"The Elk fire’s rapid expansion to over 7,200 acres and the large number of personnel (up to 275) deployed underscore its significance, while the eventual containment of 90% demonstrates effective suppression efforts."
The Elk wildfire, located 7 miles northwest of Lake City in Hinsdale County, Colorado, was first discovered on July 9, 2026. By August 6, it had burned 2,911 acres and was 40% contained, with 53 personnel on the scene. The fire grew rapidly, reaching 7,257 acres by late August and remaining at that size through September, while containment slowly improved from 33% to 90% by October 1. The cause remains undetermined and the U.S. Forest Service is the primary jurisdictional agency. Fire behavior shifted from active uphill runs and torching in early August to minimal creeping and smoldering by late September, reflecting the fire’s transition to a more contained, low‑activity state.
Official source description: 7 Miles NW from Lake City, CO
Minimal; Smoldering; Creeping
Good air quality. Outdoor activity is generally safe near this incident.
Nearest reporting station: Telluride. Source: AirNow.gov (EPA).
The fire is currently minimal, creeping, and smoldering with 90% containment. Residents should remain aware of potential smoke and follow any local advisories, but no immediate evacuation is required.
IRWIN ID: {48A23460-97E0-47B3-BDA1-BE5B747A0B24}
Discovered: Jul 9, 2026
Cause: Undetermined
Managing Agency: USFS
Est. Cost to Date: $28,846,472
Coordinates: 38.1242, -107.3548
Other wildfires that have recently been contained or dropped from official tracking in CO.
The Elk Fire has burned 7,257 acres as of October 1, 2026.
As of the latest update, the Elk Fire is 90% contained.
The official cause has been listed as: Undetermined.
The Elk Fire is burning in Hinsdale, CO.
Yes, as of the latest official update, the Elk Fire remains active.
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