June 21, 2025 — Panguitch, UT
Red Flag weather conditions fueled increased fire activity on the northwestern edge of the France Canyon Fire Friday, with flames advancing toward the head of Blue Fly Canyon. Though growth is currently limited to that direction, the fire’s intensity made it unsafe to construct direct containment lines.
Bulldozers are now being used to bolster firebreaks west of the fire, especially in efforts to prevent further spread toward Hatch. Out of an abundance of caution, structure protection work is also underway in Hillsdale and Johnson Canyon, although no homes are currently under threat.
On the other flanks of the fire—northeast, east, south, and southwest—crews saw minimal fire movement. A strategic firing operation conducted earlier in the week continues to hold, and fire managers remain confident it will prevent spread into Bryce Canyon National Park. Likewise, minimal activity has been reported in the Little Bear Fire scar to the north, thanks to preemptive thinning and less dense vegetation.
Saturday Operations and Resource Updates
Today, firefighting crews are reinforcing indirect lines west of the fire between Big Hollow and Hillsdale Canyons. Work is also ongoing around King Creek Campground and Wilson Peak infrastructure in case the fire shifts in that direction. Stronger natural firebreaks are being prepped in advance of the fire’s movement into lighter vegetation.
Current fire resources include:
- 17 handcrews
- 3 bulldozers
- 17 engines
- Multiple helicopters and air tankers
The total personnel assigned has grown to 558. A Complex Incident Management Team (CIMT) is expected to assume command on Sunday.
Weather & Closures
Red Flag Warnings remain in effect. Winds are sustained around 20 mph, with gusts reaching 40–50 mph. Relative humidity remains low (10–15%), and daytime temperatures are expected between 75–80°F.
Closure Area: All National Forest System lands south of Utah State Route 12 on the Powell Ranger District remain closed, except for Red Canyon Campground, Red Canyon Bike Trail #33016, Castle Bridge Trail #33096, Golden Wall Trail #33095, and Forest Road 113. The East Fork Road (087) is still closed.
Stay Updated
For the latest official information:
For media inquiries, contact the Color Country Type 3 Incident Management Team at 435-258-9909 or email 2025.FranceCanyon@firenet.gov.
