Fire and smoke burn in heavy fuelsOn June 15, 2025, the Jericho Mountain Fire was reported burning in heavy dead and down fuel approximately 5 miles south of MacDonald Pass. The Forest Service, Montana DNRC, Baxendale and Elliston Volunteer Fire Departments assisted with initial response.
Northern Rockies Complex Incident Management Team 6, Incident Commander Rich Cowger took command of the Jericho Mountain Fire at 6 am on June 21, 2025.
Minimizing risk to responders and public safety are the top priorities. Fire managers appreciate your cooperation and assistance. If you are recreating near an ongoing wildfire suppression operation, please keep your distance - do not congregate in the area and allow the firefighters to do their job safely and efficiently.
In response to the Jericho Mountain Fire, the Lewis and Clark County Sheriff's Office issued an evacuation warning for residents on Rimini Road and all feeder roads south of Bear Gulch Road. Additional information regarding evacuations can be found on the Lewis and Clark County's Emergency Management Website.
Additionally, the Helena Ranger District, Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest issued a forest closure order. Reroute information for Continental Divide National Scenic Trail hikers can be found on the Forest's Webpage.
Forest officials are asking the public to be cautious when recreating on the Forest, know before you go, check current weather conditions and fire situations before planning an outing. Also, please remember that it's your job and responsibility to properly maintain and extinguish all campfires.
A Temporary Flight Restriction is in place over the fire area to provide the aviation team the airspace needed to support ground crews. Remember, if you fly, we can't!
The Jericho Mountain fire may be viewed from the MacDonald Pass camera here : https://alertwest.live/secure/cam-console/15586