News Release

Fire Crews Responding to Sourdough Fire

Date: August 6, 2026
Contact: Public Affairs Office, 360-565-3005

PORT ANGELES, Wash. —  The Sourdough Fire is burning 0.75 acres on a steep, forested slope on the north side of Olympic National Park. A Type 1 K-Max helicopter and eight rappelers are currently working to contain the fire. The Aurora Ridge Trail, North Fork Sol Duc Trail, and Eagle Lakes and Aurora Springs backcountry campsites are closed. There are no evacuation orders in place.
 
The fire is burning on the southern slope of Sourdough Mountain, approximately 0.5 miles below the Aurora Ridge Trail. Fire behavior remains minimal, with crews observing creeping, backing, and smoldering in ground vegetation and duff. Crews are currently working to determine the cause of the fire, which was reported on August 5.

Public and firefighter safety remain the top priority as crews work to contain this fire. A Type 5 Incident Commander is covering the fire. The Coast Guard is assisting with helicopter operations on Lake Crescent.
 
Weather: Hot and dry weather is expected to continue through Saturday.
 
Fire Restrictions: Due to increased fire activity and dry vegetation, Stage 2 fire restrictions will begin tomorrow, August 7. All campfires will be prohibited within Olympic National Park and Olympic National Forest. Propane and gas stoves are allowed, if operated at least three feet away from flammable vegetation and forest litter.
 
Air Space Restrictions: Firefighters request that no drones are flown near firefighting operations, including on Lake Crescent. If you fly, we can’t. Every time a drone is spotted near operations, all aircraft are grounded until we can be sure the drone is clear of this area: http://knowbeforeyoufly.org
 
Closures: The Aurora Ridge Trail, the unnamed trail that connects Aurora Ridge Trail to US Highway 101, North Fork Sol Duc Trail, Eagles Lakes Campsite, and Aurora Springs Campsite are closed. There are no evacuation orders.
 
Smoke Outlook: The Sourdough Fire is producing minimal smoke. Smoke from other wildfires is prevalent across the Olympic Peninsula. Air quality can change quickly.  For current smoke information, visit: https://fire.airnow.gov
 
How You Can Help: Creating defensible space around your home is the best way to reduce wildfire risk and help firefighters. Learn how at: https://www.ready.gov/wildfires.