The Rock Wildfire that erupted this past summer wreaked havoc across several counties in Idaho and Montana, burning over 2,000 acres, according to IQAir, which tracks global air quality. The blaze came dangerously close to Tamarack Ski Resort in Idaho, threatening nearby buildings and forcing urgent safety measures.
Fire Ignited by Lightning Near Tamarack Resort
In mid-August, a lightning strike just two miles away from the resort sparked the wildfire. Within hours, flames consumed more than 1,000 acres, prompting Tamarack to suspend its summer operations temporarily. What began as a crisis soon turned into a new opportunity for growth.
Rebuilding with a Vision — New Ski Terrain Emerging
With winter approaching, Tamarack Resort is transforming tragedy into progress. Roughly 50 to 60 acres of the burned area are being redeveloped into fresh skiing terrain for visitors. Resort officials believe the project will not only enhance the skiing experience but also showcase the region’s resilience and natural beauty.
Major Cleanup and Development Underway
Local KIVI News reported that more than 200 truckloads of dead timber will be cleared from the burn zone in the coming three weeks. Once the debris is removed, workers will trim the remaining charred tree stumps down to just six inches above the ground. The goal is to complete the preparation and open the new slopes by November 28, 2025, aligning with the resort’s winter opening day.
Leadership Embraces the Change
During an interview with KIVI, Scott Turlington, President of Tamarack Resort, shared his optimism about the project.
“This is what a lightning strike looks like after the aftermath,” Turlington said. “We’ll have groomers, deep powder, and skiers enjoying this new terrain with spectacular mountain views.”
His statement reflects the resort’s determination to rebuild stronger and create a more diverse skiing landscape.
Expanding the Resort’s Adventure Zone
Currently, Tamarack Ski Resort boasts 56 named runs spread across 2,000 acres of skiable terrain. Although the exact number of new slopes being added remains unspecified, the expansion promises to enhance the resort’s appeal. Situated at a 7,700-foot summit elevation and offering 2,800 feet of vertical drop, Tamarack receives around 300 inches of snow annually, making it a premier winter destination in the region.
The Rock Wildfire may have devastated parts of Tamarack’s surroundings, but it also paved the way for renewal. With new ski terrain, an ambitious cleanup project, and a strong leadership vision, Tamarack Ski Resort is turning a natural disaster into an inspiring comeback story. By the 2025 winter season, skiers can look forward to exploring brand-new slopes that symbolize Idaho’s enduring spirit and resilience.
