Dome Fire in Yosemite Grows to 1,177 Acres Near Wawona

Chilnualna Falls Trail remains closed as additional fire management support heads to Yosemite.

The Dome Fire burning near Wawona in Yosemite National Park has grown to 1,177 acres, closing Chilnualna Falls Trail and nearby wilderness routes as firefighters contend with steep terrain and limited access.

CAL FIRE’s incident page continued to list the fire at 1,177 acres Thursday morning. The latest posted containment figure was 0 percent, reported Wednesday evening. The fire began September 15 north of Wawona Dome, and its cause remains under investigation.

California Interagency Incident Management Team 3 was mobilizing Thursday morning and was scheduled to assume command later in the day. The National Park Service has jurisdiction over the incident.

Firefighters working in the remote area Wednesday reported flames making uphill runs driven by wind and terrain, along with short-range spotting. CAL FIRE aircraft are supporting suppression efforts. The fire had been estimated at approximately 300 acres early Wednesday before the reported acreage increased to 1,177 that afternoon. CAL FIRE incident updates

For mountain residents and visitors planning a hike near Wawona, the immediate impact is the closure of Chilnualna Falls Trail. Routes leading from the top of the falls toward Buena Vista and Crescent lakes are also closed.

Yosemite’s current conditions page notes that the lakes remain reachable from the east. Anyone planning a wilderness trip in that area should check the park’s closure map before choosing a route. Yosemite trail conditions

In its initial September 15 announcement, Yosemite placed the fire approximately a quarter-mile north of Chilnualna Falls and reported that it was visible from Wawona Road, the continuation of Highway 41 through the park. Ground crews and aircraft were working to suppress it, with firefighters using natural barriers to establish lines.

That announcement reported no immediate threat to infrastructure or developed areas. That assessment was issued before the subsequent increase in reported acreage. Yosemite’s September 15 announcement

The park’s road-status page lists Wawona Road as open, while noting that its online listings reflect planned or long-term closures. Drivers can obtain the most up-to-date road information by calling 209-372-0200, then pressing 1 and 1.

Yosemite also advises that the Dome Fire may produce smoky conditions around the park. Residents and visitors can check the AirNow Fire and Smoke Map for air-quality information and consult Yosemite’s current conditions page for road and trail updates.

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Feature Photo: The Dome Fire burns near Chilnualna Falls in Yosemite National Park. The fire has prompted closures of the falls trail and nearby wilderness routes.
Credit: National Park Service, unless the original post names another photographer.