Due to recent rainy weather, high humidity, and low fire activity, Yellowstone National Park officials announce that ALL fire restrictions are being lifted inside Yellowstone National Park. Wood and/or charcoal fires are now allowed at frontcountry and backcountry campsites, picnic areas, parking areas, and employee housing as long as they are limited to established fire pits or grates or as long as fire pans or barbecues are used. Backcountry fires are allowed only in established fire rings and must be attended at all times. Only dead or down wood may be used as firewood. Smoking restrictions have also been lifted for the park.

Most backcountry trails and campsites in the vicinity of the Rathbone, East and Grizzly, and Union Fires have reopened to the public; the only trail that remains closed at this time is the 9-mile to Turbid Lake trail because of rehabilitation work. Backcountry visitors traveling through these areas should not loiter in the burned area and are cautioned to watch for snags and falling trees, especially during windy periods. For specific trail closure information and other possible restrictions, visitors planning to day hike or stay overnight in the backcountry are encouraged to call the Backcountry Office at: 307-344-2160.

Following is information on Yellowstone Fires:

East and Grizzly Fires: A Yellowstone National Park Type 3 team continues to manage these fires. The current size estimate of the two fires combined remains at 23,500 acres with 85% containment. Continuing mop-up and rehabilitation efforts are progressing well.

Rathbone Fire: This fire, started by lightning on August 20 in the Gallatin National Forest just outside the west boundary of the park, has been contained. Rehabilitation efforts have been taken over by a Type III team. For information on the Rathbone Fire, please call: 406-823-6961.

Union Fire: This fire is still around 800 acres in size. It is being closely watched and is managed in a confinement strategy. Remote weather stations are in place. It will continue to be monitored from the air.