The Pioneer Fire, initially reported on June 8th on private land northwest of Chelan, rapidly extended onto the US Forest Service land, including wilderness areas. Fire management teams have adopted a full-suppression strategy to protect private properties, essential public infrastructure, and valuable natural and recreational resources. This approach also prioritizes minimizing risks to both responders and the public. A contributing factor to the full-suppression strategy is the fire’s suspected human cause and its origin on private land. Local businesses are being contracted to support the suppression efforts, boosting the local economy. Chelan and Manson communities remain open and welcoming to visitors.
Early direct attack efforts faced challenges due to the extremely steep and remote terrain on the east side of Lake Chelan, accessible only by boat or air. Current full suppression tactics involve a combination of direct and indirect methods, along with point protection strategies, implemented where success is most likely and safety can be maintained. Firefighters are actively constructing firelines and deploying hose lays, supported by water-dropping aircraft to combat the blaze.
Although a significant portion of the fire is within wilderness areas, crews have been diligently assessing and implementing structure protection measures around Lake Chelan and towards Stehekin, enhancing defensibility. These assessment and protection efforts are ongoing up the valley towards Stehekin Ranch.
Chelan County is providing continuous updates on evacuation levels as the fire situation evolves. For the most current evacuation information by area, please refer to the ‘Announcements’ tab on official Chelan County resources.
The Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest and the National Park Service have issued closure orders for areas affected by the Pioneer Fire. Detailed information on these closures can be found at: https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/okawen/alerts-notices and https://www.nps.gov/noca/planyourvisit/fire-closures.htm.
The Pacific Crest Trail is also closed in the fire area. For further details, please visit: closures.pcta.org/. Stay informed about the Pioneer Fire situation and refer to official sources for the most accurate and up-to-date information and Pioneer Fire Chelan Map details as they become available.
