New Yosemite Fire (Forbidden Fire)

June 04, 2013 Posted by: Yosemite Fire Information

This lightning caused fire was called in by employees and visitors observing smoke on May 21.  The fire is west of the Eagle Peak Meadow and Creek, a tributary of Yosemite Creek, and north of Eagle Peak, on the north rim of Yosemite Valley.  The fire is approximately at five acres, and smoldering through surface fuels and duff in a red fir forest.  Some parts of the fire have been observed with 6-12 inch flame lengths.  A single tree was struck by lightning.    

Smoke is visible from various locations in the park, including Tioga Rd, Sentinel Dome and Glacier Point.  Fire managers are working with Mariposa County Air Pollution Control District concerning air quality impacts to nearby smoke sensitive areas.

Yosemite fire crews will be hiking into the fire area to continue monitor fire growth and to improve the north rim trail system near Eagle Peak Meadows, and utilize natural barriers to check the fire spread to the south.  They will continue to scout for a week and determine the fire's potential growth and spread direction, measure fuel moisture, and monitor fire behavior and smoke production.

The Forbidden Fire meets the park's fire management objectives of firefighter and the public safety, as the fire presents few risks to values. The fire poses no threat to park service buildings, roads or infrastructure.  When appropriate, fire crews will utilize pack stock for logistical support on this fire in an effort to preserve wilderness character.

The fire was named for the Forbidden Wall along the Yosemite Falls trail.