MISSOULA, Mont. - The Elder 1 fire, burning 7 miles southwest of Frenchtown in the Lolo National Forest, grew from 318 acres to 510 acres overnight, according to the U.S. Forest Service.
The lightning-caused fire sparked on July 24.
Northern Rockies Complex Incident Management Team 1 took over command of the fire on Tuesday morning.
A temporary flight restriction is in place over the fire area, the forest service said.
"For your safety and that of firefighting resources, Forest fire officials are encouraging the public to stay out of the immediate area and avoid unnecessary travel down Deep Creek Road," Lolo National Forest said. "Agency officials are discussing the implementation of a temporary area closure for the fire area."