See the Colorado Gold Mountain Fire Photos You Sent Us
A fast-moving wildfire is changing travel and life near the Switzerland of America. Ouray’s Gold Mountain fire continued to push northeast on June 30, fueled by another afternoon of gusty Red Flag winds, which have helped the fire burn through over 14,000 acres in just a few days.
The fire is forcing evacuations, closures on Highway 550, and can be seen by travelers heading to Silverton, Telluride, and all over the San Juans. See the fire for yourself below, and keep scrolling for an update on the fire's status, closures, and key information for residents.
Look: Photos of the Gold Mountain Fire Near Ouray, Colorado
Gallery Credit: Wesley Adams
Where Is the Gold Mountain Fire Burning?
Read More: Grand Junction Could See Smoke from These Colorado Fires
Anyone who has hiked the Perimeter Trail in Ouray knows the effort it takes to get up that steep forested terrain above U.S. 550 in the Uncompahgre National Forest. Watch Duty reports the fire has burned over 14,000 acres as of Wednesday morning, and nearly 400 personnel are on the ground assigned to the incident. The fire has been moving northeast, but a change in wind could alter its course. Firefighters are being supported by large air tankers, Single Engine Air Tankers (SEATs), Type 1 and Type 2 helicopters, helping crews slow fire growth.
Road Closures Affecting Travel Through Ouray County
Travel on the north side of Ouray remains heavily restricted. Current closures include:
- U.S. Highway 550 is closed between Ouray and the Whispering Pines area north of town.
- County Road 17 (Whispering Pines Bridge) is restricted to residents and emergency access.
- Several nearby Forest Service roads and recreation areas remain closed as firefighters work, and to allow aircraft room to operate.
Travelers headed to Silverton, Red Mountain Pass, and the Million Dollar Highway should check road conditions before leaving.
Read More: Current Colorado Wildfires as of June 29
Where to Find the Most Reliable Fire Updates
Summer wildfire conditions can change by the hour. Residents who want additional information should check official sources such as Ouray County Emergency Management for evacuation notices and the Colorado Division of Fire Prevention & Control for incident updates. COtrip.org will report highway conditions and any changes to the U.S. 550 closure.
LOOK: All of the Pictures of the Pine Gulch Fire You Sent Us In 2020
Keep Going: It's Easy To See Why Colorado Loves the Maroon Bells
Gallery Credit: Wesley Adams