The Backbone Fire was a wildfire that started near Payson, Arizona on June 16, 2021.

The fire burned 40,855 acres (16,533 ha) was fully contained on July 19, 2021.

[1][2] The Backbone Fire was first reported on June 16, 2021, at 11:30 pm MST.

[1][2] Fossil Creek Recreation Area was closed on June 17, 2021, due to wildfire danger.

[3] The Coconino National Forest was fully closed on June 23, 2021, due to fire danger, dry conditions, persistent wildfire activity, and limited availability of firefighting resources.