News Release

Lighting Strike Tree Causes Small Fire South of the Lawn Lake Area of Rocky Mountain National Park

Lightning strike tree south of the Lawn Lake area in Rocky Mountain National Park

Courtesy Rocky Mountain National Park

News Release Date: July 24, 2025

Contact: Kyle Patterson, Public Affairs Officer

Contact: Park Information Office, [phone]

At approximately 6 p.m. yesterday, Wednesday, July 23, Rocky Mountain National Park received a report of a potential lightning strike fire seen from Rainbow Curve on the east side of the park. Fire managers confirmed a small, single white plume in steep terrain approximately ¼ mile below treeline, in a remote location in the Lawn Lake area. There was high humidity and a mix of heavy and light rain in the park.   

Early this morning park fire staff hiked to the steep, remote area.  No values are at risk. The Roaring River Fire is currently a single smoldering tree, .01 acre, and is located south of the Lawn Lake area. Park fire staff have accessed the fire with the intent to contain it.

Fire restrictions reminder:  

Rocky Mountain National Park always has Stage 1 fire restrictions in place, which means that campfires are prohibited except within designated campfire rings inside picnic areas and drive-in campgrounds. The use of portable charcoal grills, wood fuel camp stoves, and propane/butane-fueled gas stoves is allowed.  Fireworks are always prohibited within Rocky Mountain National Park.   

Use caution and vigilance when having a fire. Never leave a campfire unattended. When done with a fire, use the drown and stir method to put it out. Pour water on the fire, use a shovel or stick to stir the coals, add more water and repeat until the coals are cool to touch.