Tips for Recreating Responsibly and Actively Preventing Fires

Summer in Northwest Montana can be impacted by hazy conditions from regional wildland fires and in some years this area may experience fires as well.  Travel and activities in and around Kalispell are typically not affected but air quality can fluctuate, some times within a day. You can find the latest on the air quality here. Check for Montana Department of Transportation travel alerts here. View map of active fires in the U.S. here.

September 4, 2025: Fire danger in northwest Montana is currently rated as HIGH, which means things are pretty dry out there. If you’re heading outdoors, it’s important to stay alert and take extra care. Campfires, in particular, need your full attention—they can get out of hand faster than you think. Only build campfires in approved areas, never leave them unattended, and make sure they’re completely out before you leave. For the latest updates on wildland fire related restrictions in northwest Montana visit Flathead National Forest, Glacier National Park, and MTFireInfo.org.

There are currently no large fires in the Kalispell vicinity but smoke from regional wildland fires has moved in to the area. If you are sensitive to the smoke, reference the air quality index before heading outdoors. There is also plenty to see and do in and around Kalispell that doesn’t include prolonged times outdoors. Check out local museums and galleries, peruse downtown, set out on a day trip or sip Montana at a local distillery, brewery, cidery or winery.

Please help to prevent wildland fires:
As 80% to 90% of all wildland fires are human-caused and Montana is experiencing drought conditions with dry forests and dry landscapes, it’s imperative that we all do our part to prevent fires. It’s still important to be careful and mindful when recreating in forested areas.  Fires can spread quickly, so the safest approach is to prevent them in the first place. Let’s all do our part to keep Montana’s outdoors safe this season.

  • Plan ahead, know the current restrictions where you are recreating.
  • Don’t throw cigarette butts outside. Smoke only in vehicles or building or developed recreation site cleared of all flammable materials
  • If you’re towing a camper, boat or trailer, be sure your chains are not dragging as sparks can (and do) start fires.
  • Don’t pull into dry grass or fields with a hot car.
  • Keep motorized vehicles on designated roads and trails.

No matter what brings you to Kalispell, Montana, we’re glad you’re here. In addition, we ask that you please play an active role in preventing wildland fires and continue to recreate responsibly to keep this place as wild, untouched and beautiful as ever.

Resources
Fire Information for Travelers
Montana Fire Map
InciWeb (a map of all active wildfires in the U.S.)
Air Quality Index
Glacier National Park Current Conditions
Glacier National Park Webcams
Alerts Closures & Incidents (Montana Department of Transportation)
Wildland Fire Prevention Printout