Wildfire burns at high altitude across Colorado wilderness
A new wildfire is spreading due to high winds and dry conditions in the Hunter Fryingpan Wilderness, just 13 miles southeast of Meredith, Colorado.
The Granite Lake Fire was first detected on Saturday, September 21 on a steep slope at approximately 11,000 feet in elevation. According to the U.S Forest Service, the lightning-caused fire is burning in the South Fork drainage of the Fryingpan River above South Fork Pass trail 1940, located just 2 miles past the end of Forest Road 504.
As of Sunday, September 29, the fire is burning approximately 113 acres. While the fire has been relatively inactive, strong winds have recently pushed flames across patches of high alpine vegetation and avalanche paths.
No structures or infrastructure are being threatened at this time. Smoke is expected to be visible from Aspen to Basalt. For more updates, click here.
Red Flag Warnings remain in effect for many parts of the state due to warm, dry, and windy conditions. Fire dangers are expected to increase through Wednesday, especially across the mountains and any high valley areas.