AUGUSTA COUNTY, VA (Rocktown Now) — Big Level Fire is currently at 1,284 acres and 69% contained.

Officials say the fire showed very little activity on Friday as larger fuels had smoldered down over the last few days. Fire management personnel will continue to inspect the perimeter to identify any lingering hot spots that may threaten the line. Additional fire spread is not anticipated. Crews will mop-up along the fires edge, moving south from the Coal Road, and the brushing operation up the Bald Mountain Jeep Trail will continue. The InfraRed (heat seeking) equipped drone will operate again over the fire area searching for interior hot spots. Hotspots were not detected.

The following areas are now open but still use caution:
• Saint Mary’s Trail (FT#500)
• Saint Mary’s Gorge Trail (FT#500B)

The following areas are temporarily closed to all public use due to the Big Levels Fire to allow for public and firefighter safety:
• Cold Springs Trail (FT# 524)
• Cellar Mountain Trail (FT#587)
• Bald Mountain Jeep Trail (FSR#162)
• Bald Mountain Spur Road (FSR#162A)
• The national forest system lands north of the Saint Mary’s Trail (#500) and within the area bounded by the Bald Mountain Jeep Trail (FSR#162) and the Coal Road (FSR#42) are also CLOSED.