Firefighters gain ground against Red Canyon Fire

LANDER (WNE) — At least on paper, the Red Canyon Fire seemed a little smaller Friday morning. 

Following ground-truthing efforts to verify the actual size and extent of the fire, it was found to be at 124,701 acres. And, with firefighting efforts starting to make inroads, as of press time several Fremont County evacuation zones had been reduced to READY status and the fire was 48% contained.

The Red Canyon Fire started on August 13, likely caused by lightning. It quickly grew in size, prompting evacuation orders in Hot Springs County. 

On August 18, Fremont County Emergency Management issued evacuation orders in parts of Fremont County as well. 

Following recent firefighting inroads, Fremont County zones 3, 4, 5, 6, and 8 have now been reduced to READY status. Zones 4 and 8, North Bridger Creek and Middle Bridger Creek, were previously at GO status; zones 3, 5, and 6 (Geodicke Draw East to North Bridger Creek, North Bridger Creek to Nowood Road, and Nowood Road to the Natrona County line) were previously at SET status. READY is the lowest of the three evacuation statuses; areas under a READY status should be prepared, take steps to reduce risk, and determine evacuation routes.

In response to the large fire, firefighting teams from across the region and country have been called on to help. From the Thermopolis Volunteer Fire Department to Bureau of Indian Affairs firefighters to teams coming in from other states, hundreds of firefighters have poured into the area. As of Friday morning, 566 fire personnel were engaged in fighting the Red Canyon Fire.

This story was published on August 23, 2025.