What is the name and location of the wildfire?
As of August 8, 2025, several wildfires are currently active in Idaho’s Payette National Forest, specifically within the Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness and surrounding Ranger districts.
The most prominent of these is the Big Bear Fire, which originated from a lightning strike on July 9 in the Krassel Ranger District. The fire is burning approximately two miles east of Arctic Point Lookout above the Salmon River (1).
Other notable fires include the Rush Fire, which also began from lightning on July 10, and the Skunk Fire in the McCall Ranger District.
Which cities or areas are affected by the wildfires?
- Frank Church-River
- Krassel Ranger District
- McCall Ranger District
- Rush Creek and Big Creek
- Salmon River corridor
- Southern Bitterroot Valley
Shifting wind direction could cause wildfire smoke to impact air quality in cities like:
What is the current containment status of the wildfires?
As of August 8, 2025, the Big Bear Fire has burned approximately 14,934 acres and is 70% contained (2).
The Rush Fire stands at around 7,391 acres and is 90% contained (3). Firefighters have secured Taylor Ranch using tactical firing and are continuing suppression efforts in the Cliff, Cougar, Goat, and Dunce Creek drainages. The fire is active in areas near Big Creek and Cliff Creek.
Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?
Evacuation and safety alerts have been issued in some areas.
The Rush Fire prompted Rush Trail Closure orders on July 18 due to fire activity threatening Taylor Ranch and surrounding creek drainages. Additionally, the Soldier Bar airstrip has been closed for public safety after it was overtaken by flames (4).
At Taylor Ranch, several student interns were evacuated over the weekend due to fire activity in the vicinity, and all firefighting resources are engaged in ensuring the safety of nearby historic and operational structures (5).
No mandatory evacuation orders have been reported for the Big Bear Fire, but structure protection remains in place at Arctic Creek Lodge and River of No Return Lodge, indicating the seriousness of the threat.
How can I protect myself from wildfire smoke?
Always plan ahead to protect yourself from wildfire smoke.
- Get a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts.
- Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode.
- Run a high-performance air purifier to filter wildfire smoke.
- Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data.
- Stay indoors; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask.
As of August 4, 2025, the Rush Fire is 90% contained and the Bear Fire is 50% contained.
