UPDATE: 08-29-2026 — 1 p.m. — Traffic delays are expected on Highway 38 as crews work to contain the Nature Grove Fire. Drivers should avoid unnecessary travel in the area and watch for fire crews and heavy equipment.
The fire grew by 135 acres yesterday and is now burning just half a mile from the road. Milder winds and water drops from aircraft helped slow the spread to the north and west. The fire continues to burn in steep and rocky terrain.
169 firefighters are working to stop the flames. Five aircraft are dropping water on the fire today. Crews are building fuel breaks and handlines around the highway and are prepared to stop the fire if it reaches the road.
Firefighters are also working to protect homes and livestock along the road.
Evacuation warnings remain in place for residents on the east end of Skalkaho Highway, including homes east of the 1800 block near mile marker nine.
A nearby fire at Bear Gulch is now secured.
Weather conditions today are dry and breezy. Temperatures are expected to cool over the next few days, with humidity levels rising slightly. The next chance for rain and thunderstorms is Saturday.
Several Forest Service roads in the area remain closed. A temporary flight restriction is also in place, prohibiting aircraft and drones from flying over the fire.
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UPDATE: 08-28-2026 — 12:20 p.m. — The Nature Grove Fire is growing east of Hamilton, burning 855 acres about 13 miles east of town.
Lightning started the fire on Monday, Aug. 23. Evacuation warnings are currently in place for people living on the east end of Skalkaho Highway, including residents east of the 1800 block on both sides of the road.
The fire is moving down the hill toward Highway 38. Flames are about half a mile from the roadway.
165 firefighters are working to stop the spread. Crews are setting up hoses and building fuel breaks. Their main goal is to protect homes and private property.
Drivers should expect delays on Highway 38. Heavy equipment and fire crews may be visible on the road. Officials are asking drivers to avoid traveling in that area if possible.
Several Forest Service roads are also closed, including Roads 75, 720, and 711. Drone flights near the fire are prohibited.
Weather could change fire behavior this weekend. Friday will bring cooler temperatures and light winds. A cold front is expected to move into the area Saturday, which could bring helpful rain to the dry forest. However, the front may also bring gusty winds and additional lightning. Firefighters are preparing for those unpredictable conditions.
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The Nature Grove Fire east of Hamilton has grown to 676 acres and continues to burn southeast as fire officials prepare to discuss operations with the public.
A community meeting is scheduled for 7 p.m. Thursday at Rocky Mountain Grange #116 at 1436 S. First St. in Hamilton to discuss the fire and evacuation warning notice information.
The Nature Grove Fire was caused by lightning and reported Aug. 23, 13 miles east of Hamilton, about a mile from Black Bear Campground.
The fire is burning in timber, litter and understory, according to fire officials, and water drops were conducted Wednesday that helped slow the spread.
Ground resources, including heavy equipment, engine crews, and hotshots, will continue work Thursday to protect structures along Highway 38 (Skalkaho Highway), lay hose line, and create fuel breaks.
So far, 116 personnel are fighting the fire.
Evacuation warnings have been issued to residents on the east side of Skalkaho Highway.
Forest Service Road 75 is closed from Highway 38 to the junction of Forest Service Road 720. FS Roads 720 and 711 remain closed. There is a Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) in effect over the Nature Grove Fire. Flying any aircraft, including drones (UAS), is prohibited.
Click here for latest updates on the fire.
Related:
Evacuation warnings issued for Nature Grove Fire in Hamilton
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