News Release

Lightning Storms Ignite Fires in North Cascades National Park Service Complex

Date: June 26, 2026

SEDRO-WOOLLEY, Wash. —  On Wednesday, June 24, numerous lightning strikes occurred over several areas across North Cascades National Park Service Complex and surrounding areas. On Thursday four fires were observed within the park complex through air reconnaissance: Borderline, Rigby, View, and Little Beaver Fires. All four fires are located north of Little Beaver Creek and west of Ross Lake in steep, rough, and forested terrain. With each new fire start, firefighters respond quickly and aggressively to keep wildfires small, reducing threats to life and property. Wildland firefighters are actively working to suppress the fires and protect life, property, and natural and cultural resources. Fire management officials have ordered aviation resources, enhanced reconnaissance aircraft, and ground resources in locations where terrain is safe for firefighters.
 
There are no new closures or evacuations in place for the fires on the park complex. All visitor and information centers, areas, campgrounds, and trails are currently open to the public. Visitors should be aware of fire activity and check the park Fire Closures page prior to a visit for up-to-date trail and camp closure information.
 
Fire behavior is minimal with slight moisture and cooler temperatures across the area.

On Friday, June 25, six smokejumpers were ordered and deployed on the Borderline Fire (approx. ½ acre, 0% contained) and were assisted with aerial delivered water from a Type-3 helicopter. Firefighters continue to hold the fire within the current footprint and mop up is on-going. Aerial delivered water will continue as needed.
 
The Rigby and View Fires (both approx. 1/10 acre, 0% contained) continue to be supported by aviation resources. The Rigby Fire is a single snag and there was minimal smoke seen on the View Fire yesterday.  
 
The Little Beaver Fire (approx. 1/10 acre, 0% contained) is updrainage from the 2025 Perry Creek Fire and is burning in dead and downed wood. Yesterday approximately 40 cycles of aerial water were delivered from a Type-3 helicopter which will continue throughout the day today. Some smoke remains with little movement.

Fire Restrictions: Fire restrictions go into effect on Monday, June 29. Campfires or the ignition of wood, briquettes, or any fuel in fire pits, fire pans, and barbeque grills, are banned in all portions of North Cascades National Park Service Complex. Gas or propane stoves, grills, or lanterns are permitted in campgrounds and wilderness areas for the use of cooking if there is no flammable material within three feet of the device.
 
Smoke Outlook: Smoke may be visible from various locations around the Ross Lake area of the park complex. Air quality can change quickly.  For current smoke information, visit: https://fire.airnow.gov

Air Space Restrictions: Drones are prohibited in the area, especially during emergency fire response. If you fly, we can’t. Every time a drone is spotted near the fire all aircraft are grounded until we can be sure the drone is clear of this area: http://knowbeforeyoufly.org