Acreage Increase For Empire Fire In Yosemite
Yosemite, CA — The lightning caused Empire Fire burning in Yosemite National Park is up to 412 acres.
It ignited on July 31st about a mile south of Bridalveil Campground and east of Alder Creek. The fire is being managed for ecological benefit and being allowed to burn out naturally where possible. The fire has been burning in heavy pockets of dead and down timber. The fire is projected to grow along the northeast and southeast flanks. Drift smoke is visible in the nearby region. The Alder Creek Trail is closed from Bridalveil Campground to the junction of Deer Camp trail. There are no threats to infrastructure at Bridalveil Campground and the other hiking trails in the area remain open at this time. Park officials report that the Empire Fire is situated in a fire-adapted wilderness area and allowing fires to burn naturally will improve the forest health.
