Horton Fire: 8,000 acres burned northeast of Payson; public urged to take precautions

PAYSON, Ariz. – The Horton Fire is burning with 23% containment near Payson. According to the Tonto National Forest, the fire has burned 8,337 acres as of Jan. 7.

The wildfire sparked on Dec. 14 in the Tonto National Forest. Over 400 personnel are assigned to the fire.

The fire was determined to be human-caused and remains under investigation.

A public meeting was held at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in Payson on the evening of Jan. 6. You can watch it here.

The following communities are in SET status:

• Tonto Creek Estates
• Tonto Christian Camp
• Tonto Fish Hatchery
• Kohl’s Ranch Zane Grey Cabins

Closures

An emergency closure order is currently in effect from Dec. 18 through Jan. 31, 2025 in the following areas:

• Lower and Upper Tonto Creek Campgrounds
• Horton Creek Day Use Area
• Hatchery Trailhead
• Horton Trailhead
• See Canyon Trailhead

Several other non-motorized trails were also closed.

“The purpose of the closure order is to protect public health and safety during the Horton Fire, and to protect assigned firefighting personnel engaging in wildland firefighting operations,” stated officials.

Smoke

Smoke could be visible from the fire in the surrounding area.

“Smoke will be heavier in the mornings as it settles into the lower elevations and will lift as temperatures increase. Smoke-sensitive individuals and people with respiratory problems or heart disease are encouraged to take precautionary measures,” stated U.S. Forest Service officials.

Weather

Long-term forecasts call for dry conditions through the beginning of 2025. No rain is expected.

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