News Release

Firefighters Responding to Lightning Ignited Fires in Saguaro National Park's Rincon Mountains

Date: August 14, 2020
Contact: Andy L Fisher, 520-733-5139

Tucson, AZ – Saguaro National Park is responding to two lightning fires reported following a thunderstorm that passed through the Rincon Mountains on August 13. The fires are burning in remote areas, in high elevation areas within the Saguaro Wilderness. Smoke may be visible from Tucson, Redington Pass, Mescal, and the surrounding area.

The Spud Rock Fire was reported on August 13 at approximately 4:30 p.m. It is estimated to be approximately 10 acres. It is estimated to be located within a network of trails in the Manning Camp area, approximately .2 miles west of the junction of the Heartbreak Ridge Trail and the Switchback Trail that leads to the Spud Rock Campground.

The Mica Bowl Fire was reported on August 14 at approximately 9 a.m. It is estimated to be approximately two acres. The preliminary location is estimated to be just west of the Italian Springs Trail near the park boundary with the Coronado National Forest.

Firefighters are currently monitoring and assessing the fires. Fire behavior is currently low, following yesterday’s rainstorm. The Rincon Remote Automated Weather Station (RAWS), located near Manning Camp, received 1.1 inches of rain.

Air attack flew over the fires to conduct an initial size-up report this morning. Firefighters will be hiking in to the remote backcountry area to assess the fires tomorrow so that fire managers can take action as needed.

There are no immediate threats to structures at this time. The Mica Bowl Fire is estimated to be approximately 0.8 mile southeast of Manning Camp, a backcountry cabin located in Saguaro National Park.

There are no trail closures at this time. Backcountry hikers and campers should be aware of their surroundings and are encouraged to check with the Rincon Mountain Visitor Center for current conditions and updates on potential trail closures.

For updated information please call the park’s Fire Information Hotline at [phone].