ROCKBRIDGE, VA (Rocktown Now) — UPDATE (7/15/26): The Taylor Hollow wildfire in George Washington National Forest is now 20-percent contained.

The U-S Forest Service reports that the blaze originally discovered on Sunday, July 5th is holding at around 92-acres thanks to the efforts of over 130 fire and support crew members onsite.

Officials say those in the area should continue to expect to see and smell smoke, especially in the community of Irish Creek as firefighters continue to construct containment lines closer to the fire perimeter.

Additionally, both Whetstone Ridge Trail and Big Mary’s Road remain closed to all public use.

ORIGINAL STORY:

Dozens of firefighters continue to battle a wildfire in the George Washington National Forest.

The U.S. Forest Service reports that the Taylor Hollow Fire was discovered on Sunday and is approximately thirty acres. 

Officials say, while limited precipitation has helped to slow fire growth, the wildfire continues to burn in steep, rocky terrain entirely on National Forest lands in Rockbridge County, about five miles east of Fairfield. 

Firefighters are using a helicopter to help suppress the fire and are actively building containment lines around the fire. 

Smoke will be visible from nearby communities and more information, including an interactive map with current fire and air quality data can be found at airnow.gov.