Idaho Fires: Silver and Grotto Burns Remain Active as Crews Work Northern Panhandle Terrain

Idaho continues to battle several active wildfires heading into the second week of October 2026, with the Silver Fire in Boundary County presenting the most challenging suppression situation in the state at just 30 percent containment.

Silver Fire: 2,593 Acres, 30% Contained — Boundary County

The Silver Fire in Boundary County, in Idaho's northern panhandle, has grown to 2,593 acres and remains only 30 percent contained. The fire is burning in steep, rugged terrain that has hampered direct suppression efforts. Boundary County sits in Idaho's far north, bordered by the Selkirk Mountains and the Kootenai National Forest on the east and the Kaniksu National Forest to the north — timber-rich landscapes with dense fuels and challenging topography.

Fire managers have not yet released detailed information on structures threatened, but residents in the area should stay informed through local emergency management channels in Bonners Ferry.

Grotto Fire: 3,856 Acres, 50% Contained

The Grotto Fire is burning 3,856 acres at 50 percent containment in central Idaho. While progress has been made on containment, crews are still working to secure the fire's perimeter ahead of any potential weather-driven run. Dry conditions and residual drought stress in fuels have kept suppression crews engaged.

Doublesprings Fire: 1,779 Acres, 90% Contained — Custer County

The Doublesprings Fire in Custer County — Idaho's mountainous central region — has largely been contained at 90 percent after burning 1,779 acres. Crews are conducting final mop-up operations and expect to achieve full containment in coming days as cooler, moister weather moves into the region.

Idaho's 2026 Season in Context

Idaho has seen an above-average fire season in 2026, consistent with the broader national trend. Year-to-date, the nation has recorded 62,738 fires burning more than 9 million acres — 135 percent of the 10-year average number of fires and 147 percent of the average acres burned. Idaho's contribution includes not only the current active fires but also earlier-season incidents in Gem, Lemhi, and Elmore counties.

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