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Ashton Today
By the People, for the People
Fremont County Trail Closure Extended Due to Tunnel Fire Damage
Crumbling rock and unstable conditions inside the historic Bear Gulch railroad tunnel prompt ongoing safety concerns.
Published on Feb. 4, 2026
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The Railroad Grade Trail near Ashton, Idaho, a popular route for snowmobilers and hikers, remains closed due to crumbling rock and unstable conditions following a tunnel fire inside the historic Bear Gulch railroad tunnel in Fremont County. The fire, first confirmed on January 25, has compromised the tunnel, adjacent slope, and wooden structural support features, increasing the risk of additional rockfall that could impact the trail corridor.
Why it matters
The closure of the Railroad Grade Trail is a critical safety measure to protect the public and emergency personnel from the ongoing hazards posed by the unstable conditions in the area. While fire-related closures are uncommon during the winter months, the Caribou-Targhee National Forest Service is taking necessary steps to ensure the safety of visitors and responders.
The details
The Forest Service has issued an Emergency Closure Order for the Railroad Grade Trail 001, extending from the Bear Gulch trailhead north to the junction with Forest Service Road 154 (Warm River Springs Road), about 10 miles northeast of Ashton. Public access is prohibited while suppression and mitigation efforts continue, and the closure will remain in place until officials determine the area is safe to reopen.
- The fire was first confirmed on January 25 inside the Bear Gulch railroad tunnel.
- The closure order was issued last week and has now been extended.
The players
Caribou-Targhee National Forest Service
The federal agency responsible for managing the Caribou-Targhee National Forest, which includes the Railroad Grade Trail near Ashton, Idaho.
Thomas Pence
A public information officer with the Caribou-Targhee National Forest.
What they’re saying
“We really want to emphasize that this area is closed for the public's safety.”
— Thomas Pence, Public Information Officer (EastIdahoNews.com)
“This closure will remain in place until it is deemed safe for reopening.”
— Caribou-Targhee National Forest (News Release)
What’s next
The Forest Service will continue to monitor the area and maintain the closure until the crumbling rock and unstable conditions inside the Bear Gulch railroad tunnel have been addressed and the trail is deemed safe for public access.
The takeaway
The extended closure of the Railroad Grade Trail near Ashton highlights the importance of public safety and the need for responsible management of outdoor recreation areas, especially in the aftermath of natural disasters or incidents that compromise the structural integrity of trails and other infrastructure.
