A major wildfire burning inside Yosemite National Park in California continues to challenge firefighters as crews work to contain the Dome Fire, which has burned thousands of acres in the park’s remote wilderness.
The fire began on September 15, 2026, north of Wawona Dome near the Chilnualna Falls Trailhead. By October 1, the blaze had reached 5,899 acres and was 40% contained, according to the latest CAL FIRE update.
Fire officials reported that the fire has been spreading through dense red fir and other forest fuels, with isolated torching, creeping fire and spotting observed in parts of the incident. Steep, rugged terrain and the remote location have made direct access difficult for ground crews.
Firefighters have been working from both the ground and air. Crews are constructing and strengthening containment lines while aviation resources are being used to help slow fire activity and support suppression operations.
The National Park Service reported that some of the recent acreage increase resulted from planned firing operations, in which firefighters intentionally burn vegetation in controlled areas to strengthen containment lines and improve safety. Officials said no roads, buildings, or utilities were under immediate threat as of the October 1 morning update.
The fire’s cause has been identified as a campfire. CAL FIRE lists the incident as an active wildfire in Mariposa County under the jurisdiction of the National Park Service.
The incident has also resulted in the deaths of two firefighters, according to official incident information. Their deaths have added a profound dimension of loss to an already difficult firefighting operation.
While Yosemite National Park remains open, some areas and trails near the fire have been closed, and smoke continues to affect portions of the park and surrounding areas. Visitors are advised to check current park conditions and closures before traveling into affected areas.
Fire crews continue working to strengthen containment and limit further growth of the Dome Fire. Cooler and more humid conditions were expected to temporarily reduce fire behavior, although officials warned that warmer and drier weather could increase fire activity again in the days ahead.
The Dome Fire remains an active and evolving wildfire, with firefighters continuing their efforts to protect Yosemite’s landscape and prevent further spread.
