DURANGO, Colo. — A new wildfire, the Needles Fire, is burning in San Juan National Forest near Purgatory Resort, according to forest officials.
The fire is now six acres and 30% contained after sparking Wednesday. Durango Fire Rescue said they responded to assist with suppression in the trees near Lift 1 and Lift 2 at Purgatory Resort. No structures have been damaged. The resort closed Oct. 5 following their summer and fall season. They're scheduled opening day is Nov. 21.
Aircraft operations will continue Thursday. Smoke will be visible from Hwy 550. San Juan National Forest officials said there are no area or road closures in effect, but forest visitors should exercise extreme caution and avoid the area if possible.