At 4:36 p.m. on Monday, February 2, Jackson Hole Fire/EMS and the Teton County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to The Sylvan Lodge at the Snake River Sporting Club near Hoback. Sheriff’s Deputies arrived first, confirmed the fire, and began evacuating hotel guests and staff.
According to Jackson Hole Fire/EMS Battalion Chief Brian Carr, who served as the Sylvan Fire Incident Commander, firefighters initially observed heavy smoke coming from the roof and visible flames near the chimney. Fire crews immediately began suppression efforts, applying water to the roof from Fire Engine 31 out of Hoback Fire Station 3. Firefighters quickly accessed the roof and used the building’s standpipe system to gain control of the fire and prevent further spread. A standpipe system is commonly found inside structures and supplies firefighters with pressurized water and hoses.
All guests and staff were safely evacuated, and no injuries were reported among the public or responders. Access into the Snake River Sporting Club and lodging areas were affected, but no public roads were closed.
Thirty Jackson Hole Fire/EMS personnel responded to the incident, including two Chief Officers, one medical director, and 27 firefighters. An additional six firefighters and two Chief Officers remained on standby at other stations. Resources deployed to the fire included three engines, one aerial ladder truck, one ambulance, and one unmanned aircraft (drone). Teton County Dispatch supported the response by providing information management and coordination throughout the incident.
The Teton County Emergency Operations Center (EOC) was partially activated, utilizing four support functions of the Town and County’s Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) to assess resources, coordinate information, arrange meals, and lodging access. Teton County Emergency Manager Rich Ochs would like to thank The Good Samaritan Mission for providing firefighters with 70 burritos, drinks, coffee, snacks, and more on less than an hour’s notice; and the Jackson Hole Chamber of Commerce for confirming that alternative lodging opportunities were available - if needed.
“This incident highlights Teton County’s coordinated emergency response,” said Battalion Chief Carr. “From early confirmation and evacuation support by the Sheriff’s Office to strong dispatch coordination and early fire control, the response was collaborative and effective. The operational standpipe and fire department connection were integral to early suppression.”
The cause of the fire remains under investigation by the Jackson Hole Fire/EMS Investigation Team. Damage occurred in the roof and surrounding areas due to fire spread.
Jackson Hole Fire/EMS reminds the public to maintain a practiced fire escape plan, know at least two exits, and identify a meeting place outside the area of the fire.