What is a Smokejumper? | Higgins Ridge

By 1960 smokejumper bases were established across the west. The largest in Missoula, Montana, was home to half the nation’s 300 smokejumpers. Smokejumpers are trained to jump from aircraft into rugged and roadless terrain to respond to wildfires. They are highly capable firefighters who travel wherever they are needed to prevent the spread of forest fires. Learn about the history of smokejumping in the United States, including the changes in technology and training.