A fire was reported last night about 11:30 p.m. in an area 12 miles west of Strawberry(link is external) near the old Child’s powerplant off a landscape feature named Ike’s Backbone.
The Backbone Fire is estimated to be approximately 150 acres, burning in rough country just above where Fossil Creek and the Verde River converge. Campers near the Child’s powerplant were evacuated last night.
One engine is currently on scene and more resources are in route, including aviation assets. The cause of the fire is unknown at this time.
The Fossil Creek recreation area will be closed due to wildfire danger, which includes Waterfall Trail, Irving/Flume, Tonto Bench, Fossil Creek Bridge, Homestead, Sally May, Purple Mountain, and Mazatzal.