June 30, 2026, 12:45 p.m. MT
- The Pocket Fire north of Sedona has grown to over 15,000 acres with no containment reported.
- Road closures, including a portion of State Route 89A, are disrupting travel ahead of the Fourth of July holiday.
- Officials have closed numerous trails, campgrounds, and parts of the Coconino National Forest.
The fast-growing Pocket Fire burning in the Coconino National Forest north of Sedona is creating major disruptions just ahead of the Fourth of July holiday. The wildfire, which began on June 19, has expanded to more than 15,000 acres with no reported containment as firefighters continue battling steep terrain, gusty winds and extremely dry conditions.
A portion of State Route 89A remains closed between Sedona and Interstate 17, except for residents, while emergency closures cover portions of Oak Creek Canyon, nearby trails and several campgrounds. Officials have also expanded fire restrictions across much of northern Arizona as Red Flag conditions continue.
The closures are expected to significantly affect Independence Day travel plans. Visitors heading to Sedona, Oak Creek Canyon, Flagstaff and surrounding recreation areas are being urged to check road conditions before traveling, as the closure of State Route 89A is forcing motorists to rely more heavily on Interstate 17 and alternate routes, increasing congestion during one of Arizona’s busiest travel weekends.
Campground closures and trail restrictions have also led many outdoor enthusiasts to cancel or change holiday plans, while smoke conditions may affect sightseeing and outdoor activities throughout the region.
Pocket Fire closures and restrictions in Coconino National Forest
According to the U.S. Forest Service, a portion of the Coconino National Forest is closed to the public due to Pocket Fire operations. And Flagstaff is under Stage 2 fire restrictions.
According to their website, “violating the Pocket Fire closure order is punishable as a Class B misdemeanor by a fine of up to $5,000 for individuals and $10,000 for organizations, or by imprisonment for up to six months, or both.”
In addition to all campgrounds and day use sites the following trails and trailheads are closed:
- Aerie Trail crossing over Dry Creek Road.
- Andante Trailhead.
- Bear Mountain Trailhead.
- Casner Trailhead.
- Dry Creek Road Intersections:
- Fay Canyon Trailhead.
- Girdner Trail crossing over Dry Creek Road.
- Jim Thompson Trailhead.
- Loy Canyon Trailhead.
- Ok Trail crossing over Dry Creek Road.
- Secret Canyon Trailhead.
- Soldier Pass Trailhead.
- Sugarloaf Trailhead.
- Thunder Mountain Trailhead.
Restaurants, hotels and other businesses
Hotels, resorts, restaurants and local businesses are experiencing cancellations as visitors postpone trips because of road closures, evacuation orders in Oak Creek Canyon and uncertainty surrounding the fire.
While much of Sedona and Cottonwood remains open for business, tourism officials are encouraging travelers to confirm reservations and monitor the latest wildfire updates before departing, as conditions can change quickly heading into the holiday weekend.
Got a story you want to share? Reach out at Tiffany.Acosta@gannett.com. Follow @tiffsario on Instagram.
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