Elk Fire Closure Update

The Elk Fire closure has been reduced to a smaller footprint. If you plan to visit the Forest, please be prepared for winter-like conditions. If you are leaving ruts in the road or trail, you are causing resource damage and should not continue. Visit another day when conditions are better, and your use does not damage the route or your vehicle.

Trail access in the Story area is open, including South Piney Trail and Story-Penrose Trail. Red Grade Road from the eastern Forest boundary to its junction with Big Goose Road near the Big Goose Ranger Station will open Saturday, November 2. However, with fire suppression repair continuing on Red Grade Road to its junction with Black Mountain Road, both roads will remain closed until operations are complete. Most Forest System Lands north of Highway 14 and east of Black Mountain Road 16 are now open to entry.

The Sheridan County Sheriff’s Office announced that Smith Creek Road, Twin Creek Road, Amsden Road, and  Little Goose Canyon Road have been reopened. Tongue River Road will remain closed at Amsden Road and PK Lane will remain closed. As some areas of the forest remain closed, officials urge the public to check for any forest restrictions from open roadways.