Sand Creek Fire Reaches Maverick Mountain; Ski Lift Damaged, Lodge Still Standing

POLARIS, Mont. — The Sand Creek Fire has reached Maverick Mountain as firefighters continue working to protect structures and other critical infrastructure threatened by the advancing wildfire.

According to a Tuesday morning wildfire update, the southeast corner of the Sand Creek Fire has reached Maverick Mountain. Structure protection between Elkhorn Hot Springs and Maverick Mountain has been a primary focus for firefighters ahead of the advancing fire.

Crews have placed pumps, hoses and sprinkler kits around structures throughout the area. Smokejumpers have also constructed handline to connect with the Sand Creek Trail.

Firefighters will continue point protection of critical values at risk Tuesday while fire managers look for opportunities to establish indirect fireline along the south side of the fire. Firing operations could also be used to reduce fuels between established lines and the active fire if conditions allow.

Fire Burning Within Maverick Mountain Ski Area

According to a Facebook update from Maverick Mountain, the fire is actively burning within the boundaries of the ski area.

Maverick Mountain also reported that the Maverick lift has sustained damage, although the full extent of that damage is not yet known.

Importantly, the Maverick Mountain lodge has not burned down, according to the ski area's update.

Additional assessments will likely be needed before the extent of damage to the ski area's infrastructure can be determined.

Critical Fire Weather Expected Tuesday

Firefighters are facing another challenging day of weather conditions.

A Red Flag Warning for critical burning conditions is in effect Tuesday from noon until 9 p.m. Temperatures are expected to reach the low 80s, with very low relative humidity and wind gusts potentially reaching 30 mph.

Thunderstorms are possible Wednesday, adding another concern for crews working the fire.

Officials report that the Sand Creek Fire is currently backing downhill toward the Pioneer Mountains Scenic Byway.

Community Meetings Scheduled

Two community meetings have been scheduled to provide residents with updated information about the wildfire and firefighting operations.

The first will be held Wednesday, August 12, at Jackson Elementary School at 6 p.m.

A second meeting will be held Thursday, August 13, at the Wise River Community Center at 6 p.m.

Firefighters will continue structure protection efforts around Maverick Mountain, Elkhorn Hot Springs and other threatened areas as conditions allow.

Southwestern Montana News will continue following the Sand Creek Fire and provide additional information on damage at Maverick Mountain and firefighting operations as confirmed details become available.