Mount Tom Creek Fire Active 2026

Situation: The lightning-caused Mt. Tom Creek Fire is burning high on a remote mountain slope on the west side of Olympic National Park. The area is in steep, densely forested terrain approximately five miles west‑northwest of Mount Olympus. Backpackers first reported the fire on June 24th.

The fire is approximately six miles from the Hoh Rain Forest administrative site. The Hoh Rain Forest Visitor Center, campground, and trails all remain open to the public.

Firefighters are using indirect confinement tactics as part of a full-suppression strategy. These tactics include removing vegetation around recreation and administrative infrastructure and using helicopters to drop water to cool host spots and keep the fire within its current footprint. The fire is constrained by natural features on a couple flanks, where fire managers have determined it is 27% contained.

High relative humidity and periodic precipitation may constrain fire behavior, but are unlikely to extinguish the fire.

Smoke: Smoke may be visible from various locations on the Olympic Peninsula. Air quality can change quickly.  For current smoke information, visit: https://fire.airnow.gov

Fire Restrictions: Olympic National Park implemented fire restrictions June 25th. Dispersed and backcountry fires are prohibited. Fires within established metal fire rings in developed campgrounds and picnic areas are exempt from this prohibition. Propane and gas stoves are allowed, if operated at least three feet away from flammable vegetation and forest litter.

Air Space Restrictions: A Temporary Flight Restriction is in place. If you fly, we can’t. Every time a drone is spotted near the fire all aircraft are grounded until we can be sure the drone is clear of this area: http://knowbeforeyoufly.org