Dome Fire Yosemite Today, October 2, 2026: Wildfire Reaches 5,855 Acres as Crews Continue Containment Operations
The Dome Fire in Yosemite National Park remains active on Friday, October 2, 2026, as firefighters continue working to contain the wildfire in the park’s rugged terrain.
The fire has burned approximately 5,855 acres and is 40% contained, according to the latest available update. Firefighters continue to work on containment lines while monitoring fire behavior and smoke conditions across the park.
Dome Fire Yosemite Today: Latest Fire Conditions
The Dome Fire was discovered on September 15 and has continued to spread through portions of Yosemite’s wilderness.
The National Park Service reported on October 1 that the fire had grown partly because of planned backfiring operations designed to strengthen control lines. Crews have continued firing operations near Glacier Point Road and the Bridalveil Creek Trail, while other teams work to improve containment lines.
Firefighters are also using drones equipped with infrared sensors to identify hotspots during both daytime and nighttime operations.
Despite the size of the fire, the National Park Service reported that no roads, buildings or utilities were under immediate threat in its October 1 update.
Yosemite Firefighters Continue Suppression Efforts
The terrain around the Dome Fire presents challenges for firefighters because portions of the fire are located in rugged and remote areas.
Crews are constructing and strengthening fire lines while using natural features, including rocky terrain, to help slow the fire’s spread. Earlier updates from the National Park Service described crews working around Bridalveil Creek, Empire Meadows and Horse Ridge.
The fire has also produced smoke across portions of Yosemite, with weather and changing winds influencing where smoke accumulates.
Yosemite National Park Closures
Yosemite National Park remains open and operating normally overall, but several areas have been closed because of the Dome Fire.
Glacier Point Road is closed because of reduced visibility from smoke and to provide a safer environment for firefighting operations. The Four Mile Trail and Panorama Trail remain open to hikers accessing Glacier Point.
The Chilnualna Falls Trail and trails leading from the top of Chilnualna Falls toward Buena Vista and Crescent Lakes are also closed because of the fire. Other areas around the southern portion of the park remain subject to restrictions.
Visitors should check the National Park Service’s latest closure information before traveling.
Dome Fire Cause and Investigation
The Dome Fire was discovered on September 15, 2026. Recent reporting citing fire officials says the blaze was caused by an unattended campfire.
The fire has also been associated with a tragic firefighting helicopter crash. Two pilots were killed on September 20 when a helicopter supporting Dome Fire operations crashed in Yosemite. The FAA and National Transportation Safety Board are investigating the crash.
The helicopter crash was a separate aviation incident that occurred during firefighting operations and should not be confused with the origin of the wildfire.
What Visitors Should Know
People visiting Yosemite should follow all posted closures and instructions from park rangers.
Visitors should not enter closed trails or areas designated for firefighting operations. Unauthorized drones are also prohibited around active wildfire operations because they can interfere with firefighting aircraft.
Anyone experiencing smoke should monitor official air-quality information and follow park guidance.
Dome Fire Yosemite Today: Latest Update
As of October 2, the Dome Fire remains active at approximately 5,855 acres and 40% containment. Firefighters continue containment and suppression work, while Yosemite remains open overall with several important road and trail restrictions.
The situation can change as weather, wind and fire behavior develop. Visitors should consult the National Park Service for the latest fire, closure and travel information before entering affected areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
How large is the Dome Fire today?
The latest October 2 update puts the fire at approximately 5,855 acres, with containment at 40%.
Is Yosemite National Park closed?
No. Yosemite remains open and operating normally overall, although several roads and trails are closed because of the Dome Fire.
Is Glacier Point Road open?
No. Glacier Point Road remains closed because of smoke-related visibility and ongoing firefighting operations.
What caused the Dome Fire?
Recent reporting citing fire officials says the fire was caused by an unattended campfire.
Are firefighters still working on the fire?
Yes. Firefighters continue containment operations, including work on control lines and planned firing operations in designated area