LOLO HOT SPRINGS — Update Sunday, July 26 10:20 a.m.:
Firefighters made significant overnight progress on 2 wildfires burning just over a mile north and south of the South Fork Fish Creek Community, with crews re-engaging Sunday morning to build on containment and continue suppression efforts.
According to an update by the Lolo National Forest, on the Cache Creek Fire, firefighters — supported by aviation resources — worked late into Saturday evening to complete saw and hand line around the entire perimeter of the blaze. Crews successfully stopped forward progression and completed a hose lay around the fire, which remains at 0.25 acres. Crews returned to the line Sunday morning to increase containment and focus on mop-up operations.
On the Owl Creek Fire, helicopter bucket drops continued late into the evening to support ground crews working a 4.8-acre footprint. Firefighters put in hand line and saw line through the night. Crews re-engaged Sunday morning to complete the containment line and begin mop-up.
Fire crews, heavy equipment, and aircraft remain active in the area. Officials are asking the public to avoid unnecessary travel near South Fork Fish Creek and Lolo Hot Springs to keep roadways clear for emergency personnel.
First Report: Saturday, July 25, 2026:
Firefighters on the Lolo National Forest are currently responding to two new wildfires burning in heavy timber near the South Fork Fish Creek Community in the Ninemile Ranger District.
RELATED: Two new wildfires burning in Lolo National Forest: The Owl Creek Fire, The Cache Creek Fire
Both fires are located just over a mile north and south of the community. Winds in the area are currently 10 to 15 mph, and both fires are displaying a moderate rate of spread. The wildfire was first reported at 1:30 p.m. Saturday, July 25, 2026.
Additional aircraft are currently en route to support firefighting operations on the ground.
According to Lolo National Forest officials, the Owl Creek Fire is located about 10 miles north of Lolo Hot Springs and is estimated at 4 acres. Engines and helicopters conducting bucket drops are actively responding.
The Cache Creek Fire is located about 8.5 miles north of Lolo Hot Springs and is estimated at 0.25 acres. Helitack crews and engines are on scene.
Emergency aircraft and ground engines are actively operating in the area. Please avoid unnecessary travel near South Fork Fish Creek and Lolo Hot Springs to keep roads open for emergency personnel.
Updates will be shared as more information becomes available.
