The Sisi Fire, burning in remote terrain within the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest and North Cascades National Park Service Complex, has reached 4,743 acres with containment at just 34% as of October 15, 2026. The fire is located approximately 10 miles northwest of Stehekin, Washington, in one of the most rugged and inaccessible areas of the Pacific Northwest.

Origin and Spread

The fire ignited on the night of August 14, 2026, from a lightning strike. The U.S. Forest Service launched an aggressive initial attack using a Type 1 helicopter and rappeler support within hours, and aerial firefighters achieved early success slowing the blaze. However, severe hazards — including group tree torching and rolling debris on slopes exceeding 50% grade — forced crews to disengage for safety.

On August 20, critical fire weather triggered significant growth that outpaced initial containment efforts. The fire has since been managed under a full-suppression strategy focused on keeping the fire within the smallest practicable footprint while minimizing risk to firefighters and aviators.

Current Fire Behavior

As of the most recent update, fire behavior has moderated considerably. The fire is backing down steep slopes toward the Stehekin River and creeping along Agnes Creek, with current behavior described as moderate, backing, creeping, and flanking. The greatest remaining potential for growth lies along the southern and eastern portions of the perimeter, where active heat, continuous fuels, and steep terrain align.

Fuels in the fire area are complex and varied — a mosaic of mature Douglas fir, true fir species, and ponderosa pine, with ceanothus and thick conifer reproduction understory. Large snags and heavy downed fuel loads are common throughout, and some fine fuels remain seasonally dry.

Resources and Closures

As of October 13, command of the incident transferred from the U.S. Forest Service to the North Cascades National Park Service Complex, and updates to the InciWeb page will be issued only when significant changes occur. Approximately 32 personnel remain assigned to the incident.

Significant closures remain in effect:

  • The Pacific Crest Trail is closed between the North Cascades NP/Glacier Peak Wilderness boundary and High Bridge along the Agnes Creek corridor.
  • Additional road and trail closures are in effect throughout the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest.
  • Closures are also in effect within North Cascades National Park Service Complex.

Communities near the fire — including Lucerne, Holden Village, and Stehekin — remain affected by access restrictions. Anyone planning to visit the area should check the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest website and the North Cascades National Park fire closures page before traveling.

For information, contact the North Cascades Public Affairs Office at noca_publicaffairs@nps.gov or call (509) 682-4900.