Smoke Columns Rise Above Mountains As Willow Fire Spreads

A still photo captured from the parking area near Bishop’s Castle on Highway 165 shows significant fire activity in southern Colorado.

The image looks south and shows a large plume of smoke rising in the distance, with additional smoke columns visible to the west and north. The scene captures rugged mountain terrain under a blue sky as the fire continues to move and grow.

The footage aligns with activity from the Willow Fire, also referenced in connection with the larger Aspen Acres Fire complex. The fire, burning west of Leadville, expanded rapidly due to dry conditions, prompting new evacuations and reaching thousands of acres with very low containment.

Crews, helicopters, and air resources have been heavily engaged in suppression efforts across the San Isabel National Forest area.

Bishop’s Castle is a nearby landmark that provides vantage points for monitoring such incidents. Smoke from the fire has been visible across the region, consistent with the movement described by the sheriff’s office.