HAMILTON - Little change is being reported Wednesday from the Bowles Creek Fire that is burning west of Skalkaho Pass.
The blaze remains at 3,559 acres with containment holding at 5%.
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 that crews on both sides will continue looking for more areas to establish more containment opportunities, especially in the south and west portions of the area.
There are 231 people assigned to the blaze along with four engines and one helicopter.
The Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest and Bitterroot National Forest have issued an emergency closure of roads and trails in the fire area.
Skalkaho Road remains but drivers should be aware of the increased traffic, slow down, and yield to fire vehicles and equipment.