MARS HILL, NC (May 2, 2018)…The Deer Park Fire, near Hot Springs, has grown to 44 acres and is currently 20% contained. A 7.2 mile portion of the Appalachian Trail from Garenflo Gap to Hot Springs and the Van Cliff Loop Trail, TR #313 remain closed. The closure order for the vicinity of the fire remains in effect.
There are approximately 80 fire personnel assigned to the fire. Firefighters are strengthening fire lines around the perimeter of the fire. The need for a burnout operation is being evaluated based on current and expected burning conditions.
The cause of the fire is still under investigation. However, it is suspected the cause was due to an unattended campfire.
Always practice fire safety and ensure fires are fully extinguished before leaving them unattended. Remember, if it is too hot to touch, it is too hot to leave.
Follow the National Forests in North Carolina on Facebook (www.facebook.com/nfsnc/) and Twitter (twitter.com/NFsNCarolina) for more news and information.