and prepare for other assignments. Bighorn Canyon fire crew members, under the command of a Type 5 incident commander, will remain on site to patrol and monitor the fire.

Lake access to Dryhead Canyon continues to be temporarily closed for boating, including all motorized and non-motorized watercraft. The fire has caused rocks and debris to loosen and fall from the canyon ledges into the lake, which can cause a hazard for boaters. The main canyon remains open to boating. Park staff are patrolling the area. Boaters are asked to respect the temporary closure and directions from staff to ensure fire crew, staff and boater safety. 

Local communities and park visitors may continue to see smoke from the fire area as fuels within the fire’s perimeter continue to be consumed. Smoke is expected to settle into low-lying areas in the evenings. To learn more about living near wildfire smoke, visit AirNow.gov.