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Fire crews continue to aggressively fight the Shelly Fire, which is at 313 acres and 0% containment. Active fire was seen last night until 2:30 AM, and around 3:00 AM, the fire showed moderate activity. Crews are making progress this morning along the Pacific Crest Trail. Smoke has settled into the drainages, so we are not able to see the activity on the spot fires on the northeast side of the main fire. The fire is backing down into Middle Creek drainage. We anticipate fire activity increasing later today as temperatures increase. Steep, rugged terrain is making access difficult. 

“The Forest Service is taking an aggressive stance on fighting the Shelly Fire,” states Chris Christofferson, Acting Forest Supervisor for the Klamath National Forest. “We will continue to do so while providing for firefighter and public safety. We also acknowledge the concern of our neighbors and are working to keep the fire away from private commercial timber ground.”

The Shelly Fire began the afternoon of July 3, 2024, in the Marble Mountains Wilderness. The cause of the fire is still under investigation. Forest Service officials anticipate a long duration fire since the fire is burning in steep, rugged terrain within the wilderness that by definition does not have roads through it. Fire crews have to hike in, smokejump in, or attack the fire from the air.

If you are out on the forest today, please pay attention to where you are in relation to the Shelly Fire, heed any changes in wind direction, be mindful of fire crews and equipment, and remember all fireworks are not permitted on forest lands anytime of the year. 

Pacific Crest Trail hikers are asked to avoid the section between Etna Summit and Shackleford Trail.

A fire information hotline has been set up at 530-643-0279. A fire information hotline has been set up at 530-643-0279. Please visit www.facebook.com/KlamathNF and Twitter @KlamathNF for updates.