Single Publication

Beauty Creek Fire

Idaho Panhandle National Forests, Coeur d’Alene River Ranger District
Fire Information: 208-557-8813
https://inciweb.wildfire.gov/incident-information/idipf-beauty-creek-fire
July 23, 2023

Location: Approximately 3 miles up Beauty Creek Rd, off the northeast tip of Coeur d’Alene Lake
Start Date: 7/21/2023
Cause: Under Investigation
Size: 13 acres Containment: 0%
Total Personnel: 30+ Engines: 5 Helicopters: 2 Hand Crews: 1

The Beauty Creek Fire was reported by the public on the evening of 7/21/23. It is approximately 13 acres and burning in heavy timber. Initial Attack efforts include a Type 1 and Type 3 Helicopter, five staffed engines, a water tender, a falling module, and a hand crew. The Panhandle Hotshots, local district Forest Service firefighters, and Idaho Department of Lands firefighters have worked together to construct handline around approximately 75% of the fire. The hotshot crew is being replaced by a Miller handcrew. Active backing and flanking fire behavior is skirting the lines, so additional work is needed before any containment can be achieved.
The cause of the fire is currently under investigation by Federal Law Enforcement.

CLOSURES AND SPECIAL MESSAGES
Although official closures are not yet in place, road guards are working on Forest Service Road 453. Temporary emergency closures may be needed as there is active fire along the roadway. Please avoid this area to protect the safety and welfare of the public and provide for safe firefighting efforts and access. Continued aviation support will likely be needed, so boaters of all kinds are cautioned to avoid the Beauty Bay area. Failure to clear out when fire aircraft are working can cause delays that waste valuable time and put boots on the ground at additional risk.