Two of Oregon's largest fires of the 2026 season — both burning on the Mt. Hood National Forest — are approaching full containment after months of intense suppression efforts, marking a significant milestone for the region as autumn weather settles in.

Grasshopper Fire: 93,972 Acres at 98% Contained

The Grasshopper Fire, which ignited on July 23, 2026 from a lightning strike on the east side of Mt. Hood, has burned nearly 94,000 acres in Wasco County and stands at 98 percent containment as of this week. The fire spread through timber, mixed conifer, and shrub communities on the drier eastern flank of the Cascades before crews established control lines. At its peak, the Grasshopper Fire drew significant attention for its rapid spread through drought-stressed fuels in the Columbia River Gorge region. The fire is managed out of Mt. Hood National Forest (541-982-5802).

Austin Fire: 12,888 Acres, 98% Contained — and a Somber Legacy

The Austin Fire, burning about 25 miles southeast of Estacada in brush, timber, and closed timber litter terrain, reached 12,888 acres and is also at 98 percent containment. While suppression crews have largely succeeded in corralling the fire, the Austin incident carries a heavy legacy this season: at least one firefighter died from injuries sustained while battling the blaze. That fatality has become part of the broader national conversation around firefighter safety and compensation.

The Austin Fire is under USFS management through Mt. Hood National Forest. Area, road, and trail closures remain in effect near the fire perimeter.

Fire Behavior and Conditions

Both fires are currently showing minimal fire behavior — smoldering, creeping, and residual heat pockets in deep duff and root systems. Mop-up operations are ongoing. Firefighters are working to fully extinguish any remaining hot spots before winter precipitation arrives.

Smoke and Air Quality

With containment levels approaching 100 percent, active smoke production from both fires has diminished significantly. Occasional drift smoke from mop-up burning may still be visible from the Columbia Gorge region and communities in Hood River, Wasco, and Clackamas counties.

What Residents Should Know

  • Area and road closures remain in place — check with Mt. Hood NF before entering affected areas.
  • Some trails popular with hikers and mountain bikers remain closed pending safety assessments.
  • Residents near both fires should continue monitoring local air quality alerts during mop-up.