Date: August 21, 2006

Yosemite National Park officials have begun efforts to contain a new fire that started late in the afternoon today, Monday, August 21, 2006. The fire was estimated to be approximately 50 acres at around 3 pm and is located along the Ribbon Creek drainage between El Capitan and Ribbon Creek, above the North Rim of Yosemite Valley.

The El Capitan trail is currently closed from Tamarack Flat to El Capitan.

Yosemite National Park is utilizing the park helicopter and hand crews for initial attack as well as off-park resources, including air tankers and additional helicopters. Crews from the Sierra National Forest, the Stanislaus National Forest, and the California Department of Forestry are aiding in the suppression effort.

Visitors to Yosemite National Park may experience smoky conditions that may impact their experience in the park. Visitors with respiratory conditions should avoid smoky areas and vigorous activity is not recommended where heavy smoke is present.

The cause of the fire is currently under investigation.