Forest Service closes roads, trails around Kinky Creek Fire

BRIDGER-TETON, Wyo. (KIFI) — The U.S. Forest Service has closed roads, trails and a large section of backcountry in the Bridger-Teton National Forest because of the Kinky Creek Fire.

The emergency closure took effect at 6 p.m. Tuesday and will remain in place through July 15 unless it is lifted sooner.

Forest officials say the closure is necessary to protect public safety as firefighters continue battling the wildfire.

The closure includes portions of the Clear Creek, Clear Creek Lake, Dry Fork Clear Creek, Lunch Lake Connector, Gros Ventre River, Bear Basin and Dry Fork/Gros Ventre River Connector trails.

Several forest roads are also closed, including portions of Kinky Creek Road near Darwin Ranch and Tepee Creek Road.

According to the Forest Service, the closure area stretches across the backcountry near Clear Creek, Brewster Lake, Lunch Lake, Doubletop Peak, Darwin Peak, Sunday Peak and Bacon Ridge.

Officials say numerous hazards associated with an uncontrolled wildfire make it unsafe for the public to enter the area.

Federal, state and local emergency responders are exempt from the closure while performing official duties.

Anyone who violates the closure order could face a Class B misdemeanor, fines of up to $5,000 for individuals or $10,000 for organizations, and up to six months in jail.

The closure order supersedes any previous restrictions in the area.

Additional information, including a map of the closure, is available through the Bridger-Teton National Forest.