A Different Kinds Of Horsepower Providing Key Assistance In Dome Fire

Published Sep 26, 2026 2:30 pm : Updated Sep 26, 2026 2:35 pm

Pack mules assisting in bringing key provisions for firefighters working the Dome Fire in Yosemite—Photo by US Forest Service

Yosemite, CA – A different kind of horsepower is being used to fight the Dome Fire in Yosemite National Park and provide key assistance to firefighters on the ground.

The Stanislaus National Forest’s pack team and the Shasta-Trinity pack team are making sure critical supplies, like water, fuel, and food, are reaching firefighters working on fire suppression efforts deep in the backcountry of the park.

“Pack mules are essential to supply firefighters working in remote, rugged terrain where vehicles simply can’t go,” relayed forest officials.

The mules, including Annie, Banjo, Arlo, Gilligan and Waffles, have large packs secured on either side. They and their packers journey over miles of narrow, rocky trails with sheer drops into the wilderness and higher elevations to get the supplies where they are needed.

“Another great example of U.S. Forest Service resources coming together to support our National Park Service partners and firefighters on the ground,” shared forest officials.

These mules will continue to support the fire suppression effort for as long as needed on the Dome Fire, burning in Yosemite, north of Wawona, since September 15th. The blaze has reached nearly 5,000 acres in size after growing another 240 acres overnight and is 28 percent contained at this posting. Firefighters are working on building and widening fire lines near Bridalveil Creek, Empire Meadows, and Horse Ridge. No roads, structures, or utilities are threatened by the flames.