Quartz Ridge Fire 2023

The Quartz Ridge Fire on the San Juan National Forest, Pagosa Ranger District was reported on August 5th, 2023 at 9:01am. The lightning started fire is located approximately three miles into the South San Juan Wilderness, 13 miles northeast of Pagosa Springs, Colorado.

Firefighters are unable to directly engage the fire due to the remote location, and firefighter risk associated with the terrain and working in dead and down trees. Fire managers developed a strategic plan to suppress the fire should it move into terrain more favorable to engagement. 

The Quartz Ridge Fire is expected to remain in a very remote location of the South San Juan Wilderness. The Quartz Creek Trail (NFST#571) is no longer closed and has been re-opened to recreational use. District Staff remind visitors that the presence of smoldering logs and dispersed areas of smoke may remain and be visible from the trail. Please use caution when traveling through previously burned areas on the Pagosa Springs Ranger District.

The Quartz Fire was called contained on November 21, 2023.