The Upper Smith Fire on the Idaho Panhandle National Forest continues its slow wind-down in the far northern Idaho panhandle, holding at 4,848 acres with 41% containment as of September 21. The fire started July 8 from a lightning strike and burned through steep, heavily timbered terrain before recent precipitation slowed its progression significantly.
Fire Location and Conditions
The fire is located approximately six miles west of Porthill, Idaho, and about 20 miles northwest of Bonners Ferry — in a remote section of the Selkirk Mountains near the Canadian border. It burns on a steep north-facing slope in heavy mature mixed conifer with significant concentrations of dead and down fuels.
Fuel conditions remain challenging: 1,000-hour fuel moisture is at 12–14%, and deep duff layers continue to hold heat and support smoldering. The fire footprint overlaps portions of the Long Canyon Fire 2022 and Parker Ridge 2015 burn scars, where accumulated snags, deadfall, and conifer regeneration provide continued fuel sources.
Current Activity and Outlook
Only 26 personnel remain assigned to the Upper Smith Fire, primarily conducting suppression repair work. Fire behavior has dropped to minimal — creeping and smoldering — with low to minimal activity projected through the next 72-plus hours.
Current weather projections call for temperatures in the 60s to low 70s, with generally light winds. Northwest winds could gust to 20 mph Thursday afternoon. Cooler temperatures and increasing chances for showers are forecast through the weekend, which should continue suppressing any flare-ups.
The incident's estimated containment date is listed as December 31, 2026, reflecting the likelihood that natural winter snows will achieve final suppression before crews accomplish it through active operations.
Fire Restrictions Lifted Panhandle-Wide
In positive news for outdoor recreators, land managers across the Idaho Panhandle lifted all fire restrictions effective September 3, citing widespread precipitation and cooler temperatures that significantly lowered fire danger across the region. The decision was made jointly by federal, state, and tribal land managers.
A trail closure for Pyramid Pass Trail (NFS Trail #13) in the Bonners Ferry Ranger District remains in effect due to proximity to the fire perimeter. Information about the Upper Smith Fire is available by calling 208-557-8813 or emailing 2026.uppersmith@firenet.gov.