ENVIRONMENT

Colorado wildfires near Steamboat Springs trigger evacuations

PUBLISHED Jul 12, 2026, 8:40 PM ET

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Two separate wildfires broke out Sunday in Colorado’s high country near Steamboat Springs, forcing mandatory evacuations south and southeast of the city. One fire is burning on U.S. Forest Service land on Rabbit Ears Pass, with smoke visible from Steamboat Springs and size estimated at about 7 acres, according to the National Interagency Fire Center. A second blaze, the Green Ridge Fire near Stagecoach Reservoir in Routt County, also reached roughly 7 acres with no containment. Authorities ordered residents in a defined area near Stagecoach State Park to evacuate immediately, while nearby areas were placed on pre-evacuation notice as investigators probe the cause.

By Emily Rhodes | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

June 19 Stage 1 fire restrictions begin
Sunday midday Rabbit Ears Pass fire reported
Sunday afternoon smoke visible from Steamboat Springs
Sunday afternoon Green Ridge Fire ignites nearby
Sunday afternoon Green Ridge Fire mapped seven acres
Sunday afternoon evacuations ordered near Stagecoach Reservoir
Sunday afternoon pre-evacuation notices issued westward
Sunday evening causes of both fires undetermined

News Intelligence

Wildfires near Steamboat Springs could affect your travel plans or loved ones in the area. If you're local, heed evacuation orders for your safety. Check with the National Interagency Fire Center for updates.