06/10/25 Afternoon Update — The Montana DNRC provided a detailed update on the Hilger Valley Fire Tuesday afternoon.
Updated mapping now estimates the acres burned at around 288 acres. The fire is believed to have been human-caused.
One hundred and ten total personnel have been assigned to the fire, headed by the DNRC County Assist Team with Incident Commander Dave Hamilton. On Tuesday afternoon, fire resources included 10 engines, one module, four helicopters, three hand crews, two dozers, and two tenders.
(Watch fire crews battle the Hilger Valley Fire)
"Multiple aircraft will be scooping water from Holter Lake to support firefighting efforts. Fire managers ask that the boaters stay clear of aircraft during these operations for safety," said the DNRC in a press release.
The fire is being managed under full suppression strategy. Firefighters are building containment lines, which are being reinforced by the retardant line applied on Monday from air tankers. Helicopters are continuing to drop water along the edge to help with containment and cool hotspots.
(Watch viewer video of helicopters making water drops on the Hilger Valley Fire. CREDIT: JESSE ATKISON)
Fire officials report moderate fire behavior with creeping and isolated tree torching. Crews are concerned with the predicted hot weather and the chance for afternoon thunderstorms that could produce gusty winds.
06/10/25 Morning Update — The Hilger Valley Fire was estimated at 318 acres as of early Tuesday morning, according to fire officials. That area burned would be roughly equivalent to 240 football fields.
Fire officials told MTN they will be "throwing everything at it" on Tuesday to prevent the spread. The public should avoid the Gates of the Mountains Marina as it can hinder fire suppression efforts.
Additional air resources will be joining the crews already fighting the fire, which include: air tankers; a very large air tanker (VLAT); helicopters; smokejumpers; and grounds crews and engines from federal, state and local agencies
(Watch fire crews battle the Hilger Valley Fire)
(Watch viewer video of helicopters making water drops on the Hilger Valley Fire. CREDIT: JESSE ATKISON)
The Hilger Valley Fire was first discovered by local and DNRC engines on Monday, June 9 at 2:10 p.m.
"The public is advised not to stop along I-15 or park near the Gates of the Mountains Marina, as this interferes with firefighting efforts. Avoid the area if possible, and do not fly drones," wrote DNRC on social media.
The fire is burning in grass and timber. The Hilger Valley Fire is considered 0% contained as of 10:00 a.m.
