The Muskrat Fire

The Muskrat Fire was reported at approximately 12:45 p.m. at about 1.5 acres and within the hour was reported to have grown to 200 acres. At 6 p.m. the fire acreage was dramatically downgraded to 30 acres, the discrepancy likely due to smoke obstructing the fire area. The fire is 2 miles northwest of Cultus Lake, and about 1/2 mile from Muskrat Lake.

Photo Courtesy of Smokejumper Ralph Sweeney

Photo Courtesy of Smokejumper Ralph Sweeney

The Deschutes County Sheriff's office has issued a press release detailing evacuations for this fire.
In brief:
A Level II notice has been issued for the area bordered by: Southern boundary of Road 4635 (Road to the Cultus Lake Resort), west side at the wilderness boundary line, and north to the Lucky Lake Trailhead across from Lava Lake, bordered on the east side by the Cascade Lakes Highway. It also includes the Cultus Lake Resort and campground.


A Level III evacuation notice has been issued for the area located on the west and north shores of Cultus Lake. This also includes the back country area, north of Cultus Lake including Corral Swamp, Winopee Lake, Muskrat Lake and Teddy Lake.