As we move past mid-August, Western Colorado’s wildfires continue to burn, keeping residents on edge and stretching manpower and resources. While firefighters and first responders are making steady progress, significant challenges remain.
The Massive Lee Fire continues to spread whenever winds increase, while signs of containment are improving around the Elk Fire to the east. There’s also a bit of good news — the South Rim of the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park has reopened.
Lee Fire: Record-Breaking Spread & Containment Status
More than 1,000 personnel are battling the two major wildfires, supported by 5 aircraft, 9 hand crews, 39 engines, and 22 pieces of heavy equipment. The Lee Fire has become the fifth-largest wildfire in Colorado history in just days, scorching nearly 140,000 acres since August 2 as strong winds fueled its rapid growth.
Lee Fire Threatens Communities, Meeker on Alert
Fueled by persistent winds over the last ten days, the Lee Fire raced south along Highway 13 toward Rifle, putting nearby communities at risk. Firefighters have worked tirelessly to prevent the flames from crossing the highway and threatening Meeker, where children returned to school this week.
As the fires intensified, Governor Jared Polis declared a statewide disaster emergency, activating the National Guard and releasing $2.5 million to support wildfire response efforts.
South Rim Reopens: A Bright Spot Amid Fire Season
On July 30, the National Park Service reopened the North Rim of the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, and on August 18, officials announced the South Rim’s reopening as well.
Visitors can now explore the park and witness its striking contrasts — from burned landscapes to surviving areas like the visitor center, park store (open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.), Tomichi Point, Gunnison Point, and parts of the Rim Rock Trail. The Red Rock Canyon Wilderness has also reopened for reservation holders.
Colorado’s Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park features cliffs half a mile high and some of the oldest rocks on Earth. For nature lovers, hikers, and photographers, it remains one of the state’s most breathtaking destinations — now open once again despite an ongoing and challenging wildfire season.
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Katie is a senior who has been on staff for three years. Her favorite type of stories to write is reviews and features. Katie’s favorite ice cream flavor is strawberry.
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