Elder 1 fire burning in Lolo National Forest grows to 1,221 acres, 34% containment and steady

UPDATE: August 2, 2026 3:31 p.m.

The Elder 1 fire, burning 7 miles southwest of Frenchtown in Rock Creek, grew to 1,221 acres with 34% containment.

Fire crews strengthened the containment line and prepared for the weather shifts this weekend. 

Night operations patrolled and monitored the fire in response to the winds continuing through the evening. 

Crews will continue to patrol for areas of concern.

There are 284 total personnel on the Elder 1 Fire.

UPDATE: July 31, 2026 9:25 a.m.

The Elder 1 fire, burning 7 miles southwest of Frenchtown in Rock Creek, grew to 1,034 acres by Friday, according to an update from the Lolo National Forest.

The fire is 14% contained and was started from lightning, according to the update. There are 232 personnel at the scene, it added.

MISSOULA, Mont. - The Elder 1 fire, burning 7 miles southwest of Frenchtown in the Lolo National Forest, grew from 318 acres to 510 acres overnight, according to the U.S. Forest Service. 

The lightning-caused fire sparked on July 24. 

Northern Rockies Complex Incident Management Team 1 took over command of the fire on Tuesday morning. 

A temporary flight restriction is in place over the fire area, the forest service said. 

"For your safety and that of firefighting resources, Forest fire officials are encouraging the public to stay out of the immediate area and avoid unnecessary travel down Deep Creek Road," Lolo National Forest said. "Agency officials are discussing the implementation of a temporary area closure for the fire area."

Article originally published on July 28, 2026 9:28 a.m.