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Outdoors Stories

Whether it’s legislation that affects trail access, new rules for river runners, or efforts to restore damaged ecosystems, these stories affect how we live, work, and connect with this place.

Thanks to reader support, we’re investing in more reporting that follows land management decisions, keeps tabs on outdoor recreation impacts, and uplifts the people working to care for this landscape.

Donate to support our Outdoors & Public Lands coverage.

Scenic mountain landscape with green trees, rocks, blue sky, and smoky horizon on a sunny day.
  • Outdoors Stories
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Emergency response starts downsizing as Deer Creek Fire reaches 77% containment; some La Sal Mountains rec areas remain closed

Moab Sun News4 months ago4 months ago

The fire started July 10 near La Sal in San Juan County and remains under investigation for cause. Crews continue repair work on dozer and hand lines, removal of hazardous trees, and securing containment lines as the incident moves toward full containment.

Map showing Deer Creek wildfire progression and containment levels as of July 22, 2025, in Utah and Colorado area.
  • Outdoors Stories
  • Public Safety

Deer Creek Fire hits 54% containment; Suspect in wildfire start identified, main roads reopened

Moab Sun News5 months ago5 months ago

While firefighters gained control of the fire, San Juan County Sheriff Lehi Lacy announced that a suspect has been identified in connection with the start of the fire, following a investigation.

Deer Creek wildfire updates: Firefighters and helicopter on scene, smoke visible in the background.
  • Outdoors Stories
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Deer Creek Fire containment jumps to 17% as crews gain upper hand

Moab Sun News5 months ago5 months ago

Firefighters battling the Deer Creek Fire southeast of Moab achieved a major breakthrough Friday, increasing containment from 11% to 17% as rain and cooler temperatures provided the most favorable conditions since the blaze began nine days ago.

Bulldozer clearing path through smoky forest after wildfire, showing burnt trees and dirt road.
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Deer Creek Fire spreads in Colorado; officials tell Montrose County residents to prepare to evacuate – Friday update

Moab Sun News5 months ago5 months ago

While fire grows, containment improves to 11% aided by cooler weather; some Utah evacuated residents return home The Deer Creek Fire has grown to 15,819 acres but firefighters made significant progress yesterday, increasing…

Map showing Deer Creek wildfire perimeter, 15,655 acres, with containment and closure points marked, dated 7/17/2025.
  • Outdoors Stories
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Deer Creek Fire grows to 15,655 acres, leaving crews in hope of rainfall

Moab Sun News5 months ago5 months ago

“While rainfall will not fully extinguish the heat on a fire of this size, it will help moderate fire behavior and give firefighters a better opportunity to make progress on containment,” officials said.

Returning Rapids Two people outdoors examining large canyon maps of the San Juan River on a wooden table.
  • Outdoors Stories
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Moab team maps a century of change on the San Juan River

Heather Daigle5 months ago5 months ago

The Returning Rapids Project documents San Juan River recovery with first comprehensive survey since 1921

Firefighters hike towards wildfire; helicopter overhead helps extinguish forest blaze.
  • Outdoors Stories
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Deer Creek fire at 7% containment as crews brace for dangerous weather – day 5 update

Moab Sun News5 months ago5 months ago

The Deer Creek Fire burning near La Sal in San Juan County has grown to 11,044 acres, with fire officials warning that conditions are likely to worsen the blaze in coming days. 

  • Outdoors Stories
  • Public Safety

Construction continues on La Sal Mountain Loop Road – new updates on July road closures

Moab Sun News5 months ago5 months ago

Drivers heading into the La Sals this summer should plan ahead: major construction is continuing on the La Sal Mountain Loop Road, and closures are in effect on multiple sections. Paving work resumes…

Airplane drops fire retardant over forest blaze, creating a red mist against smoke-filled sky.
  • Outdoors Stories
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  • Regional

Deer Creek Fire outside of Moab explodes to over 10,000 acres as 300 firefighters battle blaze

Moab Sun News5 months ago5 months ago

The Deer Creek Fire started on July 10 about 18 miles south of Moab and near the community of La Sal. The fire is moving northeast toward the Colorado border, not directly toward Moab, though residents should stay alert for changing conditions during this active wildfire emergency.

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No reservations needed for Arches during hot summer season

Moab Sun News5 months ago5 months ago

Timed entry reservations will resume on August 28 for Labor Day weekend.

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