Update 08/2/23: The Elkhorn fire has grown to almost 25,000 acres, showing growth in Big Mallard Creek and Bargamin Creek with continued movement up river.
Point protection measures, including structure protection, are being focused in the areas of Cook and Mallard Ranch, while the overall supression strategy for the northwest side of the fire is using both direct and indirect tactics.
Today, firefighters will continue to improve structure protection measures at Campbell’s Ferry, Whitewater Ranch, Allison Ranch, and Yellow Pine Bar, and implement measures upriver to Arctic Ranch, The River of No Return Ranch, and Arctic Point Lookout, as well as downriver to China Bar.
A river rafting closure remains in effect on the Permitted Salmon River Wilderness section from Corn Creek to Vinegar Creek.
RELATED | Elkhorn Fire covers nearly 25,000 acres, closes Salmon River rafting in Wilderness section
Boat launches are currently expected to resume on August 3, but may be impacted based on fire activity and changing conditions. Even if rafting is allowed to resume, there will be no stopping or camping on either side of the river between Sunny Bar and Campbells Ferry. Boaters floating through the area should expect to encounter smokey conditions.
Forest Service is offering rollovers for the same launch date next year if you choose to forgo your launch due to the area restrictions and conditions. Contact the Salmon-Challis National Forest river desk at 208-756-5587 or 208-481-2625 for more information.
The road to Whitewater remains closed to the public. Several other roads, trails, and areas impacted by the fire will be unavailable as the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forest is working on implementing closures.
A Temporary Emergency Closure remains in place on roads, trails and the area east of Mallard Creek drainage as far up as Bargamin Creek, and north of Bat Point on the Nez Perce Clearwater National Forest. People intending to use these routes or to be in these areas need to re-route and stay away from the fire area.
All firefighters are safe and accounted for.
Orignal Story: A fire detected late in the evening on Monday, July 24 in the Payette National Forest, the Elkhorn Fire, is currently burning 1652 acres.
Located near Campbell's Ferry on the main Salmon River in the Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness. The fire is burning on the south side of the river, though the river remains open for recreational rafting. Trail closures are expected to be issued soon.
Sixteen smokejumpers and a 10-person crew are assigned to structure protection in the area, hoping to divert the fire away from structures.
The cause of the fire is currently unknown.
This story will continue to be updated as information becomes available.
