Aspen Acres Fire Continues to Grow
CUSTER COUNTY, Colo. — The Aspen Acres Fire continues to threaten communities across southern Colorado, prompting mandatory evacuations and raising concerns for the safety of Bishop Castle, one of the state’s most recognizable roadside landmarks.
The wildfire, which began on June 29, 2026, has burned more than 81,800 acres and remains 0% contained, according to the latest available incident information. Fire officials say prolonged drought, extremely dry vegetation, low humidity, and strong winds have contributed to rapid fire growth across the Wet Mountains region.
Emergency crews remain focused on protecting lives, homes, and critical infrastructure as the wildfire continues to spread.
Bishop Castle Under Threat
Bishop Castle lies within an area affected by mandatory evacuation orders as firefighters work to slow the advancing wildfire.
The hand-built stone and steel landmark, created over several decades by Jim Bishop, is among the notable sites facing potential risk as flames continue moving through nearby forested terrain.
Fire officials have not confirmed damage to the castle itself, but they continue to monitor conditions closely while prioritizing the protection of surrounding communities and historic structures.
Mandatory Evacuations Remain in Effect
Authorities have issued evacuation orders for several communities threatened by the wildfire, including:
- Colorado City
- Beulah
- Rye
- San Isabel
- Lazy Acres
- Areas surrounding Bishop Castle
Emergency shelters and disaster assistance centers have been established to provide temporary housing, food, medical care, and other support for displaced residents.
Officials estimate that approximately 11,000 people have been affected by evacuation orders.
Firefighting Operations Continue
More than 350 firefighters are working alongside state and federal agencies to contain the wildfire.
Current suppression efforts include:
- Structure protection around threatened communities.
- Construction of firelines using heavy equipment.
- Aerial firefighting operations with air tankers and water-scooping aircraft.
- Ongoing monitoring of changing weather and fire behavior.
Steep terrain, low humidity, and shifting winds continue to make containment efforts challenging.
Fire Status
| Information | Current Status |
|---|---|
| Fire Name | Aspen Acres Fire |
| Location | Pueblo and Custer counties, Colorado |
| Burned Area | More than 81,800 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 and Road Closures
Smoke from the wildfire continues to affect air quality across parts of central Colorado.
Health officials recommend limiting outdoor activities, particularly for:
- Older adults.
- Young children.
- People with asthma or other respiratory conditions.
Several highways remain closed or restricted to allow emergency crews to operate safely, including portions of:
- State Highway 165
- State Highway 78
- State Highway 67
- State Highway 96
Motorists should check official transportation updates before traveling through affected areas.
Cause Under Investigation
Authorities believe the Aspen Acres Fire was human-caused, although investigators have not released details regarding the exact ignition source.
Officials continue urging residents and visitors to comply with all fire restrictions, avoid activities that could create sparks, and immediately report any new signs of wildfire.
Ongoing Response
Firefighters remain focused on protecting communities, homes, and significant landmarks while working to slow the fire’s spread.
Residents in evacuation zones are encouraged to follow official emergency alerts and avoid returning until authorities declare the area safe.
Further updates on fire containment, evacuation orders, and road conditions are expected as firefighting operations continue.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bishop Castle damaged?
At the latest available update, officials had not confirmed any damage to Bishop Castle. The landmark remains within an evacuation area as firefighters continue suppression efforts nearby.
Where is the Aspen Acres Fire burning?
The wildfire is burning across portions of Pueblo County and Custer County in southern Colorado.
How large is the fire?
The Aspen Acres Fire has burned more than 81,800 acres and remains uncontained.
Which communities are under evacuation orders?
Mandatory evacuations include Colorado City, Beulah, Rye, San Isabel, Lazy Acres, and nearby areas.
What should residents do?
Residents should follow evacuation orders immediately, monitor official emergency updates, avoid closed roads, and stay away from active fire zones.
SEO Keywords: Bishop Castle wildfire, Bishop Castle fire Colorado, Aspen Acres Fire update, Colorado wildfire today, Custer County wildfire, Pueblo County fire, Bishop Castle evacuation, Colorado fire news, Highway 165 closure, Colorado wildfire update.
