The Hayman wildfire of 2002 scorched more than 137,000 acres across five counties, including Teller County. The arson-caused blaze was the largest and most destructive in Colorado history at the time, destroying 600 structures and causing the deaths of five firefighters.

It remains among the state’s top five in size, fatalities and structures destroyed.

Since the Hayman fire, Teller County residents have dealt with a number of blazes that, while smaller than Hayman, destroyed property, forced evacuations and changed lives.

Western Hills fire: More than 100 acres burned and a dozen homes evacuated in April 2015.

High Chateau fire: Started June 29, 2018. More than 1,400 acres burned. At least 10 homes and an unknown number of barns, other outbuildings, campers and vehicles were burned in the fire. Origin was a campfire. Three persons arrested and charged, but did not serve prison time.

High Park fire: Started about six miles west of Cripple Creek on May 12, 2022. More than 1,570 acres burned. Cause unknown.

403 fire: Started March 30, 2023. Burned more than 1,500 acres in Park and Teller counties. Investigators determined that a resident near Florissant started the fire on their property.