Sand Creek Fire

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The Sand Creek fire was started by lightning and first reported on June 15th, 2020. It is located 21 miles northwest of Pagosa Springs, in the Piedra Special Management Area. It is currently estimated at 107 acres in size and is burning within an area previously burned during the Little Sand Fire of 2012. Smokejumpers parachuted into the fire area on June 16th. After assessing the fire on the ground, the decision was made not to engage due to hazardous snags (standing dead/damaged trees), heavy fuel loads, and difficult terrain. 

The Sand Creek fire has received significant moisture and more is predicted. The fire is now at 60% containment and will not be called out until Fire managers are certain no heat remains. The fire area closure has been lifted as of July 27th and all roads and trails are open.

Smoke from the Sand Creek fire will be visible during the duration of the incident. Smoke is expected to be visible from the Piedra Road and the community of Pagosa Springs. Wildfire smoke may affect your health. For more information, please go to: https://www.colorado.gov/pacific/cdphe/wood-smoke-and-health