Elk

Local crews patrol Elk Fire lines with all evacuations lifted

The Elk Fire continues to smolder and creep through rugged wilderness terrain in northern Hinsdale County northwest of Lake City. Fire activity has remained minimal over the last several days, with natural barriers and containment lines preventing spread toward populated areas. Local Forest Service crews continue to monitor the perimeter and check inaccessible terrain.

Evacuations and Closures

• All evacuation orders and warnings across Hinsdale County have been lifted.
• Forest and area closures remain in effect for portions of the Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests and adjacent Bureau of Land Management lands (September 6).

Impact

No structural damage has been reported, though lingering smoke remains visible across the Lake City area from interior burning fuels.

Conditions and Outlook

Breezy westerly winds and dry conditions will persist before humidity improves and rain shower chances increase toward the weekend. While isolated torching remains possible in pockets of heavy dead and downed timber, surface fire spread is expected to stay minimal. Firefighters plan to patrol lines south of Highbridge Gulch and maintain initial attack readiness across the area.

Cause and Context

The fire was ignited by lightning on July 9, 2026, and management was transferred to the U.S. Forest Service Gunnison Ranger District on September 8.

Official updates current through September 10, 2026.