Yosemite National Park’s Dome Fire is nearing full containment after burning for nearly a month near Wawona and Chilnualna Falls, close to the park’s southern entrance.
The wildfire has burned approximately 6,788 acres. Fire activity has slowed considerably, with the fire remaining within its established perimeter for several days. By Tuesday evening, October 13, the latest official update reported that the fire was 95% contained, an increase from earlier estimates that day.
Firefighting operations are gradually winding down as crews patrol containment lines, extinguish remaining hot spots, and remove equipment from remote wilderness areas. Teams are also repairing areas disturbed during suppression work to help restore natural terrain and reduce the risk of erosion.
Glacier Point Road reopened on October 10, allowing public traffic to resume. However, some trails and areas within the active fire footprint remain closed because of potential hazards, including damaged trees, lingering heat, and smoke.
Air quality has also improved as the fire’s activity decreases. Yosemite Valley, Yosemite West, Mariposa, Wawona, and El Portal were reporting good air quality for Tuesday into Wednesday, with conditions expected to remain favorable through the week.
The fire has had a tragic impact on the firefighting community. Helicopter pilots Greg King and Ryan Cutter died during the incident.
Officials estimated that full containment could be reached by October 17. However, containment does not mean a wildfire is completely extinguished. Crews may continue monitoring and addressing hot spots even after control lines surround the entire fire.
Visitors planning trips to Yosemite should check official park notices for current trail closures, road conditions, and fire-related safety restrictions.
