Morrell Complex Fire Prompts Trail Closures Near Seeley Lake

A fire complex north of Seeley Lake has prompted the closure of several popular trails.

NBC Montana says the Morrell Complex Fire (formerly the Richmond Complex) is composed of three fires burning six miles north of the Seeley Lake.

Strong winds Friday pushed the complex to over 500 acres.

Smoke from the fires is visible from Highway 93, but Lolo National Forest officials said no structures or property are currently threatened.

Officials said the roads to Morrell Falls, Pyramid Pass and Trail Creek Trailheads are closed, along with the south end of the Clearwater Loop Road between Highway 83 and the Swan Divide, running south to the Morrell Creek Road.

Private residents inside the closure area are allowed access.

Officials said the fire area has good road access, and firefighters will take advantage of the road system the next several days to begin building excavator fireline to the southeast or west to contain any growth in the direction of Highway 83 or structures six miles to the southwest.

Fire behavior Saturday is expected to be less active, with lower temperatures and lighter winds.

A public meeting has been scheduled at 7 p.m. Saturday night at Seeley Lake Elementary School.