The Crooked Fire continues to challenge firefighting crews on the Boise National Forest, burning approximately 9,720 acres with only 21–25% containment as of September 4, 2026. Located 14 to 15 miles northeast of Idaho City, the fire has prompted new trail closures in the area and remains one of 13 large fires currently burning across Idaho.

Fire Status and Behavior

The Crooked Fire ignited in late August and has spread through timber and brush in the mountainous terrain north of the Boise River drainage. A Comprehensive Incident Management Team from Great Basin Team 3 (CIMT GB Team 3) is managing the incident. Fire behavior remains active, with continued potential for growth given dry conditions in southwestern Idaho.

According to the NIFC Incident Management Situation Report dated September 3, the fire is located approximately 15 miles northeast of Idaho City in the Boise National Forest. Suppression efforts are focused on protecting structures in the Idaho City corridor and preventing further spread into adjacent drainages.

Trail and Area Closures

New trail closures have been implemented on the Boise National Forest as a result of the Crooked Fire, according to the Idaho Capital Sun. Hikers, mountain bikers, and OHV enthusiasts are urged to check current closure orders before venturing into the fire area. Specific closed trails and roads will be listed on the Boise National Forest website at fs.usda.gov/boise.

  • Check inciweb.wildfire.gov for the Crooked Fire incident page for maps and updates
  • Contact the Idaho City Ranger District for road and trail closure information
  • Monitor Boise National Forest social media channels for real-time updates

Idaho's Broader Fire Picture

Idaho is hosting 13 large fires as of September 4, second only to Washington's 14 among all states. In addition to the Crooked Fire, the Cascade Fire in the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forest is burning 6,800 acres with 50% containment, located 19 miles east of Lowell. The Big Grass Fire, one of the season's largest in the state, has burned 578,000 acres and is now 93% contained.

Southwestern Idaho continues to see elevated fire risk and fuel loads, with dry conditions persisting across much of the region. Capital Press reported that fire risk in southwestern Idaho remains high despite some late-summer moisture in central mountain areas.

What Residents Should Know

Residents near Idaho City and the Boise foothills should remain vigilant and be prepared to evacuate on short notice. The Idaho Office of Emergency Management urges all residents in fire-prone areas to have three days of supplies, an evacuation plan, and to sign up for local emergency alerts through their county sheriff's office.