The Shingle Creek Fire, burning approximately six miles southwest of Riggins in Lewis County, Idaho, reached 69% containment as of June 30 — a significant milestone after what started as a fast-moving threat to structures, a fish hatchery, and a rural community less than two weeks ago.

Fire History

The Shingle Creek Fire ignited on June 21, 2026, in the Craig Mountain Supervisory Area, managed by the Idaho Department of Lands. It grew rapidly under dry, warm conditions and at peak burned more than 614 acres. Several structures were threatened in the early days of the fire, prompting a multi-agency response and the assignment of a national incident management team on June 25.

The fire burns in rugged terrain near the Rapid River Fish Hatchery — an important facility in the Snake River watershed — adding urgency to containment efforts. Firefighters cut line in steep, timber-covered drainages while air resources provided aerial support.

Weather Aided Suppression

Rain and elevated humidity in late June proved to be the turning point. By June 27, National Weather Service meteorologists noted that cooler temperatures and precipitation had moderated fire behavior significantly across the northern Intermountain West, including north-central Idaho. Fire crews were able to complete control lines that had been difficult to build under hot, dry conditions earlier in the week.

As of today, the fire is holding at approximately 635 acres with 69% containment. Full containment is expected within the coming days, weather permitting.

Transition to Local Control

The national team managing suppression efforts is now preparing to transfer management of the Shingle Creek Fire back to local firefighters — a routine transition that occurs once a fire is stabilized and the most complex operations are complete.

Local crews from the Idaho Department of Lands and cooperating agencies will handle mop-up operations and patrol the perimeter to prevent any rekindling.

Community Impact

The Riggins area, situated along the Salmon River in a deep canyon, depends heavily on summer tourism, fishing, and whitewater recreation. Smoke from the fire caused reduced visibility and air quality impacts in the river corridor during peak burning periods. The Rapid River Fish Hatchery, which supports chinook salmon and steelhead recovery efforts, sustained no reported damage.

For the latest updates on the Shingle Creek Fire, visit InciWeb at inciweb.wildfire.gov and search for Shingle Creek, or contact the Craig Mountain Supervisory Area Office at 208-295-5493.