MEEKER | A multi-mission aircraft conducted an infrared survey of the Himes Peak Fire 46 miles east of Meeker in the Flat Tops Wilderness on Thursday and found an active heat perimeter of approximately 94 acres at 3:30 p.m. This is considerably smaller than previous estimates.
Firefighters were able to construct some containment line and conduct firing operations to burn fuels ahead of the fire and minimize its spread. A helicopter and several single engine air tankers supported firefighters and lined roughly 90 percent of the fire with retardant. Firefighters now report 25 percent containment.
Improved conditions have reduced the threat to public safety, and Trappers Lake Road will reopen Friday, Sept. 8, at noon. The road will be closed again if fire behavior increases and threatens the Trappers Lake corridor.
Safety: Visitors are advised to watch Inciweb for alerts and area closures: Inciweb.
Closures: Himes Peak Campground and the Big Fish drainage will remain closed until further notice. Big Fish Trail 1819 and Himes Peak Trail 1877 are closed.