Willow Fire Active 2026

DAILY UPDATES:  English (pdf)    |  

MAPS:  Public Information   |   Progression

INITIAL SITUATION:  The Willow Fire located approximately 6 miles west of Leadville, CO, started on June 28, 2026. 

CURRENT SITUATION: Suppression repair continues along the north, east, and southern portions of the fire’s perimeter. Crews patrol established containment lines for any threats. Crews will respond to any initial attack as requested.
 

EVACUATIONS: For current closure and evacuation information, please follow Lake County Office of Emergency Management. 

Lakecountyco.gov |  Sign up for Emergency Alerts  | Willow Fire Evacuation & Road Closures Map

ROAD CLOSURES: While forest roads within the fire perimeter are closed to the public, main thoroughfares remain open for public use. Motorists should remain alert for increased fire traffic in the Willow Fire area. 

 Colorado Department of Transportation road map

FOREST AREA CLOSURE: 
The #WillowFire is currently at 67% contained, as of this morning, and the closure area for the fire has been significantly reduced. The new closure is effective beginning today, July 30, 2026 at 2 p.m. and lasting until September 30, 2026, unless rescinded. 
Certain recreation sites and trails continue to be closed for public safety. These include the following:
• Mount Massive Wilderness
• Windsor Lake Trail #1490
• Highline/Native Lake Trail #1489
• North Mount Elbert Trail #1484
• Willow Creek Trailhead
• North Halfmoon Creek Trail #1485 (Mount Massive)
• Elbert Creek Campground
• Halfmoon East Campground
• Halfmoon West Campground
Official forest orders and maps can always be found on the PSICC alerts web page at https://www.fs.usda.gov/r02/psicc/alerts.
 Forest Order & Map (pdf)   

KNOW WHERE YOU CAN FLY: Drones pose a serious risk to firefighting and can cause air operations to cease. When drones interfere with firefighting efforts, a wildfire has the potential to grow larger and cause more damage. A FAA Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) is in effect and any private aircraft or drone that violates the TFR could face serious criminal charges. For more information on drones the public can visit the FAA’s website at www.KnowBeforeYouFly.org “If you fly, we can’t!”