WONDERLAND COMPLEX

Fire activity remains minimal as crews monitor smoldering park fuels

The Wonderland Complex is burning in timber litter and understory within Mount Rainier National Park near Snoquera. Fire activity has remained minimal over the past 72 hours following rainfall, with behavior limited to creeping, smoldering, and isolated torching. No communities are threatened, though crews continue monitoring and assessing protection for backcountry patrol cabins at Lake James and Mystic Lake.

Evacuations and Closures

• No evacuation orders or warnings are in effect as of September 20, 2026.
• Sunrise Road remains closed to motorized public vehicles as of September 18, 2026, but is open to pedestrians and cyclists.
• Sunrise visitor facilities remain curtailed as of September 18, 2026, with potable water shut off and main restrooms closed.

Impact

Cooler conditions across the Cascades have lowered atmospheric mixing heights, trapping lingering smoke near valley floors. At Sunrise, public water is shut off and main restrooms are closed due to curtailed park visitor services.

Conditions and Outlook

Cooler, overcast weather will continue over the next few days, bringing fog, higher humidity, and westerly breezes. Fire behavior is expected to remain low, though heavier dead fuels retain heat and rollout on steep terrain can cause localized creeping. Firefighters will maintain existing value-protection measures, secure suppression water sources, and monitor backcountry structures.

Cause and Context

The cause of the fire remains undetermined. Management of the complex is transitioning as the incident management team concludes operations following damp weather and reduced fire activity.

Official updates current through September 20, 2026.