Kinky Creek Fire update - June 27, 2026
June 28, 2026
Firefighters continued making progress on the Kinky Creek Fire yesterday as cooler temperatures and rainfall moderated fire behavior across the incident. The lightning-caused fire is currently estimated at 890 acres and remains 0% contained. Approximately 148 personnel are assigned to the fire, with additional resources arriving to support suppression efforts.
The Kinky Creek Fire is located west of Darwin Ranch, near Upper Gros Ventre Falls in the Gros Ventre Wilderness on the Jackson Ranger District of the Bridger-Teton National Forest. The fire is burning in heavy timber on steep, rugged terrain.
Firefighters had a productive day working along the southern and eastern portions of the fire perimeter, keeping the fire north and west of the Gros Ventre River. Fire behavior remained moderated by cool, wet conditions, with firefighters observing primarily single-tree torching and only moderate fire growth throughout the operational period.
Crews continue implementing both direct suppression and indirect confinement strategies. Direct suppression efforts remain focused on areas where firefighters can safely engage the fire's edge, while indirect tactics utilize natural barriers and terrain features to limit fire spread and reduce risk to personnel.
Aviation resources supported firefighters on the south side of the fire, while ground crews continued scouting for safe and effective access routes to the northern edge. The steep terrain and limited access continue to present challenges, but firefighters are identifying opportunities to engage the fire where conditions allow.
Today's operational objectives include strengthening suppression efforts along the southern and eastern portions of the fire and continuing reconnaissance on the northern edge to support potential direct attack operations. Fire managers will continue evaluating opportunities to safely engage the fire while taking advantage of favorable weather conditions.
Firefighters are expected to benefit from continued cool temperatures, increased humidity, and additional precipitation forecast over the next several days. These conditions are expected to moderate fire activity and provide opportunities for crews to safely advance suppression efforts.
Aviation resources assigned to the Kinky Creek Fire also assisted with initial attack efforts on the Elkhart Fire, located north of Fremont Lake in the Pine Creek drainage. Although small and remote, the rapid aerial response supported suppression efforts and helped firefighters quickly engage the new start.
Resources assigned to the Kinky Creek Fire include helicopters, smokejumpers, hand crews, engines, overhead personnel, and support staff.
The public is asked to avoid Kinky Creek Road; Kinky Creek and Clear Creek trails; and the Brewster, Lunch, and Chateau Lake areas so firefighters can work safely and efficiently. A closure order remains in effect for portions of the fire area. https://www.fs.usda.gov/r04/bridger-teton/alerts/kinky-creek-fire-area-trail-road-closureTeton County Emergency Management continues to advise that Darwin Ranch and nearby private lands remain in SET status due to the Kinky Creek Fire. Residents and visitors should review evacuation plans, gather essential items, and remain prepared should protective actions become necessary.
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