The Horton Fire, caused by humans, is burning about 17 miles northeast of Payson. As of Friday, it has spread over 928 acres and is 17% contained, according to the U.S. Forest Service.
Several areas, including Tonto Creek Estates, Tonto Christian Camp, Tonto Fish Hatchery, and the Zane Grey Cabins, are on “SET” evacuation status, which means people should be ready to evacuate if needed.
Firefighters are having trouble reaching and controlling the fire on the east side because the area is hard to access. They are focusing on reducing the risk to Forest Road 300 and Forest Road 76.
The fire activity and smoke may increase on Friday due to dry conditions and the fire continuing to burn in the rugged terrain of the Mogollon Rim. People in nearby areas may see smoke as crews continue working to contain the fire, which started on December 14.
On Friday, the humidity in the area was expected to stay between 30% and 40%, with light winds. These conditions could help reduce the fire’s activity and smoke.
Due to the fire, an emergency closure is in place in the Tonto and Apache-Sitgreaves national forests, lasting until January 31, 2025. The Forest Service is advising people to avoid the area to keep both fire crews and the public safe.
Several recreation sites are closed, including Lower and Upper Tonto Creek Campgrounds, Horton Creek Day Use Area, Hatchery Trailhead, Horton Trailhead, and See Canyon Trailhead. Parts of Forest Road 300, Forest Road 289, Forest Road 208S, and Forest Road 284 are closed, though parts of Forest Road 300, State Route 260, and Christopher Creek Loop Road remain open.
Several non-motorized trails near the fire are also closed: Trail 31 Highline, Trail 32 Derrick Spur, Trail 33 Derrick, Trail 184 See Canyon, Trail 185 See Spring, Trail 285 Horton Creek, and Trail 292 Horton Spring.