Editor’s Note: Recreation Reports are printed every other week. June 24, 2015
The 4th of July holiday is always a favorite for those who like to visit the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. Ranger district personnel expect to be busy with the usual influx of recreationists, and popular campgrounds will likely be full by Thursday. Historically, this holiday also commands the attention of national forest fire management officials. "The use of fireworks on National Forest lands is a major concern to us," said Fire Staff Officer Keith Satterfield. “Fireworks of any kind are illegal on all National Forest lands.” “All areas of the forest are very dry and we are concerned about the use of fireworks on lands adjacent to the National Forest,” Satterfield said. “This year we are especially concerned due to the dry spring and lack of snowpack. We have late July dry forest conditions occurring right now in late June, a full month early. Due to the above normal fire danger and the upcoming 4th of July holiday, additional firefighting resources will be standing by in case a wildfire starts.” During the long holiday weekend, ranger district personnel across the forest will be on the lookout for the illegal possession or use of fireworks in the forest. "Our employees have been instructed to confiscate any fireworks they discover," Satterfield said. There are monetary penalties for those in possession of fireworks on the National Forest. Law breakers can be subject to a citation and a fine up to $500 or imprisonment for not more than 6 months or both. If a wildfire results from an individual's use of fireworks, that person can be found liable for the cost of suppressing the fire. Suppression efforts are very costly, often running into hundreds of thousands of dollars and more. Satterfield stressed that all forest visitors need to comply with current campfire restrictions and be especially careful with fires in those areas where they are still allowed.
______USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer and lender. To file a complaint of discrimination, write: USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, DC 20250-9410 or call (800) 795-3272 (voice), or (202) 720-6382 (TDD).
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For current campfire restriction information please contact national forest ranger stations or go to the forest website at www.fs.usda.gov/okawen . Record hot, dry and windy weather conditions have increased the potential for wildfires, prompting forest officials to implement additional campfire restrictions. Following is a breakdown of campfire restrictions on the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest: In Okanogan County: For national forest lands on the Tonasket and Methow Valley Ranger Districts, beginning June 26 campfires will be allowed only in designated campgrounds and wilderness areas, and specially designated recreation residence or special use sites. In Chelan County: For national Forest lands on the Chelan, Entiat and Wenatchee River Ranger Districts, beginning June 26 campfires will be allowed only in most designated campgrounds, wilderness areas and specially designated recreation residence or special use sites. No campfires are allowed within a half mile of the lakeshore of Lake Chelan. In Kittitas County: On the Cle Elum Ranger District campfires are allowed only in designated campgrounds, wilderness areas and specially designated recreation residence or special use sites. In Yakima County: On the Naches Ranger District, beginning June 26 campfires will only be allowed in the Norse Peak, Goat Rocks and William O. Douglas wilderness areas and nowhere else on national forest lands. For more information about campfire restrictions go to http://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/okawen/home?cid=fsbdev3_053600
Clear leaves and other debris from gutters, eaves, porches and decks. This prevents embers from igniting your home. Remove dead vegetation from under your deck and within 10 feet of the house. Remove anything stored underneath decks or porches.
OFFICE ADDRESSES and PHONE NUMBERS: Chelan Ranger District, 428 W. Woodin Ave., Chelan, WA 98816; 509-682-4900; hours M-F 7:45 a.m.-4:30 p.m., closed for lunch 11:30 to 12:30 Cle Elum Ranger District, 803 W. 2nd Street, Cle Elum, WA 98922; 509-852-1100; hours M-F 8 a.m.-4 p.m.; closed for lunch 12:30 to 1:15 p.m. Entiat Ranger District, physical address 2108 Entiat Way, (P.O. Box 476), Entiat, WA 98822; 509-784-4700; hours M-F 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Methow Valley Ranger District, 24 West Chewuch Road, Winthrop, WA 98862; 509-996-4000; hours M-F 7:45 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Naches Ranger District, 10237 Hwy. 12, Naches, WA 98937; 509-653-1401; hours 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; closed for lunch noon to 12:30 p.m. Okanogan Valley Office, 1240 South Second Ave., Okanogan, WA 98840; 509-826-3275; hours M- F 7:30-4 p.m.; closed for lunch 11 a.m. to noon Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest Headquarters office, 215 Melody Lane, Wenatchee, WA 98801; 509-664-9200; hours M-F 7:45-4:30 Tonasket Ranger District, 1 W. Winesap, Tonasket, WA 98855; 509-486-2186; hours M-F 7:45 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; closed for lunch 12:30 to 1 p.m. Wenatchee River Ranger District, 600 Sherbourne, Leavenworth, WA 98826; 509-548-2550; hours M-F 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
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WOODCUTTING INFORMATION: Woodcutting permits are on sale at all Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest offices. The minimum firewood permit is $20 for four cords of wood. The cost for permits over the four-cord minimum is $5 per cord. Generally, woodcutters may cut wood that has fallen to the ground and standing dead trees (except wildlife habitat trees).
There are a few things to keep in mind when preparing to go woodcutting: It is a good idea to scope out an area for wood before purchasing a woodcutting permit (the permits are not refundable). A woodcutting permit is required. The permit and woodcutting stubs must be in the woodcutter’s possession when cutting firewood. A woodcutting area map is a necessity. These maps show the areas that are open and closed to woodcutting and are available free with the woodcutting permits. After shutting off the chainsaw, woodcutters need to remain in the area at least one hour to watch for any potential fire starts from woodcutting equipment. Please validate the woodcutting stub (load ticket) by cutting out or marking out with a permanent pen the month and day that woodcutting occurs. The stub must be attached to the load when the vehicle is moved from the cutting site. Don’t forget to bring along the safety items that are listed on the woodcutting permit (a chainsaw with the proper exhaust system in good repair with a screen-type spark arrestor, a long-handled shovel, and a fire extinguisher). Please note that firewood cutting season on the Naches Ranger District ends on the first Sunday in October.
INDUSTRIAL FIRE PRECAUTION LEVELS (IFPLs): The IFPL is level II for all areas of the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest except for the Tonasket Ranger District which remains at Level I. At IFPL II limits are set on certain activities which can occur only between the hours of 8 p.m. and 1 p.m. For current IFPL information go to https://fortress.wa.gov/dnr/ifpl/IFPL.aspx
Washington State Dept. of Natural Resources, US Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, and Bureau of Indian Affairs all use the same four-level industrial regulation system. This system, which helps prevent wildfires by regulating work in the woods, is known as the Industrial Fire Precaution Level (IFPL) system. Industrial Fire Precaution Levels and what they mean: Level I: Fire equipment and fire watch service is required. Carry the equipment listed on the woodcutting permit. Level II: Partial Hoot owl – limits certain activities, such as woodcutting, to between the hours of 8 p.m. and 1 p.m. Level III: Partial Shutdown – prohibits some activities altogether, such as woodcutting, and limits other activities between the hours of 8 p.m. and 1 p.m. Level IV: General Shutdown – All operations prohibited.
COMMERCIAL MUSHROOM PERMITS: Commercial mushroom permits are available for purchase at all Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest ranger district offices and headquarters office. Commercial mushroom permit fees are $20 for a 2-day permit, $50 for a 30- day permit or $100 for a season permit which ends on July 31. Mushroom harvesting area maps and harvesting information brochures are available at forest offices and on the forest website at www.fs.usda.gov/okawen .
PERSONAL USE MUSHROOM PERMITS: Personal use mushroom gathering of three gallons per day is free. No permit is required. Mushroom gathering is prohibited in Wilderness areas.
DISCOVER YOUR NORTHWEST (formerly known as Northwest Interpretive Association): Check out the great selection of books, puzzles, cards, stuffed animals, kids’ stuff and much more at each of the sales outlets located in the reception areas at most ranger district offices and at the forest headquarters office!
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TICKS: Ways to protect yourself from ticks: Avoid tall grass and shrubby areas. Stay close to the center of hiking trails and avoid brushing against vegetation. Wear long-sleeved shirts tight at the wrists, long pants tucked into socks and shoes covering the entire foot. Wear light-colored clothes that show ticks easily. Examine your body for ticks; pay special attention to your head, scalp, back, neck, armpits and groin area. Examine pets closely for ticks on a daily basis, especially around the head and inside the ears. Wearing an insect repellent also might help. Read and follow all precautions and directions on the label.
HAZARDS FOUND IN WILDFIRE AREAS: Following are a variety of hazards to watch out for when traveling through areas burned in wildfires. Snags are not only obviously dead trees, but can also be blackened killed trees or green trees burned through at the bottom. Snags can fall at any time. Besides the potential for striking people or property, they can block trails or roads, including your exit even though travel was unimpeded when you entered the area. Snags can make travel difficult if a lot of trees have fallen across the landscape. Stump holes and root channels can still be burning and often are hidden from sight until stepped upon. Steep slopes and loss of vegetation may cause rolling rocks and debris flows off hillsides at any time but the likelihood increases with rain and freeze-thaw events. Loss of vegetation increases the potential for erosion to occur with any rain event. Water runoff may cause flooding that impacts or clogs road culverts and storm drains; sediment may move downstream affecting lands a long distance from the burned areas. Even with minor precipitation, road culverts can become plugged with material and cause debris flows. Recently opened areas may still have areas with smoke and fire. Fire can smolder below ground in root channels and stump holes and pop up above ground as these sources of organic matter reach the surface. If smoke is discovered, report a fire to 911.
Some things to do to be prepared: Don’t loiter in the burned areas, travel quickly through burned areas to reach your favorite recreation sites outside of the burns Carrying a saw or axe with you is a good idea when traveling on forest roads Stay current on weather forecasts and avoid areas that have been severely burned Do not try to cross an active mud or debris flow Let someone know where you are going and when you plan to return home For more information, please call the local national forest office or go to the forest web site at www.fs.usda.gov/okawen .
SPECIAL FOREST PRODUCTS: Permits are required for gathering forest products including firewood, mushrooms, transplants, rocks and minerals, posts and poles, floral cuttings, pine cones, and boughs. Please contact Forest Service district offices for specific information. There is a minimum charge of $20 per permit. Free use permits are available for small quantities of certain items for personal use. Special forest products permits for personal use firewood, personal use river rock and commercial use beargrass are available from the Cle Elum Ranger Station. INTERAGENCY PASS PROGRAM (America the Beautiful National Parks & Federal Recreation Lands Pass): This pass combines the benefits of existing recreation passes from five federal agencies into one comprehensive Interagency Pass called “America the Beautiful – National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass.” The pass covers recreation opportunities on public lands managed by National Park Service, Fish and Wildlife Service, Bureau of Land Management, Bureau of Reclamation, and U.S. Forest Service. The pass applies to those locations that currently have entrance or standard amenity fees. The annual pass sells for $80, the lifetime senior pass is $10, and the lifetime access pass and the volunteer passes are free. Passes are valid for one full year from the month of purchase. 6-24-2015 Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest Recreation Report page 5 of 28
Passes provide entrance or access to the pass holder and accompanying passengers in a single, private, non-commercial vehicle at federally operated recreation sites across the country. Passes cover the pass holder and three (3) accompanying adults age 16 and older at sites where per person entrance fees are charged. No entry fee for children 15 and under. Passes are NON-REFUNDABLE, NON-TRANSFERABLE, and cannot be replaced if lost or stolen. This program replaces the Golden Eagle, Golden Age, and the Golden Access Passports as well as the National Parks Pass. Existing passes will remain valid until expired, lost or stolen. These passes can be used in lieu of the Northwest Forest Pass.
RECREATION PASS PURCHASE INFORMATION: A $5 day use fee is required at many trailheads and day use sites across the national forest. The Northwest Forest Day Pass, Northwest Forest Annual Pass, and America the Beautiful Interagency Annual Pass are honored at all Forest Service-operated recreation sites where a day use fee is required. For a complete list of recreation sites where a day use fee is required, please visit http://go.usa.gov/2YXA or call your local ranger station.
Passes are available at all ranger district offices and the forest headquarters office in Wenatchee. The cost is $30 for an annual pass and $5 for a day use pass. For information about the Northwest Forest Pass call 1-800- 270-7504 or to order it online go to www.naturenw.org . Wenatchee area: Northwest Forest passes are available at Arlberg Sports Inc., Hooked on Toys, Bi- Mart, and Big 5. Chelan area: Passes are available at the Chelan Ranger District office. Entiat area: Passes are available at Cooper’s General Store in the Entiat Valley and at the Entiat Ranger District office. Lake Wenatchee area: Passes are available at Midway Village Grocery, Parkside Grocery and Plain Hardware. Leavenworth area: In Leavenworth passes are available at Der Sportsman, Icicle Quik Stop 76 gas station, Sleeping Lady Mountain Retreat Gift Shop, and Pioneer Market in Cashmere. Cle Elum area: Northwest Forest Pass vendors include Cle Elum Ranger Station and o Sportland Mini Mart Shell Station, 4402 Bullfrog Road, Cle Elum. Located 1 mile north of the Ranger Station on Hwy 903. Their phone number is 509-649-2260. st o Kittitas County Chamber of Commerce Cle Elum Visitor Center, 312 W 1 , Cle Elum, 509-674-6880 o Kittitas County Chamber of Commerce, 609 N Main, Ellensburg, phone 509-925-2002. o Mountain High Sports, 105 E 4th Street, Ellensburg, phone 509-925-4626. o Bi-Mart, 608 East Mountain View, Ellensburg, phone 509-925-6973. o Mac A Bee Gifts of the Southwest, 1401 Airport Road, Cle Elum, phone 509-674-7055. o Stewart Lodge LLC, 805 W 1st St Cle Elum, phone 509-674-4548 Methow Valley area: Passes are available at the Methow Valley Ranger Station office, 24 W. Chewuch Road in Winthrop, and o Winthrop Mountain Sports, 257 Riverside Avenue, Winthrop, phone 509 996-2886. o Methow Cycle and Sports, 19210 Hwy 20, Winthrop, phone 509 996-3645. o Valley Hardware/Do-It Center Hardware, 429 E. Methow Valley Hwy., Twisp, 509-997-3355. o Mazama Country Inn, 15 Country Road, Mazama, phone 509-996-2681 (Day passes only). o Goat Beard Mountain Supply, 50 Lost River Road in Mazama, 509-996-2515. o Do It Center Valley Hardware, 309 Highway 20 South in Twisp, 509-997-8541. o The Outdoorsman, 170 Riverside Ave., Winthrop, 509-996-2649, (Day passes only).
Naches area: Northwest Forest passes can be purchased at the following locations. o Naches Ranger District office, 10237 U. S. Hwy 12, Naches, phone 509-653-1401. o Slim’s Market, 9951 US Hwy 12, Naches. o Rimrock Grocery Store, 34090 U.S. Hwy 12, Naches, phone 509-672-2251. o Bi-Mart stores in Yakima, Sunnyside and in Ellensburg.
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CHELAN RANGER DISTRICT
The office phone number is (509) 682-4900. OFFICE HOURS: The Chelan Ranger District is located at 428 West Woodin Avenue in Chelan with office hours of 7:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday with a one hour closure for lunch from 11:30 to 12:30. The Chelan Ranger District also serves as an information center for the Lake Chelan National Recreation Area. ECHO RIDGE: All trails are open and snow free. LAKE LEVEL: The level of Lake Chelan is 1099.72 feet above sea level. For more information on the lake level, please visit the Chelan County Public Utility District website at: http://www.chelanpud.org/lake- chelan-lake-levels.cfm . ROADS: Most forest roads are open at lower and mid-elevations. However, be prepared to run into wet and/or muddy conditions or even snow at highest elevations. It is not permitted to move or drive around any traffic barricades on any Forest Service roadway, even if the road appears drivable. Roads will continue to be opened as conditions permit. Four-wheel-drive and high vehicle clearance is always recommended for travel on those forest roads that are open. Remember, there is limited turn around space available on most forest roads. Always travel with plenty of fuel and check on road conditions with district offices before heading out. Road Name Road Number Status Shady Pass 5900 Open Purtteman Road 8010 Open Antoine Creek 8140 Open Grade Creek 8200 Open to Nelson Butte. Joe Creek 8210 Open Slide Ridge 8410 Open
TRAILS: The low to mid elevation trails are completely free of snow (see below) but the high elevation trails still have some snow patches on shaded slopes. Trails listed below as maintained have been cleared of logs. However, wind storms can occur at any time and more trees are likely to fall across the trails. In burned areas, there can be quite a few newly fallen trees across the trails. Streams fed by melting snow from high elevation basins are still running high on warm days, especially in the afternoons. Ticks, rattlesnakes, bears, and nuisance deer will continue to keep you good company.
Holden Village area non-wilderness trails Holden Nature Trail #1253 Snow free Ten Mile Creek Trail #1241 Snow free Ten Mile Falls Trail #1270 Snow free Monkey Bear Falls Trail #1273 Closed due to mine remediation work.
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North Shore area trails Echo Ridge Trails #1290 - 1297 Maintained.
Lucerne area non-wilderness trails Maintained. The trail is maintained to Domke Lake Campground. The trail from Domke Lake Camp to Stuart Camp and Stuart Camp are CLOSED due to fire-killed Domke Lake Trail #1280 snags frequently falling. The southern half of the Domke Lake Campground is also closed due falling snags. There are posters and flagging marking where it is too dangerous to camp. Domke Mt. Lookout Trail #1280.1 Snow free
Glacier Peak Wilderness trails Agnes Gorge Trail #1281 Maintained Company Creek Trail #1243 Mostly snow free with some snow patches in upper Hilgard Basin Copper Basin Trail #1240.22 Closed due to mine remediation work. Devore Creek Trail #1244 Mostly snow free with some snow patches in upper 4th of July Basin Maintained for 3 miles, then mostly snow free to Milham Pass. Do not dilly-dally in drainages and avoid travel in this area during windy conditions. Even though the trail Emerald Park Trail #1230 has been maintained, the part of the trail in the burned area will continue to have trees fall throughout the season. The area around Emerald Park and above was not burned. Hart / Lyman Lake Trail #1256 Maintained to Hart Lake. Snow free beyond. Holden Lake Trail #1251 Maintained to top of the switchbacks then snow free. Maintained for 1 mile, then snow free above. Closed from Wilson Creek to Holden Village due to mine remediation work. Travel past Wilson Creek to Holden Village Lower Railroad Creek Trail and vice versa is not possible. When in the burn area, do not dilly-dally in drainages #1240 and avoid travel in this area during windy conditions. Even though the trail has been maintained the part of the trail in the burned area will continue to have trees fall throughout the season. Upper Lyman Trail #1256.2 Snow patches. Snow covered. This is not a trail, but a cross-country route through the pass between Spider Meadows and Upper Lyman Lakes. Spider Glacier is no longer a Spider Gap glacier, just a snow field at best and it is relatively flat. On the Lyman side of the gap there is a snowfield on the slope that is the route down to the Upper Lyman Trail; an ice-axe is recommended. Maintained to the 12 mile point, then patchy snow in upper basins. Trees kill by Pacific Crest Trail #2000 insects are falling into Hemlock Camp and it is not safe to camp there. Use Cedar Camp, Sitting Bull Basin Camp or a camp up on the South Fork Agnes trail instead. South Fork Agnes Trail #1239 Snow free. Suiattle/Cloudy Hiker Shortcut Snow patches, ice axe recommended.
Sawtooth Backcountry Non-Wilderness Trails Hoodoo Pass Trail #1259.31 Snow free (hiker & horse) Snow free. The section of trail on the Chelan side of Horsehead Pass is rated Most Prince Creek Trail #1255.2 Difficult for motorbike travel. Caution: Part of the trail has collapsed and the (motor & mtn. bikes, horse, hiker) remaining tread is very narrow on the first switchback down from the top of Horsehead Pass. Safety Harbor Trail #1261 Maintained. Even when this trail is maintained, the part of the trail in the burned (motor & mtn. bikes, horse, hiker) over area will continue to have trees fall throughout the season. Summer Blossom Trail #1258 Snow patches (hiker only) Summit Trail #1259.3 Snow free Even though the trail has been maintained the part of the trail in the (motor & mtn. bikes, horse, hiker) burned over area will continue to have trees fall throughout the season. Snow free. The first 3 miles up from Safety Harbor Creek are badly washed out and Uno Peak Trail #1260 not passible by motorbikes, mountain bikes and horses. High water in the creek ford. (motor & mtn. bikes, horse, hiker) Even when the trail is maintained the part of the trail in the burned over area will continue to have trees fall throughout the season.
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Lake Chelan-Sawtooth wilderness trails Maintained. Even though the trail has been maintained, the part of the trail in the burned over area will continue to have trees fall throughout the season. There have Lower Fish Creek Trail #1248 been several wind storms this season and there are reports of numerous logs down on this trail. Maintained. Warning: The new reroute through Meadow Creak is not yet passible by stock. Ticks and rattlesnakes are out. Even though the trail has been maintained, Lakeshore Trail #1247.1702 the part of the trail in the burned over area will continue to have trees fall throughout the season. Maintained. Even after the trail has been maintained the part of the trail in the North Fork Fish Creek Trail burned over area will continue to have trees fall throughout the season. There have #1248.1 been several wind storms this season and there are reports of numerous logs down on this trail. N. Fork Prince Creek Trail #1254 Snow free Oval Pass Trail #1259.13 Snow free Maintained for 4 miles to the Prince Creek crossing, snow free to Cub Lake. The tread at the 1.75 mile point, through a small cliff, is washed out. Rock steps have been installed for hikers down and around the washout. The trail is not passable by stock. There is no bridge or foot-log across Prince Creek at mile 4 and the creek Prince Creek Trail #1255 is very difficult to cross during spring run-off. Even though the trail has been maintained the part of the trail in the burned over area will continue to have trees fall throughout the season. There have been several wind storms this season and there are reports of numerous logs down on this trail.
Round Lake/Horton Butte Trail # Snow free
Maintained from the National Park boundary to Eagle Pass Trail junction, the Summit Trail #1259 rest of the trail is mostly snow free. Surprise Lake Trail #1249 Snow free
25 Mile Creek & Stormy Mountain area trails (Open to motorbikes, mountain bikes, horses and hikers) Devil’s Backbone Trail #1248 Snow free. Maintained. Even after the trail has been maintained the part of the trail in the Lone Peak Trail #1264 burned over area will continue to have trees fall throughout the season. Maintained. Even after the trail has been maintained the part of the trail in the Pot Peak Trail #1266 burned over area will continue to have trees fall throughout the season. The Lower Trail is maintained, but it is washed out at the 2 mile point; approximately 1,000 feet of tread is completely gone and the trail beyond the washout to the junction with Lone Peak Trail has not been maintained since 2006. Not passable by motorbikes, mountain bikes or horses. North Fork 25 Mile Trail #1265 The Upper Trail – This trail can be accessed by motorbikes, mountain bikes, horses, and hikers via the Lone Peak Trail (which is maintained by the Entiat Ranger District). Even after the trail has been maintained the part of the trail in the burned over area will continue to have trees fall throughout the season. Stormy Mt. Trail #1233 Snow free.
All Other Trails Trails not included on this Have not been maintained for years and there are no plans to maintain them. If you report choose to travel them be for prepared for cross-country travel conditions.
CAMPING: Campfires are prohibited at Antlion Lake, Snowberry Bowl, Deer Point and Mitchell Creek campgrounds. All uplake boat-in campgrounds are open with no services available. The dock at Deer Point is undergoing repairs but is expected to be back in the water and available for use around the 4th of July. There are bear-proof boxes at Forest Service campgrounds at Prince Creek, Moore Point and Holden Village. 6-24-2015 Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest Recreation Report page 9 of 28
Dock permits are required from May 1 through October 31. Dock permits are available at the Chelan Ranger District office, Kelly’s Ace Hardware, Lake Chelan State Park, Twenty-five Mile Creek State Park, Reed’s Marine, Manson Parks and Recreation, North Cascades Lodge at Stehekin, and at the forest headquarters office in Wenatchee. Drive-To Campgrounds Campground Status Elevation General Info/Services Antilon Lake Accessible 2,400 feet Accessible. Primitive camp sites, no services. No campfires! Grouse Mountain Accessible 4,425 feet Accessible. Primitive camp sites, no services. Handy Springs Snow covered 6,300 feet Accessible. Primitive camp sites, no services. Junior Point Snow covered 6,600 feet Accessible. Primitive camp sites, no services. Snowberry Bowl Accessible 2,000 feet Open. $10/night plus $8 for each extra vehicle. No campfires! Windy Camp Snow covered 5,900 feet Accessible. Primitive camp sites, no services. South Navarre Snow covered 6,475 feet Accessible. Primitive camp sites, no services.
CLE ELUM RANGER DISTRICT
The office phone number is (509) 852-1100. SUMMER OFFICE HOURS: Monday through Friday 8 to 4:30 with a 45-minute closure for lunch from 12:30 to 1:15. Permits are sold until 4 p.m. SNOQUALMIE PASS VISITOR INFORMATION CENTER is now open for the summer recreation season. Hours are Thursday through Sunday 8:30-3:30 p.m. Maps, passes and permits, as well as a wide variety of interpretive materials are available. Current information on trail conditions, campgrounds and other recreation information is also available. WILDFLOWERS: Wildflowers are still plentiful at mid to high elevations. Bitterroot, balsam root, lupine, paintbrush, larkspur and columbine are a few of the colorful flowers that can be found at this time. PERMITS: Personal use firewood permits are available for purchase at the Cle Elum Ranger Station, Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to noon and 1:15 to 4 p.m. Permits can also be purchased at the Kittitas County Visitor Center in both Cle Elum and Ellensburg, Monday through Friday from 9 – 5 and Saturday 10 – 4. The Cle Elum Office is located at 312 W 1st Street; the Ellensburg office is at 609 N Main Street. NEW! The Cle Elum Ranger District will begin selling personal use pole permits starting July 1. The permit will allow purchasers to collect up to 500 lineal feet of poles. The harvest area is within the Ken Wilcox Horse Camp at Haney Meadows located on Forest Service Road No. 9712 approximately 8.5 miles from Highway 97 off Blewett Pass. The permit area is also temporarily open for personal use firewood collection. Persons wishing to collect both poles and firewood while in the area must purchase a firewood and pole permit as they are not interchangeable. Only downed trees may be harvested. 6-24-2015 Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest Recreation Report page 10 of 28
Permit holders must check and be in compliance with the current Industrial Fire Precaution Level and carry all required equipment called for in the terms of the permit. NON-MOTORIZED TRAILS: Snow is gone from most Cle Elum Ranger District Trails; it lingers only at the highest elevations. Trail maintenance is just beginning, so you can still expect to encounter winter debris on most trails. ROADS: When driving forest roads stay on the road; do not go around obstacles which are blocking the road. Road Name Road No. Status as of June 23, 2015 Manastash 3100 Open. The road is closed for road work from 6 a.m. to 6 Taneum 3300 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 6 a.m. to noon Fridays through mid-September. Gnat Flat 3330 Open Peoh Point 3350 Open Reecer Creek 3500 Open French Cabin Cr 4308 Open Fish Lake 4330 Open Woods & Steele 4510 Open Cooper Lake 4600 Open Kachess 4900 Open Box Canyon 4930 Open Stampede Pass 5400 Open Lost Lake 5480 Open Jungle Creek 9701 Open Red Top 9702 Open Stafford Creek 9703 Open Lion Gulch 9712 Open Liberty Beehive 9712 Open. Iron Creek 9714 Open Swauk Meadows 9716 Open Cougar Gulch 9718 Open NF Teanaway 9737 Open Blue Creek 9738 Open Jack Creek 9738 Open
CAMPGROUNDS: All campgrounds are open for the 2015 season except Wish Poosh. Wish Poosh Campground will not be open in 2015 due to root rot which has infected Grand fir trees throughout the campground loop area. Once infected, trees are at risk of falling and pose a threat to public safety. The Day Use Area and boat ramp are not affected and are now open for the summer. CABIN RENTALS: The Cle Elum Ranger District offers one cabin for public rental. For more information or to make reservations, contact National Recreation Reservation Service at 1-877-444-6777 or online at www.recreation.gov . • Teanaway Guard Station is located along North Fork Teanaway Road No. 9737 north of Cle Elum. This small cabin offers a cozy spot for two people to enjoy the Teanaway Valley. The cabin has one bunk bed set that offers two twin beds. A picnic table and fire ring is available outside.
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ENTIAT RANGER DISTRICT
The office phone number is (509) 784-4700. OFFICE HOURS: 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. SNOW: Snow still covers the highest elevations of the Entiat District; it has melted out at lower elevations. Trailheads are accessible and trail maintenance is now occurring. ROADS: All Forest Service roads on the Entiat Ranger District have melted out. Call the Entiat Ranger Station for the latest information on road conditions and status. Please tread lightly on national forest roads. Drive carefully, carry a shovel and use good judgment as road conditions can change quickly. Four wheel drive and high vehicle clearance are always recommended for travel on forest roads. If roads are muddy and snowy and your vehicle is damaging the road surface please turn around to prevent further road damage. Remember, there is limited turn around space available on most forest roads. Please respect current road closures. Road Name Status Closed just above the junction with FS Road No. 5605. The Entiat River Road will be Entiat River Road No. 5100 closed for the season, approximately 31 miles up the road, due to hazardous conditions caused by last year’s Duncan Fire. North Fork Road No. 5606 Closed due to public safety concerns resulting from the Duncan Fire. Shady Pass Road No. 5900 Open from the junction of Entiat River Road to Big Hill.
TRAILS: Trailheads and most trails are now melted out and trail maintenance is occurring. Silver Falls National Recreation Trail is closed due to fire damage and hazardous conditions; the trail will remain closed this year—sorry for any inconvenience. Be aware, the bridges over Silver Creek have been removed. Duncan Ridge Trailhead, North Fork Entiat River Trailhead, Entiat River Trailhead, and the Shetipo Trailhead are all within the Duncan Fire Closure Area and will not be accessible in the 2015 season.
Call the Entiat Ranger Station for alternate entry points into the North Fork Entiat River and the Entiat Ranger District’s portion of the Glacier Peak Wilderness. Current Trail Conditions Trail # Trail Name Maintained means that downed logs have been removed from the trail 1230.1 Emerald Park Not maintained 1231.1 Wilson Creek Not maintained 1265 North 25 Mile Creek Not maintained 1265 Pot Peak Not maintained 1400 Entiat River Not maintained 1403 Hi Yu Not maintained 1404 Cow Creek Meadows Not maintained 1405 Ice Creek Not maintained 1405.1 Ice Lakes Not maintained. No campfires at Ice Lakes. Not maintained. Currently under a seasonal closure and closed to 1406 Mad Lake motorcycles, mountain bikes and stock until posted open. 1408 Garland Peak Not maintained 1409 Mad River (Lower) Maintained Not maintained. It is currently under a seasonal closure and is closed to 1409.1 Mad River (Upper) motorcycles, mountain bikes and stock until posted open. 1409.2 Pond Camp Not maintained 6-24-2015 Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest Recreation Report page 12 of 28
Current Trail Conditions Trail # Trail Name Maintained means that downed logs have been removed from the trail 1413 Billy Ridge Maintained, the lower section is not recommended for motorcycles. 1415 Tyee Ridge Maintained for 2 miles from the trailhead. Maintained from Road No. 5700 to the junction with the Lower Mad River Trail 1416 Billy Creek No. 1409. 1417 Hunter Not maintained 1418 Cougar Ridge Maintained 1419 Jimmy Creek Not maintained 1421 Lost Lake Not maintained 1423 South Tommy Not maintained 1424 Middle Tommy Not maintained 1425 North Tommy Not maintained Not maintained. Currently under seasonal closure, closed to motorcycles, 1426 Blue Creek mountain bikes, and stock until otherwise posted. 1427 Klone Peak View Point Not maintained 1429 Shetipo Closed for the season due to the Duncan Fire Closure. 1430 Larch Lakes Not maintained 1431 Cool Creek Not maintained 1432 45 Mile Drive Not maintained 1433 Pyramid Mountain Not maintained 1434 Duncan Hill Closed for the season due to the Duncan Fire Closure. 1435 Anthem Creek Closed for the season due to the Duncan Fire Closure. 1436 Fern Lake Not maintained 1437 North Fork Entiat River Closed from the trailhead to the junction with Pyramid Creek Trail No. 1439. 1438 Pugh Ridge Not maintained 1439 Pyramid Creek Not maintained 1440 Butte Creek Not maintained 1441 Pyramid View Point Not maintained Silver Falls National 1442 Closed for the season due to the Duncan Fire Closure. Recreation Trails 1443 Lake Creek Not maintained 1443 Angle Peak Not maintained 1445 4 Mile Ridge Not maintained 1448 Devils Backbone Not maintained 1453 Pomas Creek Not maintained Silver Falls Interpretive 1462 Temporarily closed Trail 1404A Myrtle Lake Not maintained 1419A Cougar Mtn. Viewpoint Not maintained 1434A Duncan Hill Viewpoint Not maintained
CAMPGROUNDS: Campfires are permitted in designated fire pits at Fox Creek, Lake Creek and Silver Falls campgrounds; no campfires are allowed at Pine Flats.
Campground Location Status Fees Amenities Open 14 miles from Highway $8/vehicle per night 6 campsites and 1 Group Site Pine Flats NO campfires 97A, Mad River Road (extra vehicle $6) water, vault toilets and garbage service allowed 27 miles from Highway Open $10/vehicle per night 16 campsites Fox Creek 97A, Entiat River Road Campfires OK (extra vehicle $8) water, vault toilets and garbage service 28 miles from Highway Open $10/vehicle per night 18 campsites Lake Creek 97A, Entiat River Road Campfires OK (extra vehicle $8) water, vault toilets and garbage service 30 miles from Highway Open $12/vehicle per night 31 campsites and 1 Group Site Silver Falls 97A, Entiat River Road Campfires OK (extra vehicle $10) water, vault toilets and garbage service 33 miles from Highway North Fork Closed due to public safety concerns resulting from the Duncan fire. 97A, Entiat River Road 34 miles from Highway Spruce Grove Closed due to public safety concerns resulting from the Duncan fire. 97A, Entiat River Road. 36 miles from Highway Three Creek Closed due to hazardous trees in and around the campground. 97A, Entiat River Road 38 miles from Highway Closed due to public safety concerns resulting from the Duncan fire. Cottonwood 97A, Entiat River Road Cottonwood Cabin is not available for reservation rental.
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DUNCAN FIRE AREA CLOSURE INFORMATION: The 2015 Duncan wildfire has created a situation that has been identified as having serious known dangers. Following the 2015 wildfire, the area was surveyed by a team of hydrologists/soil scientists and other resource specialists. They completed a Burned Area Emergency Rehabilitation (BAER) Plan and based on this review, it was determined that a serious geologic condition existed within the Duncan area that was aggravated by the wildfire. The fire burned off a large portion of the vegetation and trees which traditionally absorbed large amounts of water including snow melt and rain. The lack of vegetation and trees has greatly reduced the absorption of water from the hillside and increased the amount of water, sediment, rocks, and dead vegetation running down the hillside. This situation, combination with the type of soils in this area and geological structure (alluvial fan), has created a serious condition which has significantly increased the potential for landslides, mud flows and other natural events. This area is also known for rapidly occurring weather events which could quickly cause a dangerous situation, limiting the ability to notify and remove publics located in the area within a safe timeline. Human life and safety would be at a "very high" risk if allowed into this area. A closure order is has been approved based on these recommendations and can be viewed at http://go.usa.gov/3kf2m . Although the BAER report says that up to 3-5 years may be required before this area is reasonably safe, we really don’t know how long it will take for nature to correct the current conditions. We do not want to keep this area closed if not warranted, but also want to ensure that public access and use is reasonably safe prior to re-opening. Until specialists can confirm this is the case, we feel closure is necessary to protect forest visitors. We are working to find alternate ways into the Glacier Peak area. Once Shady Pass Road has adequately dried out motorized access will be allowed. A gate was installed just past the Riverside Recreation Residences on the Entiat River Road; this still allows access to Silver Falls Campground. Other alternative routes into the Glacier Peak Wilderness include access via the Wenatchee River area which is southwest of the Entiat River. The Chiwawa River has a couple of developed campsites including Rock Creek Crossing (T29N, R16E, section 25), and Schaefer Creek (T28N, R17E, section 31). The Rock Creek Trail can be accessed by these two developed campsites and requires approximately 5-6 miles of travel north into the Glacier Peak Wilderness. Another route that folks have used is the Shady Pass Road up to the ridgetop between Entiat and Chelan Ranger Districts (north of the area closure). Trail No. 1433 ties in with this road and heads west to trail No. 1440 which continues into Glacier Peak Wilderness. Please stop by the Entiat District office or call to discuss possible routes with recreation and/or front desk specialists.
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METHOW VALLEY RANGER DISTRICT
The office phone number is (509) 996-4003. OFFICE HOURS: Open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. WEATHER: A local weather forecast is available at http://go.usa.gov/f4y . SNOW: As of June 22, patchy snow remained on many trails above 6700 feet, especially on north facing aspects, but is quickly melting with the hot weather. WILDFLOWERS: Mountain trails and meadows are especially beautiful this time of year with a wide variety of wildflowers replacing the melting snow. COMMERCIAL MUSHROOM HARVESTING: The growing season for morel mushrooms is slowing as the weather becomes warmer and drier but harvesters may continue to see mushrooms through July depending upon elevation, slope, aspect and precipitation. Mushroom harvest permits are on sale for commercial harvesting of mushrooms at all Okanogan- Wenatchee National Forest ranger district offices and headquarters office. Information packets translated into five languages along with mushroom harvesting area maps are available when purchasing a permit and on the forest web site at http://www.fs.usda.gov/goto/okawen/mushroom . Collection or possession of more than 3 gallons per day or the intent to sell mushrooms requires a commercial permit. A two-day permit costs $20, a 30-day permit is $50 and a season permit is $100 (the spring season runs from April 20 through July 31; the fall season is from August 1 through December 31). Permits must be in the harvester’s possession when collecting and transporting mushrooms. The only local area where commercial harvesting of mushrooms may occur is in portions of the national forest burned in the Carlton Complex fire on the Methow Valley Ranger District. Individuals with commercial morel harvesting permits will be able to harvest mushrooms only from areas listed on the ranger district mushroom maps they receive at the time they purchase a permit . Two areas have been designated as commercial mushroom harvester camps—North Summit Sno- Park and Black Canyon Sno-Park, both located on the Methow Valley Ranger District. Commercial mushroom harvesters will be directed to use these snow-parks when staying overnight in the national forest. PERSONAL USE MUSHROOM HARVESTING: Harvesting mushrooms for personal use is free and no permit is required. People may harvest, possess and transport morel mushrooms in amounts of less than three gallons per person per day. Personal use mushroom harvesting will be allowed in the national forest area burned in the Carlton Complex and in the Little Bridge Creek and Upper Falls Creek fire areas on the Methow Valley Ranger District. 6-24-2015 Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest Recreation Report page 15 of 28
BICYCLING/MOUNTAIN BIKING: Areas open for mountain biking include Buck Mountain in the Buck Lake area, trails from the Chickadee Trailhead in the Sun Mountain area, Methow Community Trail near Mazama, and Pipestone Canyon. Snow free Forest Service roads open for bicycles include West Chewuch Road No. 51 and No. 5160; they are snow free to Thirtymile Trailhead. Eightmile Creek Road No. 5130, Twisp River Road No. 44 and Road No. 4440 are snow free. NORTH CASCADES HIGHWAY 20 is open. For more information go to: http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/traffic/passes/northcascades . ROADS: District roads are snow free.
* As a result of the Carlton Complex Fire and following weather events, some of the roads described below have experienced debris flows, deep rutting, and/or washouts that make them unsafe or impassable to public traffic. Road Name and Number Conditions Updated Alder Creek/Look-out Mountain The road has water damage, a high clearance vehicle is recommended. 6/22/15 1065-200 Alder Creek 1065-225 Open 6/22/15 *Closed to all public motorized travel from the intersection with FS
Finley Mountain 1590-300 Road #4100-370 (T33, R23E, Sec. 29) to the intersection with FS Road 6/22/15 #41 (T32N, R23E, Sec. 2). *Closed to all public motorized travel from the intersection with FS Finley Canyon 1590-370 Road #4100-300(T33, R23E, Sec. 29) to terminus (T33N, R23E, Sec. 28). 6/22/15 Bear Creek 1631-100 Open 6/22/15 Cougar Creek 1631-200 Open 6/22/15 Ramsey/Tripod 1631-100 Open 6/22/15 Ramsey/Boulder 1631-200 Open 6/22/15 Ramsey 1631-300 Open 6/22/15 North Cascade Highway State Route 20 Open 6/22/15 (West to Washington/Rainy Passes) Jack Creek Hwy 20-103 Open 6/22/15 Frazer Creek Hwy 20-670 Open 6/22/15 Boulder 37 Open 6/22/15 Lower Boulder 3700-980 Open 6/22/15 Boulder Creek to Rogers Lake 39 Open 6/22/15 Black Canyon 4010 Open 6/22/15 Black Canyon 4010-050 CLOSED. The road has washed-out. 6/22/15 Black Canyon 4010-100 Open 6/22/15 South Summit 4100 Open 6/22/15 Benson Creek 4150 Open 6/22/15 *Closed to all public motorized travel from the intersection with FS 6/22/15 Yockey Creek 4150-200 Road No. 4150 (T32N, R23E, Sec. 6) to the intersection with the FS No. 4150-265 (T32N, R23E, Sec. 7). Benson Creek 4150-300 Open 6/22/15 Pole Pick 4150-500 Open 6/22/15 Pole Pick 4150-630 Open 6/22/15 Yockey Creek 4150-265 Open 6/22/15 North Summit 42 Open 6/22/15 Bear Mountain 42 Open 6/22/15 South Beaver 4225 Open 6/22/15 Volstead/Blue Buck 4225-200 Open 6/22/15 Cougar 4225-230 Open 6/22/15 Volstead 4225-400 Open 6/22/15 Beaver Summit 4230 Open 6/22/15 6-24-2015 Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest Recreation Report page 16 of 28
Road Name and Number Conditions Updated Lightening Creek 4230 Open 6/22/15 Starvation Mtn. 4235 Open 6/22/15 Lightning Creek Ridge 4235-195 Open 6/22/15 Buttermilk Libby (Buttermilk portion) Open 6/22/15 43 Buttermilk Libby (Libby portion) 43 Open 6/22/15 Smith Canyon 4300-100 Open 6/22/15 Poorman Creek 4300-300 Open 6/22/15 Buttermilk Butte 4300-400 Open 6/22/15 West Fork Buttermilk Trailhead 4300- 6/22/15 Open 500 CLOSED – The bridge is condemned and unsafe. The road is damaged 6/22/15 West Fork Buttermilk 4300-550 near the bridge from a 2011 washout. The road is snow covered. CLOSED – The bridge is condemned and unsafe. The access road is 6/22/15 West Fork Buttermilk 4300-560 damaged near the bridge from a 2011 washout. The road is snow covered. Buttermilk Creek 4300-600 Open 6/22/15 Buttermilk Creek 4300-610 Open 6/22/15 Newbutter 4300-800 Open 6/22/15 South Fork Gold Creek 4330 Open. Road conditions unknown. 6/22/15 Rainy Creek Road 4330-100 Open 6/22/15 (up the South Fork Gold Creek) North Fork Gold Creek 4340 Open 6/22/15 Middle Fork Gold Creek 4340-100 Open 6/22/15 Foggy Dew 4340-200 Open 6/22/15 Twisp River 44 Open 6/22/15 Coal Rader/Thompson 4410 Open 6/22/15 Thompson Ridge 4410-100 Open 6/22/15 Thompson Ridge 4410-200 Open 6/22/15 Little Wolf Creek 4410-500 Open 6/22/15 Little Wolf Creek 4410-520 Open 6/22/15 Little Wolf Creek 4410-535 Open 6/22/15 Little Bridge Creek 4415 Open 6/22/15 Cow Creek 4415-040 Closed June 1 through June 30. 6/22/15 Deer Creek 4415-050 Closed June 1 through June 30. 6/22/15 Little Bridge Creek Saddle 4415-100 Open 6/22/15 Sheep Creek 4415-175 Closed June 1 through June 30. 6/22/15 Cabin Creek 4415-180 Closed June 1 through June 30. 6/22/15 South Twisp River 4420 Open 6/22/15 West Twisp River 4430 Open 6/22/15 War Creek Trailhead Road 4430-100 Open 6/22/15 Reynolds 4435 Open 6/22/15 Twisp River Road 4440 Open 6/22/15 East Chewuch 5010 Open 6/22/15 West Chewuch 51 Open 6/22/15 Eightmile 5130 Open. The road has been graded to Billy Goat Trailhead. 6/22/15 Buck Lake 5130-100 Open 6/22/15 Buck Lake 5130-105 Open 6/22/15 Buck Lake 5130-115 Open 6/22/15 Buck Lake 5130-140 Open 6/22/15 Buck Mountain 5130-155 Open 6/22/15 Buck Mountain 5130-160 Open 6/22/15 Falls Creek 5140 Open 6/22/15 Doe Mountain 5140-100 Open 6/22/15 Chewuch 5160 Open 6/22/15 Lake Creek 5160-100 Open 6/22/15 Chewuch/30-Mile 5160-250 Open. The road has been graded to 30-Mile Trailhead. 6/22/15 Cub Cr./Goat Cr. 5200 Open 6/22/15 First Creek 5200-030 Open 6/22/15 6-24-2015 Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest Recreation Report page 17 of 28
Road Name and Number Conditions Updated Fifth Creek 5200-150 Open 6/22/15 Goat Creek 5200-315 Open 6/22/15 Short Creek 5200-400 Open 6/22/15 Long Creek 5200-500 CLOSED – the road is washed out. The road is snow covered. 6/22/15 Ortell Creek 5220-200 Closed June 1 through June 30. 6/22/15 Goat Peak 5225-200 Open 6/22/15 Rendezvous Pass 5215 Open 6/22/15 Rendezvous/Fawn 5215-100 Open 6/22/15 Blackpine Basin 5225-600 Open 6/22/15 Sweetgrass Butte 5220-100 Open 6/22/15 Cutthroat 5310-400 Open 6/22/15 Open. Expect delays for road work from June 18 through mid-July. Road 6/22/15 Hart’s Pass 5400 work will include new culvert installation, culvert replacement, cleaning and maintaining ditches, road blading, and application of new gravel. Slate Peak 5400-600 Open 6/22/15 Chancellor 5400-700 Open 6/22/15 Newby Creek 9114-125 Open 6/22/15
WOODCUTTING: Firewood permits are available for purchase at Methow Valley Ranger District office, Pardner’s Mini Mart in Winthrop, Twisp Chevron Food Mart, and Hank’s Market and Hank’s Mini-Mart in Twisp. Firewood cutters need to check the daily Industrial Fire Precaution Level (IFPL) before going out to cut firewood. For current Industrial Fire Precaution Levels call 1-800-527-3305 or go online to https://fortress.wa.gov/dnr/ifpl/IFPL.aspx . Firewood cutters need to know what zone they will be working in. The zones are identified on the Firewood Guide. The Industrial Fire Precaution Level for Zone 684 will change to Level 2 on Wednesday, June 10. CAMPGROUNDS: All Methow Valley Ranger District campgrounds are open. Campsites are available on a first come, first serve basis only. Sites must be occupied and cannot be saved or reserved, even with advanced payment. Any unoccupied sites without someone actually staying there must be available for the next camper. Only two vehicles per campsite; pay the posted fee per night for first vehicle, and an additional $5 charge for the second vehicle. Two tents, or one RV and one tent per site. Fees must be paid within 30 minutes after arriving. Check-out time is noon.
Name Location Current Status HIGHWAY 20 AREA CAMPGROUNDS Early Winters Located on North Cascades National Scenic Highway 20, 16 miles northwest of Winthrop along Early Open, potable water. 2,200 feet Winters Creek. Great views of Goat Wall. Town of Mazama nearby. Campsites on north and south sides of $8 per site. Highway 20. Maximum length is 32 feet. Klipchuck Located one mile off North Cascades National Scenic Highway 20, 19 miles northwest of Winthrop. Stream Open, potable water. 2,900 feet and good hiking opportunities nearby. Units combinable to accommodate groups. Rattlesnakes occasionally $12 per site seen in the area. Maximum length of campsite is 34 feet. Lone Fir Located one mile off North Cascades National Scenic Highway 20, 27 miles northwest of Winthrop. Near Open, potable water. 3,600 feet Cutthroat Lake trailhead. Timbered area. Short hiking trail from camp. Good overnight spot for bicyclists. $12 per site Next campground westbound located at Ross Lake. Some sites handle up to 36-foot long vehicles.
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LOST RIVER - HART'S PASS AREA CAMPGROUNDS Ballard On forest road 5400, 22 miles northwest of Winthrop. Access to Robinson Creek, W. Fork Methow and Lost Open, no potable 2,500 feet River/Monument Creek trails. Maximum length of site is 28 feet. water. $8 per site. River Bend On forest road 5400, 23 miles northwest of Winthrop. Access to Robinson Creek, W. Fork Methow and Lost Open, no potable 2,600 feet River/Monument Creek trails. Maximum length of site is 28 feet. water. $8 per site. Hart's Pass On forest road 5400, 34 miles northwest of Winthrop. Narrow, windy mountain road with steep side cliffs in Open, no potable 6,200 feet places. Yield to trucks. ROAD CLOSED TO ALL TRAILERS. Access to Pacific Crest Trail. Guard station. water. $8 per site. Trailers not allowed on Hart's Pass Road No. 5400. Meadows On forest road 5400, 33 miles northwest of Winthrop. Narrow, windy mountain road with steep side cliffs in Open, no potable 6,200 feet places. Yield to trucks. ROAD CLOSED TO ALL TRAILERS. Access to Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail. water. $8 per site. Trailers not allowed on Hart's Pass Road No. 5400.
8 MILE AREA CAMPGROUNDS Buck Lake On forest road 5130-100, 12 miles north of Winthrop. Small, quiet campground. Boat landing, adequate for Open, no potable 3,300 feet small crafts. Successful fishing early in the year. Lake stocked. Mountain biking opportunities. Maximum water. $8 per site. length of site is 25 feet. Flat On paved forest road 5130, 12 miles north of Winthrop. Easy access for trailers. Maximum length of site is Open, potable water 2,700 feet 36 feet. on. $8 per site. Nice On paved forest road 5130, 13 miles north of Winthrop. Near a beaver pond. Small campground good for Open, no potable 2,900 feet small group camping. Maximum length of site is 36 feet. water. $8 per site. Ruffed Grouse On forest Road No. 5130, 17 miles north of Winthrop. Small campground good for small group camping. Open, potable water. 3,100 feet Maximum length of site is 35 feet. $8 per site. Honeymoon On forest Road No. 5130, 18 miles north of Winthrop. Small quaint camp located along Eightmile Creek and Open, no potable 3,300 elevation Road No. 5130. Named after honeymoon spot of past forest ranger and wife. Maximum length of 22 feet. water. $8 per site.
CHEWUCH AREA CAMPGROUNDS Falls Creek On paved forest Road No. 51, 11 miles north of Winthrop along the Chewuch River and Falls Creek. Open, potable water. 2,100 elevation Swimming opportunities in summer. 1/4 mile hike to scenic falls on Falls Creek. Maximum length of site is $8 per site. 18 feet. Chewuch On paved forest Road No. 51, 15 miles north of Winthrop along the Chewuch River and Falls Creek. Small, Open, potable water. 2,300 elevation remote campground surrounded by ponderosa pine trees. Walking and bicycling opportunities. Maximum $12 per site. length of some sites is 35 feet. Camp 4 On paved forest Road No. 51, 18 miles north of Winthrop along the Chewuch River and Falls Creek. Hiking Open, no potable 2,400 elevation and driving opportunities nearby. Some sites maximum length of site is 16 feet. Trailers not recommended. water. $8 per site.
TWISP RIVER AREA CAMPGROUNDS War Creek Turn west off Highway 20 onto paved Okanogan County road 9114 (Twisp River Road), that turns into forest Open, potable water. 2,400 elevation road 44 for 14.4 miles northwest of Twisp. Trailheads nearby. Small forested campground located by the $8 per site. Twisp River. Enjoy hiking and bicycling. Rattlesnakes occasionally seen near the area. Maximum length of site is 25 feet. Mystery Turn west off Highway 20 onto paved Okanogan County Road No. 9114 (Twisp River Road), that turns into Open, no potable 2,800 elevation forest Road No. 44 for 18 miles northwest of Twisp. Small quiet forested campground located by the Twisp water. $8 per site. River. Enjoy hiking and bicycling. Maximum length of site is 30 feet. Poplar Flat Turn west off Highway 20 onto paved Okanogan County Road No. 9114 (Twisp River Road), that turns into Open, potable water. 2,900 elevation forest Road No. 44 for 21 miles northwest of Twisp. Community kitchen, access to Twisp River Trail, with $8 per site. other trailheads nearby. Good group campground and picnic area for up to 12 people. Maximum length of site is 30 feet. South Creek Turn west off Highway 20 onto paved Okanogan County Road No. 9114 (Twisp River Road), that turns into Open, no potable 3,100 feet forest Road No. 44 for 22 miles northwest of Twisp. Located by the Twisp River. Access to trailheads for day water. $8 per site. hikes. Enjoy bicycling and scenic drives. Maximum length of site is 30 feet. Road's End Turn west off Highway 20 onto paved Okanogan County Road No. 9114 (Twisp River Road), that turns into Open, no potable 3,600 feet forest Road No. 44 for 22 miles northwest of Twisp. Quaint, quiet forested campground at the end of Twisp water. $8 per site. River Road located by the Twisp River. Trailhead is nearby. Maximum length of site is 16 feet. Black Pine Lake Turn west off Highway 20 onto paved Okanogan County Road No. 9114 (Twisp River Road), travel 10 miles Open, potable water 4200 feet to Buttermilk Creek Road, cross the bridge across Twisp River, stay to the left and travel on forest road 43 on. $12 per site. for 8 miles to the campground. 18 miles southwest of Twisp. Majestic landscape views. Boat launch, fishing, two floating docks. Interpretive accessible trail. Picnic area for up to 12 people. Maximum length of site is 30 feet. 6-24-2015 Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest Recreation Report page 19 of 28
Twisp River Horse Campground is intended for stock users Turn west off Highway 20 onto paved Okanogan County Road No. Open, no potable Camp 9114 (Twisp River Road), that turns into forest Road No. 44. After War Creek Campground, cross the Twisp water. Northwest 3,000 feet River and continue on forest Road No. 4430 which turns into forest Road No. 4435, travel to the end of the Forest pass required. road, turn right into the campground for a total of 22.6 miles northwest of Twisp. Access to nearby trails. Loading ramp, hitch rails and feed stations. Maximum length of site is 30 feet. This camp is maintained by the Methow Valley Chapter of the Backcountry Horsemen of Washington.
LOUP LOUP AREA CAMPGROUNDS
JR Located off State Highway 20, 11.5 miles east of Twisp. Maximum length of site is 25 feet. Open, no potable water. $8 per site.
Loup Loup Turn north off State Highway 20 onto forest road 42, 12.5 miles east of Twisp. Good location for large Open, potable water groups. Access to mountain bike trails, scenic drives. Maximum length of site is 36 feet. on. $12 per site.
GOLD CREEK AREA CAMPGROUNDS
Foggy Dew Hiking, mountain biking. Access to motorbike use area. Rattlesnakes occasionally seen in the area. Site Open, no potable number 3 is closed due to possible site flooding. Maximum length of site is 25 feet. water. $8 per site.
TRAILS: All trails at higher elevations have varying amounts of snow cover. Trail Name and Current Status Date Number Snow at higher elevations. Use caution at Little Andrews Creek crossing as the bridge is Andrews Creek 504 gone and water is high when snow is melting. The beginning 12 miles of this trail burned 6/22/15 over in 2003. Bear Mountain 442 Open, snow free and cleared of down trees. 6/22/15 Beaver Lake 356 The trail is snow free but has down trees. 6/22/15 Blue Lake Trail 314 The trail is muddy last ¼ mile before Blue Lake. Down trees not yet cleared. 6/22/15 Blue Buck Trail 314 This trail burned over in 2006. Trail has not been cleared of down trees. 6/22/15
The beginning 5 miles of this trail burned over in 2006. Trail is snow free. No bridge Boundary Trail Irongate 6/22/15 across Pasayten River. CAUTION: High water at the ford until the end of July. to Pasayten River 533
Boundary Trail Down trees have not been removed from trail. No bridge across Pasayten River, use ford 6/22/15 Pasayten River Trail 533 ¾ mile north of old bridge site. CAUTION: Usually high water at the ford until the end of to PCT July. The trail is rarely maintained. Only 1.5 miles at the north end of the trail did not burn in Burch Mountain 538 6/22/15 2014 wildfire. Buckskin Ridge 498 Snow on trails above 6500 feet. 6/22/15 Cady Pass 475 Condition unknown. 6/22/15 Snow on the trail above 6,200 feet. The trail has not been maintained for over 8 years. 6/22/15 Castle Pass 749 The trail is impassable to stock with many down trees on the the trail, especially in the lower elevations, making trail very difficult for hikers also. Open to the waterfalls at 1.7 miles with snow 1.5 miles before Abernathy Pass. The trail Cedar Creek Trail 476 6/22/15 has not cleared of many down trees above Cedar Falls. Only a short portion of the trail is open. The trail is no longer maintained. Closed due Chancellor/Canyon 6/22/15 trail washouts that occurred in 2011. Closed to stock from Boulder Creek to Mill Creek. Creek Trail The trail is closed to hikers from Mill Creek to Cedar Crossing. The trail from Chancellor 754 CFR Trail Closures to Sky Pilot Pass is not maintained, down trees block stock. The trail is snow free to Basin Creek, but has many, many down trees. Down trees have Chewuch 510 6/55/15 not been cleared from the trail. The trail has not been maintained since a 2003 wildfire, there are many, many down trees Coleman Ridge 505 6/22/15 on the trail. Copper Glance 519 Down trees have not been cleared from the trail. 6/22/15 Copper Pass 426 Down trees have not been cleared from the trail. 6/22/15 Crater Creek Trail 416 Down trees have not been cleared from the trail. 6/22/15 Crater Mountain 746 The trail is not maintained. 6/22/15 Use caution on the log crossings over creeks. The trail is snow free to the lake and 2 Cutthroat Creek 400 6/22/15 miles beyond the lake. Down trees have not been cleared from the trail. The trail burned over in a 2003 wildfire and has many down trees and some washout 6/22/15 Crystal Lake 517 areas. This trail has not been maintained for many years, and is impassable for stock and challenging for hikers.
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Trail Name and Current Status Date Number This trail has not been cleared of down trees or maintained for many, many years so it is Dean Creek Trail 456 6/22/15 difficult for hikers and is impassable to stock. Devils Ridge Trail 752 Down trees have not been cleared from the trail. 6/22/15 Diamond Jack 514 Down trees have not been cleared from the trail. 6/22/15 Drake Creek 502A Down trees have not been cleared from the trail. 6/22/15 Driveway Butte Trail 6/22/15 Open and snow free. 481 A large down tree blocks the trail just past the wilderness boundary and two avalanche 6/22/15 Eagle Creek 410 paths have deposited mud and debris on the trail making the trail difficult for hikers and blocks stock. Down trees not cleared from trail. Eagle Lakes 416 The trail is mostly snow free. Down trees have not been cleared from the trail. 6/22/15 Early Winters Trail 522 Open. Down trees have not been cleared from the trail. 6/22/15 The bridge is out and the trail is no longer maintained. Granite Creek is high during spring East Creek 756 6/22/15 melt. East Fork Buttermilk Down trees have not been cleared from the trail. 6/22/15 420 East Fork Pasayten 6/22/15 Down trees have not been cleared for 4 years, impassable to stock. 451 Snow on the trail about 2 miles from the trailhead (route finding and ice axe skills 6/22/15 required to reach Easy Pass). Down trees not cleared from trail. Fisher Creek Trail on Easy Pass 741 the North Cascades National Park is closed east of Cosho Camp due to proximity of Thunder Creek Fire. Falls Creek Trail 518 Open 6/22/15 Ferguson Lake 474A Down trees have not been cleared from the trail. 6/22/15 The trail is no longer maintained since a 2003 wildfire, there are many down trees that Fire Creek 561 6/22/15 block stock use of the trail. Foggy Dew Creek Trail 17 down trees on the trail, none are significant impediments to hikers or bikers. Down 6/22/15 Section 1 417 trees have not been cleared from the trail. From the upper bench in Marchant’s Basin, at 6.7 miles at 7,400 feet, to the pass at 7 6/8/15 miles and 7,940 feet (junction with Cooney Lake trail), the trail is about 50% covered with Foggy Dew Creek Trail consolidated snow. The traverse from the Trail 434 junction to the ridge above the Angel’s Section 2 Staircase crosses a few snow chutes, but a backpacker with his dog managed this trail 417A section. Sunrise Lake and Cooney Lake are snow covered. Avalanche lilies are blooming in Merchant’s Basin. Fred's Lake Trail 474 Down trees have not been cleared from the trail. 6/22/15 Goat Peak Trail 457 Down trees have not been cleared from the trail. 6/22/15 Hidden Lakes 477 The trail is snow free and cleared of down trees to Hidden Lakes. 6/22/15 Holman Creek 472A Patchy snow on the trail. Down trees have not been cleared from the trail. 6/22/15 The trail has snow in higher elevations. Trail conditions unknown Down trees have not Jackita Ridge 738 6/22/15 been cleared from the trail. Larch Creek/Billy Goat The trail has snow at higher elevations. Down trees have not been cleared from the trail. 6/22/15 Pass 502 Lake Ann/Maple Pass Most of the trail above Heather Pass is still snow covered. Down trees have not been 6/22/15 Loop Trail 740 cleared from the trail. Open, snow free to Black Lake. The trail has many, many down trees. The trail burned over in a 2003 wildfire and is no longer maintained beyond Black Lake. Many snags long Lake Creek Trail 500 the trail could come down in windy weather. The trail to Black Lake is heavily used, and 6/22/15 most visitors do not travel beyond it. There is limited camping in the Black Lake area. Down trees will be cleared to Black Lake in late spring. Leecher Lookout Trail Snow free. The access road is closed to motorized traffic. 6/22/15 Libby Creek 415 Patchy snow at higher elevations. Down trees have not been cleared from the trail. 6/22/15 Snow free. The trail is logged out from forest Road No. 4230 to the bottom except for one 36-inch diameter tree approximately a half mile from the bottom. Hikers and mountain bikers can easily get over or around this tree. Also, one tree below the trailhead gate is Lightning Creek 425 6/22/15 across the trail approximately 8 feet above the ground. Several trees are down in the parking area. The upper section of the trail above Road 4230 has approximately 50 trees down. Lookout Mountain Trail Down trees have not been cleared from the trail. 412 6/22/15 Lone Fir 535 No snow on the trail. 6/22/15 Louis Lake 428 Down trees have not been cleared from the trail. 6/22/15 Maple Pass Loop 740 Snow on the trail above Heather Pass. 6/22/15 6-24-2015 Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest Recreation Report page 21 of 28
Trail Name and Current Status Date Number Martin Creek 429 Down trees not cleared from trail. 6/22/15 Middle Fk. Beaver Creek 406 Snow free, logged out and passable. 6/22/15 Down trees on the trail but none that hikers couldn't get around or over pretty easily. The old bridge, at 4 miles, across Eureka Creek is washed out. The trail north of the bridge Monument Creek Trail site at Eureka Creek has not been maintained for 30 years. The non-maintained trail has 6/22/15 484 many, many down trees and has areas with trail washouts making it impassable to stock and very difficult for hikers to follow. North Fork 20 Mile Trail Snow free. Much of this trail burned over in a 2006 wildfire. This trail is brushy and has 6/22/15 560 some down trees and washout areas. Snow is almost gone, only small patches of snow remain on the trail ¼ mile before the North Creek 413 6/22/15 lake, passable to hikers. Down trees have not been removed from the trail. Patchy snow on the trail is passable to hikers. Many down trees have not been removed Oval Lakes 410A 6/22/15 from the trail. Pacific Crest Trail The trail is snow free but there is a down tree across the log crossing that replaces the (Bridge Creek to collapsed bridge at 1 mile south of Bridge Creek Trailhead, use caution at the log 6/22/15 Stehekin) 2000 crossing. Caution: The first creek ford ,at Porcupine Creek, is very high. Patchy snow on the trail Pacific Crest Trail (Hwy is passable to hikers. Trail is not recommended for stock as it is a very, very narrow trail 20 to Harts Pass) 2000 6/22/15 from Granite Pass to Methow Pass. Down trees have not been removed from the trail. Hikers from PCT to Canada need a Canadian entry permit, stamped and signed by a Canadian Border Services Agent. Note there is currently no legal way to enter the US Pacific Crest Trail from Canada on the PCT 2000 6/22/15 (Hart’s Pass to Canada) Patchy snow on the trail is passable to hikers. Down trees have not been removed from the trail. Pearrygin Peak 526 Open 6/22/15 Peepsight 525 This trail burned over in 2003. It is no longer maintained. 6/22/15 Rainy Lake Trail 310 Open. Down trees have not been removed from the trail. 6/22/15 Patchy snow on the trail; passable to hikers. Down trees have not been cut out of trail. Reynolds Creek 402 6/22/15 This trail is no longer maintained. Use caution as creek crossings are high during spring run-off. The trail has not been Robinson Pass 478 6/22/15 cleared of down trees. The trail has patchy snow. This trail, near the Pacific Crest Trail, has been impassable for Rock Creek 473 6/22/15 stock for the last 2 years due to a very large tree with a large root-wad blocking the trail. Scatter Creek 427 Down trees will be cleared to wilderness boundary. 6/22/15 Slate Creek 414 Down trees are cleared to the wilderness boundary. 6/22/15 South Creek Trail 401 Patchy snow at higher elevations. The trail has not been cleared of down trees. 6/22/15 Stub Creek/Deception The trail beyond Hidden Lake has not been maintained for many, many, many years. Pass 458 6/22/15 Sunrise Lake 417.2 The trail is covered with snow. 6/22/15 Tatoosh Buttes 485 The trail has not been cleared of down trees. 6/22/15 Tungsten 534 Patchy snow at highest elevations. The trail has not been cleared of down trees. 6/22/15 The trail is snow covered a half mile before Twisp Pass. The trail has not been cleared of Twisp Pass Trail 432 6/22/15 down trees. Twisp River Trail 440 Creek crossings are high. Down trees have been cleared from the trail. 6/22/15 Snow free 8.5 miles at about 5,900 feet elevation. There are about 16 down trees on the War Creek 408 trail (4 inches to 24 inches in diameter). Logs across the trail at 1.8 mile, 2.9 miles and a 6/22/15 jumble of logs at 7.6 miles blocks stock travel. Trails not cleared of down trees. Washington Pass Road gate is open and the trail is open. The trail does NOT require a Northwest Forest 6/22/15 Overlook Pass. West Fork Buttermilk Many blow-downs on the trail, snow is patchy at 5,000 feet, then beyond snow is 4 feet 6/22/15 411 deep. Down trees will be cleared when snow melts. This trail was cleared of down trees to 1.3 miles then the trail is impassable for stock and very difficult for hikers in the area badly damaged by avalanche debris in 2013/2014, at West Fork Methow Trail 1.7 miles. The trail is currently waiting for repairs as the damaged portion of the trail 6/22/15 480 needs major overhaul or relocation. The remaining trail has many, many scattered down trees throughout the old 2003 burn area (avoid this trail during windy weather). The trail has brushy areas, watch for rattlesnakes, ticks and moose. West Fork Pasayten 472 Patchy snow on the trail. The trail has not been cleared of down trees. 6/22/15 Whistler Cutoff 575 Patchy snow on the trail. The trail has not been cleared of down trees. 6/22/15 Williams Creek 407 Patchy snow on the trail. The trail has not been cleared of down trees. 6/22/15 The trail is snow free 10.5 miles to Gardener Meadows, trail is cleared of down trees and Wolf Creek Trail 527 6/22/15 passable to stock. 6-24-2015 Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest Recreation Report page 22 of 28
NACHES RANGER DISTRICT
The office phone number is (509) 653-1401. OFFICE HOURS: The Naches Ranger Station foyer is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week to make handouts and forest information available to the public during non-office hours. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The office is closed daily for lunch from noon to 12:30. No permit sales after 4 p.m. FIRE DANGER: The fire danger is high and campfire restrictions go into effect on June 26. No campfires will be allowed on the Naches Ranger District expect in designated wilderness areas. BOULDER CAVE DAY USE SITE IS OPEN (Ya hoo!): The day use site and the trail are now open. Reconstruction work has been completed. CAMPGROUNDS: All the campgrounds on the Naches Ranger District are open. Kaner Flat Campground has both first come, first served camping sites and reservation sites. Reservations can be made through the National Recreation Reservation Service by calling their toll free number 877-444-6777 or by going online to their web site at www.recreation.gov . GROUP RESERVATION SITES: Reservations for group camp sites need to be made through the National Recreation Reservation Service by calling their toll free number 877.444.6777 or by going online to their web site at www.recreation.gov . American Ridge Lodge and American River Guard Station group reservation sites are open year-round; the other group sites reopened on Memorial Day weekend.
Registration Area Group Reservation Sites Daily Fee Fee American Ridge Lodge - Open $100 $10 American River Guard Station - Open $ 50 $10 Chinook Pass Indian Flat - Open $100 $10 State Route 410 Kaner Flat - Open $ 60 $10 Pine Needle - Open $ 50 $10 Salmon Cove - Open $ 50 $10 White Pass Clear Lake - North - Open $ 60 $10 U.S. Highway 12 South Fork - Open $ 60 $10
WILDFLOWERS: The best spot to find blooming flowers is along the Pacific Crest Trail. They are in full bloom right now. WOODCUTTING: The current Industrial Fire Precaution Level for zones 675 and 680 is level 2 which limits woodcutting between the hours of 8 p.m. to 1 p.m.
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Woodcutting permits are being sold at the Naches Ranger District office from 8 a.m. to noon and from 12:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. No permits are sold after 4 p.m. The office is closed on holidays. Another way woodcutters can obtain a woodcutting permit is by mail. Those selecting this option need to include the following information: Customer’s full name, street address, city, state, zip code, phone number (include area code), driver’s license id, and driver’s license id expiration date. Checks should be made out to U.S. Forest Service. The cost is $5 per cord with a minimum purchase of four cords for $20 per wood permit; the maximum limit is 12 cords for the season. Mail checks and required information to Naches Ranger District, 10237 U.S. Highway 12, Naches, WA, 98937. TRAILS: Crow Lake Way Trail No. 953 is closed until further notice due to flood damage. A large portion of the trail washed away in floodwaters in April. TRAVEL ESSENTIALS: Always be prepared for any kind of weather and/or road conditions. Bring extra clothes, food and water, map, compass and/or GPS, matches, fire starter, pocketknife, first aid kit, sunglasses, flashlight and extra batteries. Please have extra blankets, a shovel, flares, tire chains, basic tools and have toilet paper in your vehicle. WILDERNESS TRAILS: Snow level is around 8,000 feet elevation. Be prepared for cold weather conditions in the higher elevation areas when recreating in the national forest. Before leaving home, always leave a detailed written trip itinerary with a responsible family member or friend. To check out current conditions at White Pass or any of the other state mountain passes go to http://www.Wsdot.com/traffic/passes . Washington Trails Association web site (www.wta.org) is also an excellent site for obtaining updates on current trail conditions. ROADS: Expect roads to be mostly dry and dusty, drive accordingly.
FLOOD DAMAGED ROADS THAT REMAIN CLOSED:
Road Name and Flood Damaged Roads that are CLOSED Number Closed to all motorized traffic for 5.1 miles from the junction of Forest Road No. 1500/1501 Little Rattlesnake Road (T15N, R15E, Sec. 10) to the junction of Forest Road No. 1501 and Forest Road No. 1503 No. 1501 (T15N, R14E, Sec. 24). Road has been decommissioned from Milepost 2.0 to 2.1. Areas below the decommissioned Gold Creek Road area can be accessed via Forest Road 1703. Areas above the decommissioned area can be No. 1703 accessed via Forest Road No. 1705. The road is open to trail users and snowmobiles. Wildcat Road Closed to all motorized traffic because of a 30 foot slump in the road and a large culvert that is No. 1306 eroded and damaged. Indian Creek Road Closed due to flood waters and large debris that washed out and blocked the last portion of No. 1308 the road to the trailhead.
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TONASKET RANGER DISTRICT
The office phone number is (509) 486-2186. OFFICE HOURS: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. with a 30-minute closure for lunch from 12:30 to 1 p.m. During non-business hours, free forest information is available in the cabinets outside the main entrance to the district office. ROADS: Use caution when traveling on forest roads. Be sure to look at the free Okanogan National Forest Travel Plan Map for more information (available at national forest offices or online at http://go.usa.gov/64Kk ). For current road conditions please call the Tonasket Ranger District office at 509- 486-2186. Road Number and Name Condition 3200 Bonaparte lake to Beaver Lake Open 3200-50 Strawberry Mountain Open 3230 Henderson Creek/Mill Creek Open 3235 Phoebe Mountain (Burge Mt.) Open Box Canyon 33 Open 3300 Meyers Creek Open 3300-100 Spur Mountain Road to Lost Lake Open 34 Four Corners to Chesaw Open 30 Aeneas/Crawfish Open 3000-200 Aeneas Valley to Tunk Mountain Open 3000-285 Open 3000-290 Open The road is impassable to vehicles. It 30015-100 Dugout Mountain Road washed out again in the same spot as last year. 3120 Tratnik Road Open 3125 Gardner Creek Road Open Four-wheel drive or high clearance vehicles 3575-120 Cow Camp Road recommend. 37 Middle Salmon-Boulder Creek to Open 3700 West Fork 3800 North Fork Salmon Creek Open 3800-025 Ray Road/Muckamuck Open 3820 Lone Frank Pass Closed 39 Toats Coulee to Long Swamp Open 3900-100 14 Mile Open 3900-500 Iron Gate Rough road surface with some snow
WOODCUTTING: Woodcutting permits are available at the Tonasket Ranger District office from 8 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. and at the Okanogan Valley office from 7:30 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. Monday through Friday. Firewood permits may also be purchased at The Junction in Tonasket, Conconully General Store, and Riverside Grocery. These permits may only be used for woodcutting on the Tonasket Ranger District and Methow Valley Ranger District. Woodcutting permits are non-refundable. Please review the free Okanogan National Forest Travel Plan Map for the areas open for use. 6-24-2015 Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest Recreation Report page 25 of 28
The current Industrial Fire Precaution Levels (IFPL) for the Tonasket Ranger District is at Level 1 for Zone 678 and 2 for Zone 684. During Level 2 (Partial Hoot owl) power saws may only be used between the hours of 8 p.m. and 1 p.m. CAMPGROUNDS: All campgrounds in the Tonasket Ranger District are open. The group site at Lost Lake campground is available by reservation only. This site is generally booked far in advance. Please make your reservations early. Go online at www.recreation.gov or call 877-444-6777 to reserve the Lost Lake group campsite. All other campsites on the Tonasket District are on a first-come, first-serve basis with no reservation needed. TRAILS: District trail crews and volunteers are working on trails in the area. Trail users should expect to encounter downed trees on the trails until crews have the opportunity to service all trails on the district. Whistler Canyon Trailhead provides hikers easy access to the Hull Mountain area. The trailhead is south of Oroville on Hwy 97. In addition to Whistler Canyon, the Five Lakes Area of the Tonasket Ranger District has enough trails for a summer full of outdoor fun.
Recommended Trails in the Five Lakes Area Trail Access Area Distance Pipsissewa Trail No. 383 Bonaparte Lake Trails 2 miles Southside Trail No. 308 Bonaparte Lake Trails 3 miles Virginia Lilly Trail No. 322 Bonaparte Lake Trails 4 miles 4th of July Ridge Trail No. 307 Havillah Road Trails 7.3 miles Cabin Trail No. 303 Havillah Road Trails 2.5 miles Antoine Trail No. 304 Havillah Road Trails 4.2 miles Big Tree Trail No. 311 Lost Lake Trails 2.7 miles Strawberry Mountain No. 309 Lost Lake Trails 1.7 miles Beth Lake Trail No. 316 Beaver and Beth Lake 1.9 miles
Trailheads leading to the Pasayten Wilderness are open. A pass is required at Irongate, Chewuch, Fourteen Mile, and Long Swamp trailheads. Please use caution when hiking during the spring season. Go to the forest website at http://go.usa.gov/8fKA for a complete list of trails and directions. RECREATION PASSES: Recreation passes cost $5 per vehicle per day or $30 for an annual Northwest Forest Pass. Interagency Passes are also honored at trailheads. Passes are available at the ranger district office or online at www.discovernw.org .
WENATCHEE RIVER RANGER DISTRICT
The office phone number is (509) 548-2550. SUMMER OFFICE HOURS START: 7:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday. WOODCUTTING: The minimum permit purchase is four cords for $20. 6-24-2015 Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest Recreation Report page 26 of 28
LOGGING is OCCURRING: The Shaser Creek ATV route, located on Road No. 7322 in the Blewett Pass area, is closed to all public use Monday through Friday from 5 a.m. to 5 p.m. Logging operations are occurring in this area necessitating the closure of this road. Logging is also occurring in the Merry Canyon and Van Creek areas. Expect to encounter logging trucks and equipment in these areas. Please drive carefully. ROADS: Smithbrook/Rainy Creek Road No. 6700 is open. Little Wenatchee Road No. 6500 is open all the way to end of road. Mission Creek Road No. 7100 is open; the gate on Number 2 Canyon Road is open. Ranger Road No. 7701 is open. Beehive Road No. 9712 is open to Clara Lake trailhead. Logging trucks will start hauling logs on Sand Creek Road No. 7104 starting on May 15 and will continue for 4-6 weeks. No hauling will occur on weekends except when equipment is moved into the area. Icicle Road No. 7600 is open to the end of the road. Chiwawa River Road No. 6200 is driveable to Alder Ridge. The road has washed out above Atkinson Flat Campground. The road is open to the end of the pavement, the gate is now open. Van Creek Road is open. Tip Top Road No. 7201 is impassable due to the road sloughing off to the downhill side. White River Road No. 6400 is open to the end of the road.
CAMPGROUNDS: White River Road tour stop No. 4 has no campground access except for Napeequa Campground. The view point road is open. Campground fees have increased by $1-2 this year. Please check www.fs.usda.gov/okawen for current updates. Area Campground Name Fees Status $20 per night 1st vehicle OPEN with fees & services Eightmile $10 extra vehicle (27 sites are reservable* and 18 are first come, first serve) $17 per night 1st vehicle Bridge Creek OPEN with fees & services $10 extra vehicle $20 per night 1st vehicle Lower Johnny Creek OPEN with fees & services $12 extra vehicle $17 per night 1st vehicle Upper Johnny Creek OPEN with fees & services Icicle $10 extra vehicle Creek $17 per night 1st vehicle Ida Creek OPEN with fees & services $10 extra vehicle $16 per night 1st vehicle Chatter Creek OPEN with fees & services $ 9 extra vehicle $16 per night 1st vehicle Rock Island OPEN with fees & services $ 9 extra vehicle $15 per night 1st vehicle Black Pine OPEN with fees & services $ 8 extra vehicle CLOSED indefinitely due to fire and flood Highway 2 Tumwater hazard potential. No camping is permitted. $21 per night 1st vehicle Nason Creek OPEN with fees & services Lake $12 extra vehicle Wenatchee $16 per night 1st vehicle Glacier View OPEN with fees & services $ 9 extra vehicle CLOSED due to hazardous trees in the area. Little Soda Springs No camping is permitted. Wenatchee River Rainy Creek No fee OPEN Lake Creek No fee OPEN Chiwawa $13 per night 1st vehicle Goose Creek OPEN River $8 extra vehicle
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* RESERVATION SITES: To reserve one of the large group sites at Eightmile, Bridge Creek, Tumwater, and Grouse Creek Campgrounds, or campsites at Eightmile Campground, please call the National Reservation line at 1-877-444-6777 via the Internet at www.recreation.gov . Reservations may be made up to one year in advance but cannot be made less than 7 days from the stay date. E-PASSES NOW AVAILABLE ONLINE: Northwest Forest passes can be purchased online. A day pass is $5 and an annual pass is $30. Go to http://www.fs.usda.gov/main/okawen/passes- permits/recreation to purchase these permits. TRAILS: Forest visitors will encounter snow on higher elevation forest trails. Please refer to www.NWHikers.net for real time postings and conditions from fellow hikers. Beverly Creek Trail No. 1391 is snow covered with only a few bare areas beyond the junction of Beverly Creek and Bean Creek trails. The snow is firm in the mornings. There are four or five logs across the trail. Rock Mountain Trailhead is almost snow free Ingalls Creek Trail No. 1215 is open; be aware of hazards from snags and rolling rocks Sand Creek Trail is open Mission Creek Trail No. 1201 is open to Devils Gulch Irving Pass Trailhead is OPEN; there is some snow over the last 500 yards Little Wenatchee Trailhead upper gate is closed until further notice. There are big ruts in the road approximately 3 miles from the gate Nason Ridge trail is snow free to the junction with Round Mountain trailhead. There are large patches of snow to Alpine Lookout but the trail is do-able (5/28/15). Heather Lake Trailhead is open Top Lake Trailhead is open Lake Minotaur Trailhead is open Chiwaukum Trailhead is open Fourth of July Trailhead is open Due to public safety concerns resulting from the Chiwaukum Fire, Hatchery Creek Trail No. 1557 is CLOSED to public entry Snow Lakes Trail No. 1553 is logged out and open
ENCHANTMENT PERMITS: Overnight Wilderness permits are required from June 15 to October 15 for the Enchantment Area of the Alpine Lakes Wilderness. For more information please contact www.Recreation.gov or call Wenatchee River Ranger Station at 509-548-2550. A daily lottery drawing occurs on the front porch of the Forest Service office in Leavenworth promptly at 7:45 a.m. Monday – Saturday, through October 15. We recommend people arrive at the ranger station around 7:30 a.m. for the daily lottery. Good Luck to all! RECREATION PASSES: Passes are required at the following trailheads on the Wenatchee River Ranger District. This list includes only the trailhead names and does not show each individual trail. Basalt Ridge Hidden Lake * Red Hill * Buck Creek (Trinity) Ingalls Creek * Rock Creek Blackpine Icicle Creek Round Mountain Chiwaukum Creek Icicle Gorge * Snow Lakes * Devil’s Gulch (Lower) * Jack/Trout Stuart Lake * Dirtyface Little Wenatchee * Twin Lakes Eightmile* Lower Chiwawa White River Estes Butte Nason Ridge Day passes can also be purchased during the summer months from fee tubes at the trailheads noted with * above. 6-24-2015 Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest Recreation Report page 28 of 28
Recreation day use passes cost $5 per vehicle per day or $30 for an annual Northwest Forest Pass. Passes are available locally at the ranger district office, Leavenworth 76 gas stations (both Highway 2 and Icicle Junction), Der Sportsman, Sleeping Lady Gift Shop, Pioneer Market in Cashmere, Midway Village, Parkside Grocery, and Plain Hardware in the Lake Wenatchee area. Interagency Passes are also honored at trailheads and are available for purchase at the ranger district office. WEATHER: Go to www.NOAA.gov for current weather conditions; use zip code 98826 for weather conditions in the Leavenworth area. Remember, weather conditions can change rapidly. Be prepared for cold and possibly snowy weather conditions! Local weather forecasts are available from the National Weather Service at http://go.usa.gov/3Bj4j .