HAMILTON - Some slight growth is being reported on Monday from the Bowles Creek Fire that is burning west of Skalkaho Pass.
The blaze has grown from 3,267 acres to 3,559 acres with containment remaining at 3%.
The fire — which was sparked by lightning on July 20, 2023 — is burning three miles west of Skalkaho Pass in the Bowles Creek Drainage.
Fire managers report crews are continuing to extend fire lines as well as reducing available fuel.
There are 231 people assigned to the blaze along with four engines and one helicopter.
The Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest and Bitterroot National Forest issued an emergency closure of roads and trails on July 25, 2023.
A complete listing of the road and trail closures can be found here.
The Skalkaho Pass Road remains open. People in the fire area should be aware of the situation and reduce speed due to increased fire traffic.
