New Fire Detected in Kings Canyon National Park

For Immediate Release – July 16, 2012
Anne Birkholz (559) 565-3704, Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks
New Fire Detected in Kings Canyon National Park

Fire managers detected a new fire on Sunday July 15, 2012 in Kings Canyon National Park. The Woods Creek Fire is burning between 8,300 and 9,300 feet in elevation about 8 miles northeast of Roads End out of Cedar Grove. It is located north of the Woods Creek trail just west of Window Peak and Castle Domes. The Woods Creek fire reached an estimated 300 acres on the morning of July 16 and is currently
being suppressed. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.

A portion of the Woods Creek trail has been closed beginning above Paradise Valley continuing east to the junction with the Pacific Crest Trail. No portion of the Pacific Crest Trail is currently closed.

Fire growth has been predominately to the northeast from the ignition point near the Woods Creek Trail. The fire is burning in scattered mixed conifer with areas of rock. The fire is visible in Cedar Grove and other locations in the Kings Canyon. However, there are currently no threats to life or property.

The southern Sierra Nevada is currently experiencing drought conditions as a result of the significantly low snow pack received last winter. Visitors to the parks can assist in preventing unwanted fires by following fire restrictions and taking extra care with campfires and cooking stoves.