West Fork Fire 2025
West Fork Fire has burned 963 acres, burning 21 miles south of Big Sky.
Latest update
The West Fork Fire Started on 8/19/2025, located 23 miles northwest of West Yellowstone, Montana, in the South Madison's just North of the Beaver Creek FS cabin, Hebgen Ranger District, Custer Gallatin National Forest.
The West Fork Fire has shown no growth since September 1, staying within established containment lines and maintaining its existing footprint. Recent and upcoming weather systems help keep the risk of new fire activity low, enabling crews to concentrate on extinguishing any smoldering pockets, suppression repair, and addressing heavy fuels within the fire perimeter. Minimal smoke may still be visible from interior pockets, but it is not expected to affect containment. Crews will continue monitoring hot spots until the fire is completely extinguished.
The West Fork Burned Area Emergency Response (BAER) Team completed its assessment on September 26. The team's specialists conducted field assessments and modeling to identify threats to public safety, property, and natural or cultural resources caused by the fire. Based on their findings, the team has developed a plan to help stabilize the area, reduce immediate post-fire dangers, and support long-term restoration of the landscape.
The closure order for the West Fork Fire Forest Service Trail 200 (Order 01-11-07-25-04) has been rescinded, and it is now open for public access. However, please be aware that this trail is located in a burned area and could present numerous hazards, including falling trees and snags, rolling rocks, and logs. Isolated pockets of fire may still be active within the fire's perimeter. Recreationists are advised to exercise extreme caution.