Single Publication

Hungry Horse Reservoir Closed Due to Fire Activity

Kalispell, MT, August 8, 2023 — As of 7:00am this morning, the Hungry Horse Reservoir is closed to all public access, including both the east and west side roads. As firefighting efforts continue on the Ridge Fire, the Tin Soldier Complex, and other fires in the area, the closure is in place to provide for public and firefighter safety. 
The Hungry Horse Reservoir is a very large area with a high level of recreation use with limited emergency egress and fire is now on three sides. While the relatively cooler weather has moderated recent fire growth, hot and dry conditions are forecasted to return and increased wind speeds can cause more active fire behavior. If fire activity were to increase, firefighting personnel and first responders could be diverted from the firefighting effort to facilitating safe public evacuation. The closure is therefore in place to provide for public and firefighter safety. 
The closure includes all roads, trails, and recreation sites in the area. The waters of Hungry Horse Reservoir and all islands are closed from Hungry Horse Dam to the Spotted Bear District boundary. NFS Road 895 will remain open approximately 800 feet south of the west abutment of Hungry Horse Dam to facilitate traffic flow. 
Today, law enforcement officials are conducting sweeps of the reservoir on land and water to ensure all visitors are aware of the closure and are able to leave the area. Signs indicating the closure are posted at access points and trailheads.