The wildfire burning along the south rim of Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park has grown to 2,896 acres as of Friday morning, with no containment yet reported, according to federal incident management officials.
The South Rim Fire, which began July 10 and was sparked by lightning, continues to burn actively on the western and southeastern flanks. On Thursday, fire activity prompted Montrose County to evacuate the Bostwick Park community “out of an abundance of caution,” according to an update from the San Juan Team 8 Type 3 Incident Management Team.
The South Rim fire as of Saturday. (Inciweb | Screenshot)
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park has been fully evacuated and is closed to the public. Highway 347, which leads into the park, is also closed at the junction with Highway 50.
Fire crews—72 personnel in total—continue to prioritize firefighter and public safety while protecting infrastructure, including nearby homes, park buildings, dam and power infrastructure, and cultural sites managed by the National Park Service and Bureau of Land Management.
On Thursday, structure protection efforts included vegetation clearing and the use of fire retardant. Air support also played a major role, with planes and helicopters conducting aerial mapping and retardant drops.
For Friday, fire crews are focusing on limiting spread toward populated areas and critical infrastructure. Plans include burnout operations and digging direct firelines where terrain allows. Two additional helicopters have been brought in to assist.
Weather was expected to challenge firefighters Saturday morning, with high temperatures for the day between 80 and 85 degrees, low humidity around 10–15%, and wind speeds of 8–12 mph. A slight chance of rain exists for the afternoon, but no significant wetting rain is forecast.
Smoke from the fire continues to affect local air quality, particularly in valleys and low-lying areas during the night and early morning hours. Officials urge the public to avoid the area and monitor government sources for updates.
For the latest smoke outlook, visit fire.airnow.gov. More information is also available at westslopfireinfo.com.
Information line: 970-240-1070
Email: 2025.southrim@firenet.gov
Facebook: facebook.com/blackcanyonnps
Sowbelly Fire
A separate wildfire, known as the Sowbelly Fire, is burning in the Dominguez Canyon Wilderness across Delta and Mesa counties.
The fire was first reported Thursday and has since spread through steep, rugged terrain that is hampering suppression efforts. The Bureau of Land Management said hot, dry weather and high winds on Thursday led to significant fire growth, with smoke visible along U.S. Highway 50 from Grand Junction to Olathe.
Pre-evacuation notices have been issued for areas of Escalante Canyon, particularly beyond the Pot Holes recreation site. The Delta County Sheriff’s Office urged campers to move closer to the highway, citing narrow canyon roads and limited access for emergency response.
Crews are working with hand tools, engines, and air support to slow the fire’s spread. Additional resources were en route to support containment efforts on Saturday.
Smoke is expected to linger in the region for several days, potentially affecting air quality in Olathe and surrounding areas. Residents with respiratory or heart conditions are advised to keep windows closed and use filtered air systems if possible. Drivers along U.S. 50 should expect reduced visibility and remain alert for firefighting activity.
The Sowbelly Fire as of Saturday. (Inciweb | Screenshot)
