Fires Close CDT Sections in Montana

It’s that time of year again. Fresh off the hottest July of the past 100 years (and maybe the coolest July of the next 100), fire danger in Western forests is extreme. Unfortunately, that means more of the seemingly inevitable trail closures that impact thru-hikers every year as they try to connect their footsteps from terminus to terminus. In a year that has already witnessed choking smoke on the AT from record-breaking wildfires in Canada, the trail community can only hope that the encroaching fire season is mild.

CDT Closed by the Rogers Pass Fire in Montana

Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest have reported that the Rogers Pass Fire is burning near the CDT, 15 miles east of Lincoln, MT. The fire ignited on August 1st, likely caused by lightning, and currently sits at 46 acres and 25% contained. According to the incident report on InciWeb, CDT hikers are advised to find an alternate route between Flesher Pass and Roger’s Pass, FarOut NOBO miles 2,672.4 and 2,685.9, respectively. This is a developing fire, and an official closure order is forthcoming.

Sidney Fire Threatens the CDT South of Glacier NP

In a separate incident, there are reports of a new fire near the CDT, eight miles south of the southern boundary of Glacier National Park. It is currently estimated to be around 100 acres, and fire mitigation tactics are being employed, including helicopter water drops. Yet another official closure order is forthcoming, which will impact the CDT. Until an official incident report pops up on InciWeb, fire status can be monitored on the Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest Facebook page.

For further updates on both fires and other trail alerts, including trail-specific mileage, keep an eye on the Continental Divide Trail Coalition’s Closures and Alerts page.

Featured image courtesy of HLCNF.