Lightning-Sparked Silvertip Fire Burns 4,142 Acres in Flathead National Forest
The Silvertip Fire, ignited by a lightning strike, has burned 4,142 acres in the Spotted Bear Ranger District of the Flathead National Forest in Montana. The fire, detected on July 24, 2026, is located about 15 miles southeast of the Spotted Bear Ranger Station near Silvertip Mountain. It is burning in heavy timber on steep slopes, with standing dead trees and downed timber contributing to the fire's intensity. Firefighting crews are working to contain the blaze, which poses challenges due to the difficult terrain and dense forest conditions.