Aspen Acres Fire Grows Across Southern Colorado
CUSTER COUNTY, Colo. — Firefighters continue battling the Aspen Acres Fire in southern Colorado as the rapidly spreading wildfire threatens communities and places Bishop Castle, one of the state’s best-known landmarks, within an active evacuation zone.
The wildfire, which started on June 29, 2026, has burned more than 81,850 acres and remains 0% contained, according to the latest incident reports. Fire officials say prolonged drought, critically dry vegetation, low humidity, and strong winds have combined to create dangerous fire conditions across the Wet Mountains.
Emergency crews remain focused on protecting lives, homes, and important infrastructure while working to slow the fire’s advance.
Bishop Castle in Evacuation Area
Bishop Castle, the hand-built stone and steel attraction created by Jim Bishop, is located within an area affected by mandatory evacuation orders.
Officials have not confirmed that the landmark has been damaged. However, firefighters continue monitoring fire activity nearby while prioritizing the protection of historic structures and surrounding communities.
Residents and visitors have been instructed to stay away from the evacuation zone until authorities determine it is safe to return.
Mandatory Evacuations Expanded
Mandatory evacuation orders remain in effect for several communities, including:
- Colorado City
- Beulah
- Rye
- San Isabel
- Lazy Acres
- Areas surrounding Bishop Castle
Authorities estimate that approximately 11,000 residents have been displaced by the wildfire.
Disaster assistance centers continue providing temporary shelter, food, medical care, and other essential services for evacuated families.
Firefighting Efforts Continue
More than 350 firefighters, assisted by state and federal agencies, remain engaged in suppression operations.
Current firefighting efforts include:
- Defending homes and critical infrastructure.
- Constructing containment lines with heavy equipment.
- Conducting aerial water and fire retardant drops.
- Monitoring changing weather and fire behavior.
Difficult terrain and rapidly shifting winds continue to challenge firefighters working across the fire perimeter.
Fire Status
| Information | Current Status |
|---|---|
| Fire Name | Aspen Acres Fire |
| Location | Pueblo and Custer counties, Colorado |
| Burned Area | 81,850+ acres |
| Containment | 0% |
| Structures Destroyed | More than 180 confirmed |
| Communities Under Evacuation | Colorado City, Beulah, Rye, San Isabel, Lazy Acres |
| Landmark at Risk | Bishop Castle |
Smoke, Air Quality, and Road Closures
Heavy smoke continues to affect air quality throughout parts of central Colorado.
Health officials recommend that older adults, young children, and individuals with respiratory or heart conditions reduce outdoor activity during periods of poor air quality.
Several highways remain closed or restricted to support firefighting operations, including sections of:
- State Highway 165
- State Highway 78
- State Highway 67
- State Highway 96
Drivers should check official transportation updates before traveling through affected areas.
Cause Under Investigation
Investigators believe the Aspen Acres Fire was human-caused, although the exact ignition source has not yet been determined.
Fire officials continue urging the public to follow all fire restrictions, avoid activities that could create sparks, and immediately report any signs of new wildfires.
Ongoing Response
Emergency crews remain focused on protecting communities while working to contain the wildfire.
Residents in evacuation zones should continue following official emergency alerts and should not return until authorities declare the area safe.
Further updates regarding containment, evacuation orders, road closures, and damage assessments are expected as firefighting operations continue.
Frequently Asked Questions
Has Bishop Castle been damaged?
As of the latest available information, officials have not confirmed any damage to Bishop Castle. The landmark remains inside an active evacuation zone due to the nearby wildfire.
How large is the Aspen Acres Fire?
The wildfire has burned more than 81,850 acres and remains 0% contained.
Which communities are under evacuation orders?
Mandatory evacuations include Colorado City, Beulah, Rye, San Isabel, Lazy Acres, and nearby areas around Bishop Castle.
Which roads are affected?
Portions of State Highways 165, 78, 67, and 96 remain closed or restricted to support emergency operations.
What should residents do?
Residents should follow all evacuation orders, avoid entering restricted areas, monitor official emergency updates, and stay alert for changing wildfire conditions.
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