The Diamond Creek Fire in the Pasayten Wilderness 18 miles north of Mazama, has grown to 350 acres.  The fire is burning in the steep slopes of the Diamond Creek drainage where it intersects with Lost River.  It is about four miles from the Billy Goat Trailhead.

Public Information Officer Shannon O'Brien said a team of wildfire specialists were planning to assess the area Wednesday by helicopter to determine a strategy to fight the wilderness fire.   The area is prime habitat for threatened and endangered species such as Canada lynx and bull trout.

The fire was reported Saturday and is believed to be human caused.  The fire is likely to spread beyond the wilderness boundary.

Smokejumpers have cleared brush around a bridge and some cabins, and slowed the fire to help evacuate hikers and outfitters.

Hidden Lakes Cabins in 1997 Photo credit: USFS Deanna Epperson
Hidden Lakes Cabins in 1997 Photo credit: USFS Deanna Epperson
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Billy Goat Trail Head and the following trails are closed to provide for public and firefighter safety.
- Hidden Lakes #477
- Larch Creek #502 from trailhead to McCall Trail #548
- Drake Creek #502B
- Burch Mt. #502A
- Dollarwatch #451

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