Two local bikers, Kevin Smith and Cade, discovered a smoldering trash fire while riding the trails around Tibble Fork Reservoir in American Fork Canyon, Utah County. They promptly extinguished the blaze, warning that the area is a “tinder box” and that careless fires could devastate the region.

American Fork Canyon’s Trail Fires: A Growing Safety Concern

According to the report, Smith and Cade were biking when they noticed a smoldering trash fire. They put it out after visiting a nearby spring, but expressed worry about what might have happenned if they hadn’t seen it. The incident highlights a broader pattern of unattended fires on Utah County trails, as noted by several witnesses who have seen similar hazards in the Saratoga Springs and Eagle Mountain areas.

Deep Piles of Coals Could Spark Days Later

One online user described encountering a bonfire with a “deep pile of coals” that remained hot for a full day or more, with the morning breeze keeping it stoked. Another rider recounted finding a flame that, although extinguished, could flare again if not fully cooled.. Smith stressed that a fire should never be left unattended and urged people to confirm it is cold before leaving.

Public Lands Demand Responsible Use, Says Local Advocate

Smith called for responsible land use, noting that the trails are public and that a bad fire could render them unusable for years. He urged fellow trail users to think about the consequences of leaving a fire unattended. The report highlights that Smith and dozens of others online are now advocating for greater vigilance and education on fire safety.

Key Questions About Trail Fire Management Remain Unanswered

While the reporrt documents several incidents, it does not detail whether any formal fire‑control measures have been implemented by county authorities. It also leaves unclear how widespread the problem is across all Utah County trails and whether local fire departments have issued new guidelines. Finally, the report does not indicate whether the individuals who left the fires were identified or held accountable.