Containment declared but smoldering continues near Darwin Ranch
Fire crews have fully contained the Kinky Creek Fire, the U.S. Forest Service said Sunday, after the lightning-caused blaze burned roughly 880 acres in the Gros Ventre Wilderness west of the Darwin Ranch.
The fire, which began June 23, moved quickly through steep timber and deadfall. An incident management team from Idaho led operations for just under two weeks before handing command back to the Bridger-Teton National Forest on July 8. Fire managers used hotshot crews, fire engines, helicopters and scooper aircraft that drew water from Jackson Lake to suppress the flames.
“We were all just sitting outside watching the hillside burn, right in front of us,”
said Oliver Klingstein, the Darwin Ranch manager, describing guests’ decision to leave as flames climbed the slope. Klingstein said firefighters camped at the ranch and typically worked 12-hour days, coming on duty at 7 a.m. and returning at 7 p.m.
Costs, operations and continuing risks
By July 9, the operation had been estimated at about $4.2 million, according to a National Interagency Fire Center report. Although officials announced containment on Sunday, forest spokesperson CJ Adams said the blaze was still burning in places and crews had flown a drone over the area to map hot spots.
Officials warned recreationists that some trails remain closed as a result of the incident and ongoing risk:
- Ouzel Falls Connector
- Gros Ventre River Trail from Darwin Ranch to the Bear Cabin Connector
Forest staff emphasized that the region is moving into what Adams called "the heart of fire season", with high fire danger across much of the landscape. Visitors should follow forest guidance and exercise caution with campfires.
Local impact and what to watch for
The Kinky Creek Fire affected access and tourism in the Gros Ventre Wilderness area, temporarily altering plans for guests at Darwin Ranch and prompting a substantial interagency response. While containment reduces the risk of major spread, smoldering fuels in steep, timbered terrain can rekindle if conditions change. Officials will continue to patrol and map the burned area and adjust closures as conditions allow.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Start date | June 23 |
| Size | 880 acres |
| Estimated cost (by July 9) | $4.2 million |
| Incident command | Idaho incident team (initial control), returned to Bridger-Teton July 8 |
| Trail closures | Ouzel Falls Connector; Gros Ventre River Trail from Darwin Ranch to Bear Cabin Connector |
Residents and visitors should monitor Forest Service updates for changes to trail status and fire conditions, follow posted restrictions, and practice safe campfire techniques to avoid new starts during peak season.
Lane Cassidy, News Block — Jackson correspondent
