Road Between Lake and West Thumb to Re-Open

Date: October 2, 2009
Contact: Stacy Vallie, [phone]

National Park Service
U.S. Department of the Interior

Yellowstone National Park
P.O. Box 168
Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190
   
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 2, 2009     09-103    
Stacy Vallie [phone]

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YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK NEWS RELEASE
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Road Between Lake and West Thumb to Re-Open

The road between Lake and West Thumb will re-open with no restrictions to 24-hour travel
beginning at 6:00 p.m. Friday, October2.  The road has been closed intermittently to allow for hazardous trees removal along a 2-mile segment of road that was affected by the Arnica Fire.

Although fire activity has greatly diminished with the recent rain and snow, heavy fuels may continue to smolder. Visitors should reduce speed and drive with caution during periods of reduced visibility due to smoke.

Check at park visitor centers or backcountry offices for the current status of hiking trails and backcountry campsites in the area.

The Arnica Fire is currently estimated at 10,700 acres and was caused by a lightning strike on or around September 13.  The fire was reported on September 23.
                          
All entrances are open.  As a reminder, the road between Norris and Madison is closed due to road construction.  Visitors are encouraged to stop at park visitor centers and area chambers of commerce for assistance with trip planning in and around the park.
 
During the fall season, visitors to Yellowstone can expect to encounter winter driving conditions and should be prepared for blowing snow and icy roads.  These conditions can temporarily close park roads.  Visitors can call the 24-hour road information line at 307-344-2117 for current conditions.

    - www.nps.gov/yell-