Smoke Plume Sunset.jpeg

The smoke plume from the Alexander Mountain Fire illuminated by the setting Colorado Sun on Thursday Aug. 1, 2024. (Alex Edwards/The Denver Gazette)

The Alexander Mountain fire, which forced evacuations and  destroyed 28 homes and 21 outbuildings, is now officially contained, according to fire officials. 

The fire, which ignited west of Loveland in Larimer County on July 29,  burned a total of 9,668 acres. It shut down U.S. 34 between Loveland and Estes Park until August 8; evacuation orders were lifted on August 12. 

The fire is believed to be human-caused; anyone with information about the cause of the fire is asked to call the Forest Service Law Enforcement Tip line at (303) 275-5266. Photos, videos and typed statements can also be uploaded to the U.S. Forest Service LEI Evidence Submission Portal.