HELENA— A wildfire that started in the Benchmark area about 30 miles west of Augusta led to the evacuation of recreational cabins in the Lewis and Clark National Forest.
The fire was reported early Tuesday afternoon. Ground crews began initial attack on the fire, but had to withdraw for safety reasons after the fire made several runs in the crowns of trees.
Lewis and Clark County Sheriff Leo Dutton says deputies evacuated about 10 cabins along the Benchmark Road. Residents were allowed to retrieve items from their cabins, but there is a roadblock to keep non-residents out. There are about 48 cabins in the area along with a guest ranch, Forest Service campgrounds and an administrative site.
The fire was estimated at about 30 acres on Tuesday evening.