News Release

Sourdough Fire Evening Update

Date: July 29, 2023
Contact: Katy Hooper

Warm and sunny afternoon weather, increased winds, and low humidity increased fire behavior on the lightning-caused Sourdough Fire. The fire is approximately 5 acres. Park officials have closed the Sourdough Trail to the junction with Big Beaver Trail and Sourdough and Pierce Mountain camps due to visitor safety. 

The Wenatchee Rappelers are working the incident with aviation support. Crews will utilize four helicopters and five Fire Boss scooper planes for aerially delivered water to support firefighters on the ground. Steep and rugged terrain may limit firefighters to further safely engage directly on the fire’s edge. 

There are predicted southerly winds overnight with increased relative humidity. Sunday morning will be partly cloudy with the return of afternoon sunshine. Slightly cooler temperatures are expected for Sunday.

Fire personnel continue to monitor the area for additional fire starts from recent and predicted storms throughout the area for the next few days. 

Visitors should be aware of fire restrictions in areas of the park complex. Campfires or the ignition of wood, briquettes, or any fuel in fire pits, fire pans, and barbeque grills, are banned in in all portions of North Cascades National Park Service Complex – North Cascades National Park, Ross Lake National Recreation Area, and Lake Chelan National Recreation Area. This includes all National Park Service lands and campgrounds along State Route 20 as well as Hozomeen and the entire Stehekin Valley. If you see smoke or flames dial 911 or report to a park visitor or information center. Contact the Wilderness Information Center for trail information at [e-mail].