Benchmark fire forces cabin evacuations

HELENA — A wildfire in the Benchmark area at the eastern edge of the Bob Marshall Wilderness led to the evacuation of recreational cabins in the Lewis and Clark National Forest.

The lightning-caused 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.

Two helicopters and four retardant planes were brought in to fight the fire one mile west of the Benchmark Airstrip.

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 nonresidents out. There are about 48 cabins in the area.

In addition to the recreational cabins, the area being evacuated includes a guest ranch, Forest Service campgrounds, heavily used trailheads, a Forest Service administrative site and a Forest Service rental cabin.

Benchmark is a popular gateway to the Bob Marshall Wilderness.

The fire was estimated at about 40 acres Tuesday night. It is burning 30 miles west of Augusta.