Looking to plan your next adventure with us?

Here is what you need to know about the Wapiti Fire that occurred during the summer of 2024.

What to know…

In 2024, Stanley experienced two local fires. One was a smaller fire of 2,500 acres near Redfish Lake Lodge, affecting part of the wilderness by the Bench Lakes.

The second fire, known as the Wapiti Fire, burned 130,000 acres on the west side of the Sawtooth National Recreation Area; mainly impacting the Grandjean and Stanley Lake areas.

The Sawtooth Nation Forest is roughly 2.1 million acres, less than 1% of the entire Sawtooth Forest that was effected by these two fires.

What’s Open? Where can’t I go in the forest due to the fires?

Currently, there are no restrictions in the Sawtooth National Recreation Area. Please check with the Sawtooth Ranger Station for current conditions.

How was Stanley rv and camp effected?

Stanley RV was not affected by the Wapiti Fire. Everything at camp remains the same as in previous years, and the view from camp has not changed.

The major areas effected by the fire are around the Stanley Lake and Elk Mountain areas, and towards Grandjean. Only the Stanley Lake trailhead was touched by the fire, but remains open to all traffic. All lakes, rivers and trailheads are open to everyone!

Current Conditions

You likely want to visit Stanley to explore the Sawtooth Forest, which includes nearly 2 million acres of wilderness. While we wish we could provide current trail conditions, our focus is on hospitality. We recommend joining the Sawtooth Facebook group where you can ask others for the latest trail updates.

This is a great video about PNW forest fires. There will be new growth with beautiful wild flowers and mushrooms this year!

Let’s make memories

Because the fire was so late in the season of 2024, we have not personally hiked some of the these trails before the snow moved in for winter. Please do your own research before hiking any trails. You can also check with the Stanley Rangers Station for the most up-to-date information.

Trails After a Fire: A Hiker’s Guide to Seeing the Beauty in Burns

It is time for regeneration. It is heart-breaking to say goodbye to our beautiful old forest but there will be re-growth. When you are hiking be on the look out for mushrooms, wild flowers and new growth.

  • Hikers should check the weather and conditions before going through burned areas. Standing dead trees can fall during strong winds.

  • Less tree cover means more direct sunlight, so wear sunscreen, a hat, and bring plenty of water.

  • Stick to the trail for your safety and to protect the area. If you must step off the trail, tread lightly.

  • Stay alert in windy weather, as burnt trees may be unstable. Always check the weather before you go on a hike.

  • Always be cautious with campfires and stoves, especially in hot, dry, or windy conditions.

We need your support

Stanley almost completely depends on tourism, and the Wapiti Fire had a huge impact on local businesses. Stanley Basecamp was evacuated for 26 days during the fire. We invite you to come back to Stanley and create new memories. There's plenty to explore in this beautiful area. If you have any questions or need help planning your visit, please reach out to us at info@stanleyrv.com. We look forward to hosting you soon!

  • Lindsay and Joe (and our dogs, Gemma and Harvey)