Editor’s Note: Recreation Reports are printed every other week. August 13, 2013
In Chelan County, campfires are allowed only in metal fire rings in national forest campgrounds, summer home sites under special use permit and most wilderness areas on the Chelan, Entiat and Wenatchee River Ranger Districts. Contact the Chelan Ranger District office at 509-682-2576 for specific campfire restrictions for the Chelan-Sawtooth Wilderness area. Contact the Entiat Ranger District office at 509-784-1511 for campfire restrictions in the Mad Lakes area. There are some other special sites, such as group camps, summer homes under permit and National Forest land in the northern portion of the Wenatchee River Ranger District (Lake Wenatchee area) where campfires are still allowed. Please visit or call the Wenatchee River Ranger Station at 509-548-2550 for information on these sites. In the Alpine Lakes Wilderness campfires are not permitted above 5,000 feet elevation or within a half mile of most lakes.
Campfire restrictions are in effect for national forest lands in Kittitas and Yakima Counties. On the Naches Ranger District, campfires are allowed only in designated Wilderness areas and nowhere else. Please contact the Naches Ranger District office at 509-653-1401 for more information. On the Cle Elum Ranger District, campfires are allowed only in seven designated campgrounds— Salmon La Sac, Cayuse, Cle Elum River, Kachess, Mineral Springs, Taneum, and Wish Poosh—and in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness. Campfires are prohibited in those areas of the Alpine Lakes Wilderness that are normally closed to campfires for resource purposes. For more information please contact the Cle Elum Ranger District office at 509-852-1100. There are no current campfire restrictions implemented for national forest lands in Okanogan County.
______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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Woodcutters need to be aware of the current Industrial Fire Precaution Level (IFPL) before cutting firewood from the national forest. Changing weather conditions and increased fire danger have prompted an adjustment in woodcutting regulations. The IFPL for Zones 675 and 680 is level 2. What this means is that woodcutters must turn off their chainsaws by 1 p.m. and stay in the area for one hour to watch for possible fire starts.
OFFICE ADDRESSES and PHONE NUMBERS: Chelan Ranger District, 428 W. Woodin Ave., Chelan, WA 98816; 509-682-4900 Cle Elum Ranger District, 803 W. 2nd Street, Cle Elum, WA 98922; 509-852-1100 Entiat Ranger District, physical address 2108 Entiat Way, (mailing address P.O. Box 476), Entiat, WA 98822; 509-784-4700 Methow Valley Ranger District, 24 West Chewuch Road, Winthrop, WA 98862; 509-996-4000 Naches Ranger District, 10237 Hwy. 12, Naches, WA 98937; 509-653-1401 Okanogan Valley Office, 1240 South Second Ave., Okanogan, WA 98840; 509-826-3275 Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest Headquarters office, 215 Melody Lane, Wenatchee, WA 98801; 509-664-9200 Tonasket Ranger District, 1 W. Winesap, Tonasket, WA 98855; 509-486-2186 Wenatchee River Ranger District, 600 Sherbourne, Leavenworth, WA 98826; 509-548-2550
WOODCUTTING INFORMATION: The Industrial Fire Precaution Level (IFPL) for Zones 675 and 680 is Level II, woodcutters have to turn off their chainsaws by 1 p.m. in these zones.
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).
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, and pay special attention to your head (including your 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.
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SNAKES: Whenever encountering a wild animal, or in this case a wild reptile, it is a good idea to give them the right of way and not harass or harm them. Recreationists should be especially cautious of rattlesnakes in tall grass, rock out- crops, talus slopes, and low elevation dry site forest ecosystems.
When hiking, walk slowly and use a walking stick to probe the vegetation ahead of you, especially when hiking cross-country through thick brush. Also, walk slowly to give snakes a chance to detect you and move out of the way. Remember to watch where you place your hands and feet. If you, a family member, or a friend gets bitten by a rattlesnake, stay calm, and transport the victim to the nearest emergency medical facility.
SAFETY: If heading to the woods, it’s a good idea to be sure to let someone know where you are going, when you plan to return and what to do if you don’t return on time. Remember to let them know when you do return. Make sure your vehicle is in good working order. Dress appropriately for all weather conditions. Avoid cotton clothing and dress in layers. Stay dry, shed layers if you are sweating, add layers if you are cold. Wear sturdy waterproof boots. Stay warm, stay dry, stay safe and have fun.
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. 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. The new 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 Mountain Air Gear. Chelan area: Passes are available at the Chelan 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. Entiat area: Passes are available at Cooper’s General Store in the Entiat Valley and at the Entiat Ranger District office. August 13, 2013 Okanogan- Wenatchee National Forest Recreation Report page 4 of 28
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. o Sahaptin Outfitters, 119 East 1st Street, Cle Elum, 509-674-3938. 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 o Teanaway Outpost, 10690 Teanaway Road, Cle Elum, phone 509-674-3782. 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). 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
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.
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 4-day permit, $50 for a 30- day permit or $100 for a season permit. 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. Personal use mushroom pickers are required to make a vertical cut through the stems of the mushrooms immediately upon harvest. Mushroom gathering is prohibited in Wilderness areas.
THE 10 ESSENTIALS: Carry the 10 plus essentials when traveling in the backcountry—a map, compass, fire starter, water proof matches, extra food, extra water, extra clothing, knife, flashlight with spare batteries and bulb, first aid kit, sunglasses, cell phone, and a space blanket.
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 DYNW sales outlets located in the reception areas at each ranger district office and at the forest headquarters office! These items make great Christmas and birthday gifts.
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CHELAN RANGER DISTRICT
The office phone number is (509) 682-4900. OFFICE HOURS: The Chelan Ranger District office is located at 428 West Woodin Avenue in Chelan with office hours of 7:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday. The Chelan Ranger District office also serves as an information center for the Lake Chelan National Recreation Area. LAKE LEVEL: On August 12th, the lake level was 1,099 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 . DOCK PERMITS: Permits to use Federal docks on Lake Chelan are required May 1 through Oct. 31. Day permits are $5 and season permits are $40. Dock permits are available for sale at the Chelan Ranger District office and the forest headquarters office in Wenatchee. Permits are also available from the following vendors: Chelan: Kelly’s Hardware, Chelan Chamber of Commerce, Twenty-five Mile Creek State Park, and Lake Chelan State Park Manson: Old Mill Park and Reed’s Marine
WOODCUTTING PERMITS: Permits to cut firewood are available at the Chelan Ranger District office. The cost is $20 for a four-cord permit, and the permit is good until December 31, 2013. As the weather heats up, please understand what the current Industrial Fire Precaution Level is before cutting firewood. CAMPING: All up-lake boat-in campgrounds are open and accessible except for Graham Harbor and Moore Point. ** Graham Harbor Dock is closed for repairs until further notice ** ** Moore Point Campground is closed due to current fire activity on the Moore Point Fire** Drive to Status Fee Description Campgrounds 3.5 miles from 25-Mile State Creek Park on FS Road 8410. 7 single Snowberry $10/night/vehicle Open sites. 2 double sites. Accessible to all but the largest RV’s. Water, Bowl (extra vehicle $8) picnic table, campfire rings, and vault toilets 14 miles from Chelan at the north end of Antilon Lake. Dispersed sites. Antilon Lake Open No fee Trailers are not advised. No water. Vault toilets. No campfire rings and no picnic tables. 11 miles from 25-Mile State Creek Park on FS Road 5900. 4 tent sites. Grouse Open No fee Trailers not advised. No water. Pit toilets, campfire rings and picnic Mountain tables. 18 miles from 25-Mile Creek State Park on FS Road 5900. Primitive Handy Open No fee campground. 1 tent site. Trailers not advised. Spring water is Springs available--must be treated. One table, one fire ring and one toilet. 16 miles from 25-Mile Creek State Park on FS Road 5900. 5 tent sites. Junior Point Open No fee Trailers not advised. No water. View point, pit toilets, campfire rings, and picnic tables. South 35 miles from Chelan. Primitive campground with 3-4 sites. Trailers Open No fee Navarre not advised. No potable water. Picnic tables, fire rings, and pit toilets. August 13, 2013 Okanogan- Wenatchee National Forest Recreation Report page 6 of 28
ROADS: Be prepared for all weather conditions when traveling on forest roads. Road Number Road Name Road Condition FS 8200 Grade Creek Soft and muddy conditions. FS 8140 Antoine Open, wind damage with down trees. FS 5900 Shady Pass Open, soft in places. FS 8410 Slide Ridge Open FS 8010 Purtteman Open, the road is soft in places. FS 8020 Cooper Mountain Open FS 8215 & 117 Spur Mitchell Creek Loop Open, the road is soft in places.
TRAVELLING THROUGH HOLDEN VILLAGE & THE RAILROAD CREEK AREA: The Holden Mine Remediation Project is affecting a number of Chelan Ranger District trails and the Holden Village bus schedule. Holden Village Bus transportation only runs on Saturdays and Sundays between Holden Village and Lucerne. The schedule coordinates with the Lady of the Lake ferry system. For trail information please call the Chelan Ranger District (509) 682-4900. HOLDEN MINE REMEDIATION: For information about Holden Mine Remediation activities, please contact the Chelan Ranger District at 509-682-4900 or visit the project website at http://www.fs.usda.gov/okawen/ . For information about Holden Village during Holden Mine Remediation activities, please visit the Holden Village’s website at www.holdenvillage.org. TRAILS: Trails listed below as maintained have been cleared of logs. However, strong winds frequently occur dropping more trees across the trails. This is especially true for trails that have been burned over since 2001. These burned over trails are identified by trail in the trail information listed below. There are several active fires currently burning and the specific closure information is also listed by trail, but fire conditions change rapidly so it is best to get the most up to date information by calling the Chelan Ranger District office at the start of your trip.
Holden Village area non-wilderness trails Holden Loop Trail #1253 Maintained. Maintained. There are frequent delays (for a few hours) due to temporary closures when blasting occurs in the 10-Mile Quarry on the east side of 10 Mile Creek. A Ten Mile Creek Trail #1241 guard is posted along the trail during blasting to let people know that is not safe to proceed until the blast is completed. It is best to plan to travel this trail either in the early morning or early evening. Maintained. There are frequent delays (for a few hours) when blasting occurs in the 10-Mile Quarry on the east side of 10 Mile Creek. Guards are posted at the fuel- Ten Mile Falls Trail #1270 break road bulletin board during blasting to let people know that is not safe to proceed until the blast is completed. It is best to plan to travel this trail either in the early morning or early evening. Maintained to 10 Mile Creek footlog. The east half of the trail (from the uphill 10 Mile Creek trail junction) is closed for the season due to blasting and quarry construction. The west half of the trail from Holden Village to the Ten Mile Creek junction is generally open making it possible to do a loop using the Ten Mile Falls Trail. Monkey Bear Falls Trail #1273 However, the west half of the Monkey Bear Trail has frequent delays (a few hours) due to temporary closures when blasting occurs in the 10-Mile Quarry on the east side of 10 Mile Creek. A guard is at the trailhead bulletin board during blasting to let people know that is not safe to proceed until the blast is completed. It is best to plan to travel this trail either in the early morning or early evening.
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Lucerne area non-wilderness trails Maintained. The Trail is maintained from Lucerne to Domke Lake Camp. The trail Domke Lake Trail #1280 between Domke Lake Camp to Stuart Camp (and Stuart Camp, itself) are CLOSED due to damage from the Domke Lake Fire. Domke Mt. Lookout Trail #1280.1 Snow free.
Glacier Peak Wilderness trails Agnes Gorge Trail #1281 Maintained. Maintained one mile to the NPS/USFS boundary and snow free after that. If heading down Ten Mile Creek Trail to Holden Village know there are temporary closures Company Creek Trail #1243 when blasting occurs in the 10-Mile Quarry on the east side of 10 Mile Creek. It is best to plan to travel this trail either in the early morning or early evening, as the weekly blasting schedule changes frequently. Copper Basin Trail #1240.22 Closed due to Holden Mine Remediation. Maintained. If heading down 10 Mile Creek trail to Holden Village know there are temporary closures when blasting occurs in the 10-Mile Quarry on the east side of 10 Devore Creek Trail #1244 Mile Creek. It is best to plan to travel this trail either early morning or early evening, as the weekly blasting schedule changes frequently. Maintained for 3 miles, primarily snow free with snow patches between Emerald Park and Milham Pass. The lower trail passes through the Domke Lake Fire burn area. Do not dilly-dally in drainages and avoid this area when windy. 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 and above Emerald Park was not burned. Hart / Lyman Lake Trail #1256 Maintained. Holden Lake Trail #1251 Maintained. Maintained for lower 3.5 miles (to Klone Creek) and snow free beyond. The trail from Wilson Creek to Holden Village is CLOSED due to Holden Mine Remediation work. This means it is not possible to use this trail to get between Holden Village and Domke Lake. Lower Railroad Creek Trail Warning: The footlog over Wilson Creek has been removed because it was no #1240 longer safe and the trail beyond is closed. When in the burn area, do not dilly-dally in drainages and avoid this area when windy. 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 Maintained. 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 glacier, just a Spider Gap snow field at best and it is relatively flat. On the Lyman Lake 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. A number of trees in and around Hemlock camp have been killed by Mountain Pine Beetle. These trees are falling into the camp area at unpredictable Pacific Crest Trail #2000 times. It is not safe to camp there. Please, camp on the north side of Sitting Bull Basin (uphill from Hemlock) or Cedar camp, which is 3 miles downstream from Hemlock. Maintained for hikers only. Small bridges and boardwalks have collapsed and are not South Fork Agnes Trail #1239 safe for stock to use and hikers should use caution. Stock need to use the Pacific Crest Trail. Suiattle/Cloudy Hiker Shortcut Snow covered.
Sawtooth Backcountry Non-Wilderness Trails Hoodoo Pass Trail #1259.31 Maintained. (hiker & horse) Prince Creek Trail #1255.2 Maintained. Caution: Part of the trail has collapsed and the remaining tread is (motor & mtn. bikes, horse, hiker) very narrow on the first switchback down from the top of Horsehead Pass. Safety Harbor Trail #1261 Maintained. The section of trail on the Chelan side of Horsehead Pass is rated (motor & mtn. bikes, horse, hiker) “Most Difficult” for motorbike travel Summer Blossom Trail #1258 Snow free. Even when this trail is maintained, the part of the trail in the burned over (hiker only) area will continue to have trees fall throughout the season. Maintained. Even though most of this trail is rated “More Difficult” the Summit Trail #1259.3 Caution: (motor & mtn. bikes, horse, hiker) section through Miner’s Basin is rutted and rocky and is actually “Most Difficult” and only recommended for expert riders. Uno Peak Trail #1260 Maintained. Even when this trail is maintained, the part of the trail in the burned over (motor & mtn. bikes, horse, hiker) area will continue to have trees fall throughout the season. August 13, 2013 Okanogan- Wenatchee National Forest Recreation Report page 8 of 28
Lake Chelan-Sawtooth wilderness trails CLOSED due to current Moore Point Fire activity. Maintained. Even though trail has been maintained, the part of the trail in the burned over area will continue to Lower Fish Creek Trail #1248 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. CLOSED due to current Moore Point Fire activity. Maintained 1.5 to Fish Creek cross and snow free beyond. Even after the trail has been maintained, the part of the North Fork Fish Creek Trail trail in the burned over area will continue to have trees fall throughout the season. #1248.1 There have been several wind storms this season and there are reports of numerous logs down on this trail. CLOSED due to current Moore Point Fire activity. Maintained. Warning: A washout has occurred at Meadow Creek and the trail is not passable by stock. Hikers are able to cross the creek by going off trail and crossing the creek closer to the lake. The Meadow Creek Shelter is visible from below the trail and is a Lakeshore Trail #1247.1702 good landmark to aim for to get back to the trail. Creeks are running high and difficult to cross at high flows, usually in the afternoons. Ticks and rattlesnakes are out. 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. N. Fork Prince Creek Trail #1254 Maintained. Oval Pass Trail #1259.13 Snow free. Maintained. The tread at the 1.75 mile point, through a small cliff, is washed out. Rock steps for hikers down and around the washout have been installed. The trail is not passable by stock. There is no bridge or footlog across Prince Creek at mile 4. Fire Advisory: Should the Moore Point Fire burn past Meadow Creek, the Prince Creek Trail up to the junction with the North Fork Prince Creek Trail will be closed Prince Creek Trail #1255 due to fire danger. Check with Chelan Ranger District office for the most up to date situation report. 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. CLOSED due to current Moore Point Fire activity. Maintained to 0.75 mile and Round Lake/Horton Butte Trail # snow free above that. 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. Maintained from the junction with Prince Creek Trail below Boiling Lake to Robinson Pass above Fish Pass basin. Summit Trail #1259 Fire Advisory: Because of Moore Point Fire activity on the Lakeshore Trail, the trails that go down to Lake Chelan are closed. Surprise Lake Trail #1249 Maintained.
25 Mile Creek & Stormy Mountain area trails (Open to motorbikes, mountain bikes, horses and hikers) Devil’s Backbone Trail #1248 Maintained. 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 to mile 7; snow free beyond. Even after the trail has been maintained, Pot Peak Trail #1266 the part of the trail in the burned over area will continue to have trees fall throughout the season. The Lower Trail - maintained for 1.5 miles, but it is washed out at the 2.1 mile point; approximately 1,000 feet of tread is completely gone. Not passable by motorbikes, mountain bikes or horses. The Upper Trail - maintained - The upper portion of the North 25 Mile Trail North Fork 25 Mile Trail #1265 can be accessed by motorbikes, mountain bikes, horses and hikers via the Lone Peak Trail (which is maintained). Starting at the intersection with Lone Peak Trail, the North 25 mile trail is maintained to 3,000 feet elevation. Beyond that elevation, the trail is snow free to 5,500 feet and snow covered above that. 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 Maintained.
North Shore area trails Echo Ridge Trails #1290 - 1297 Maintained.
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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.
CLE ELUM RANGER DISTRICT
The office phone number is (509) 852-1100. OFFICE HOURS: The ranger station is open Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. with a 45- minute closure for lunch from 12:30 to 1:15 p.m. SNOQUALMIE PASS VISITOR INFORMATION CENTER is open for the summer recreation season. Hours of operation are Thursday through Sunday, 8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. The visitor center offers books, maps, passes, permits, and current recreation and trail information for the Snoqualmie Pass area. For more information call 425-434-6111. WOODCUTTING: Permits to cut firewood are available at the Cle Elum Ranger District office. Permits are sold in half cord increments with a minimum purchase of $20 for four cords. The current Industrial Fire Precaution Level for zone 675 is Level II. Woodcutting permits are also available in Ellensburg from the Kittitas County Chamber of Commerce Visitor Center located at 609 N. Main Street. A $2 vendor fee will be charged to each permit sold at the Chamber. ROADS: Most district roads are now open to wheeled vehicles and have had winter debris removed. With the recent thunder storms, new debris may be found on some roads and mud slides and erosion may have occurred. Please report any road or trail hazards to the Cle Elum Ranger Station.
Roads within the fire area on Table Mountain are now open. Please be aware that many hazards remain in the wake of last year’s fires. Use caution when traveling on all national forest roads. LOGGING TRUCK TRAFFIC: Log truck traffic can be expected on FS Road No. 9718, Cougar Gulch Road No. 9703, Stafford Creek Road No. 9737, North Fork Teanaway, and Lake Kachess Road No. 49. Please use caution when traveling these roads. CAMPFIRE BAN: Due to high fire danger, campfires are currently allowed ONLY in the following campgrounds--Salmon La Sac, Cayuse, Cle Elum River, Kachess, Mineral Springs, Taneum Campground (not Taneum Junction), and Wish Poosh--and within the Alpine Lakes Wilderness where they are normally allowed. August 13, 2013 Okanogan- Wenatchee National Forest Recreation Report page 10 of 28
CAMPING: All campgrounds on the Cle Elum Ranger District are open except Ken Wilcox Horse Camp at Haney Meadows which suffered fire damage during the 2012 Table Mountain Fire. It is not likely that this campground will be open this summer. The French Cabin Creek and Cooper Bridge dispersed camping area along the Cle Elum River is also available. There are no services in these areas so please bring drinking water, pack out your trash and properly dispose of human waste. Campfires Day Use Single Double Extra Vehicle Campground Allowed? Fee Campsite Campsite Fee Beverly No $8 $8 -- -- Cayuse Horse Camp Yes -- $20 $40 $8 Cle Elum River Yes -- $16 $32 $7 DeRoux No -- $5 -- -- Fish Lake No ------Icewater Creek No -- $16 -- $7 Kachess Yes $7 $20 $40 $8 Manastash Camp No -- $5 -- -- Mineral Springs Yes $16 -- $7 Owhi No -- $14 -- -- Red Mountain No -- $14 -- $6 Riders Camp No -- $5 -- -- Salmon La Sac Yes -- $20 $40 $8 Swauk No -- $16 $32 $7 Taneum Yes -- $16 $32 $6 Taneum Junction No -- $5 -- -- Wish Poosh Yes $7 $20 $40 $8
MOUNTAIN GOATS: Goats are once again being encountered at higher elevations in the vicinity of Ingalls Pass, Longs Pass and Robin Lake. Please do not approach them. If they approach you, back away and leave the area. It is important not to habituate them to humans; use telephoto lens for photographs and do not attempt to pet or feed the goats. Please do not approach kids (young goats) as the adults will likely become aggressive to protect their young (think of how you would respond if a stranger put their hands on your child). Goats are attracted to salt. Please do not urinate within 50 feet of any trail or campsite as goats are attracted to this. By keeping any attractions well away from trails, hopefully the goats will stay away from the trails also. TRAILS: Nearly all trails in the Teanaway, Taneum, Manastash, Table Mountain, and Cle Elum Valley have been maintained. Trails which have been maintained in the Alpine Lakes wilderness are Waptus Lake, Pete Lake, Waptus Pass/Quick Creek, Tired Creek, Spade Lake, Deception Pass only to Hyas Lake, and Cathedral Pass. The section of the Cathedral/Deception Pass Loop between the passes has not been maintained. The Pacific Crest Trail has been maintained only between Spectacle Lake and the vicinity or Escondido Tarns, and from Shovel Creek to Deep Lake. The Waptus Lakeshore trail has also been maintained. Trail work is ongoing within the Alpine Lakes Wilderness. Volunteers have played a significant role in trail maintenance this year on the Cle Elum Ranger District. A special THANK YOU to all who have volunteered their time to the Cle Elum Ranger District Trail System. August 13, 2013 Okanogan- Wenatchee National Forest Recreation Report page 11 of 28
CABIN RENTALS: The Cle Elum Ranger District offers one cabin for public rental. For more information or to make reservations, contact Reserve USA at 1-877-444-6777 or online at www.reserveusa.com . 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.
The Table Mountain A-Frame was destroyed in the Table Mountain Fire in September 2012. Visit http://okanoganwenatcheenf.wordpress.com/table-mountain-cabin/ which has been designed to commemorate this popular cabin.
ENTIAT RANGER DISTRICT
The office phone number is (509) 784-4700. OFFICE HOURS: 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. CAMPGROUNDS: Campground fees range from $5-$12 per vehicle per night. All of the campgrounds are available on a first come, first served basis. Campground Location Elevation Number of Sites Current Status Name 14 miles from Highway 97A 6 campsites and Open with water, vault toilets Pine Flats 1,600 feet on Mad River Road 1 Group Site and garbage service. 27 miles from Highway 97A Open with water, vault toilets Fox Creek 2,000 feet 16 campsites on Entiat River Road and garbage service 28 miles from Highway 97A Open with water, vault toilets Lake Creek 2,200 feet 18 campsites on Entiat River Road and garbage service 30 miles from Highway 97A 31 campsites and Open with water, vault toilets Silver Falls 2,400 feet on Entiat River Road 1 Group Site and garbage service. 33 miles from Highway 97A 2,500 feet Open with water, vault toilets North Fork 8 campsites on Entiat River Road and garbage service 34 miles from Highway 97A 2,900 feet Spruce Grove 2 campsites Open with vault toilets on Entiat River Road Cottonwood CLOSED Cottonwood 38 miles from Highway 97A 3,100 feet Available by reservation at www.recreation.gov or 1- Cabin on Entiat River Road 877-444-6777
ROADS: Please tread lightly on Forest Service roads. All roads on the Entiat District are now snow free. UPPER MAD RIVER SEASONAL TRAIL CLOSURE LIFTED: The Upper Mad River Seasonal Closure has been fully lifted. The closure will be re-instated once fall wet weather arrives. TRAILS: Snow has melted off most trails only the highest passes, ridgelines, and lakes still have persistent snow patches, which should last a couple more weeks. August 13, 2013 Okanogan- Wenatchee National Forest Recreation Report page 12 of 28
Please be aware that river and creek fords are running high and may be impassable. 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, the trail is still snow covered. #1265 North 25 Mile Creek Maintained. #1265 Pot Peak Maintained. #1400 Entiat River Maintained to Myrtle Lake and to Emerald Park junction. #1403 Hi Yu Not maintained. #1404 Cow Creek Meadows Maintained. #1405 Ice Creek Maintained. #1405.1 Ice Lakes Maintained #1406 Mad Lake Maintained. #1408 Garland Peak Not maintained. #1409 Mad River (Lower) Maintained. #1409.1 Mad River (Upper) Maintained. 1409.2 Pond Camp Maintained. Maintained, the lower section is not recommended for #1413 Billy Ridge motorcycles. #1415 Tyee Ridge Maintained. #1416 Billy Creek Maintained. #1417 Hunter Maintained. #1418 Cougar Ridge Maintained #1419 Jimmy Creek Not maintained. #1421 Lost Lake Maintained. #1423 South Tommy Maintained. #1424 Middle Tommy Maintained. #1425 North Tommy Maintained. #1426 Blue Creek Maintained. #1427 Klone Peak View Point Maintained #1429 Shetipo Maintained #1430 Larch Lakes Maintained #1431 Cool Creek Maintained #1432 45 Mile Drive Not maintained #1433 Pyramid Mountain Maintained. #1434 Duncan Hill Maintained. #1435 Anthem Creek Maintained. #1436 Fern Lake Not maintained #1437 North Fork Entiat River Maintained. #1438 Pugh Ridge Not maintained. #1439 Pyramid Creek Maintained #1440 Butte Creek Not maintained. #1441 Pyramid View Point Maintained Silver Falls National #1442 Maintained Recreation Trails #1443 Lake Creek Maintained. #1443 Angle Peak Maintained #1445 4 Mile Ridge Maintained #1448 Devils Backbone Maintained #1453 Pomas Creek Maintained #1462 Silver Falls Interpretive Trail Temporarily Closed #1404A Myrtle Lake Maintained #1419A Cougar Mtn. Viewpoint Maintained. #1434A Duncan Hill Viewpoint Maintained.
August 13, 2013 Okanogan- Wenatchee National Forest Recreation Report page 13 of 28
METHOW VALLEY RANGER DISTRICT
The office phone number is (509) 996-4003. OFFICE HOURS: Open Monday through Friday from 7:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. WEATHER: A local weather forecast is available at http://go.usa.gov/f4y . WOODCUTTING: 2013 firewood permits are available at the Methow Valley Ranger District office, Hank’s Harvest Foods, Pardners Mini-Mart and Twisp Chevron. ROADS: If the road you are interested in is not listed, we have no current information about that road.
Road Name and Number Conditions Updated Alder Creek/Look-out Mountain 1065-200 Open 7/1/13 Alder Creek 1065-225 Open 7/1/13 Finley Canyon 1590-300 Open 7/1/13 Finley Canyon 1590-370 Open 7/1/13 Bear Creek 1631-100 Open 7/1/13 Cougar Creek 1631-200 Open 7/1/13 Cougar Creek 1631-225 Open 7/1/13 The road is closed until permanent road repairs are completed Ramsey/Tripod 1631 5009-100 8/12/13 later this year. Road is currently under reconstruction. Access road No. 5009-100 is closed until permanent road Ramsey/Boulder 1631-5009-200 repairs are completed later this year. Road is currently under 8/12/13 reconstruction. Access road No. 5009-100 is closed until permanent road Ramsey 1631 5009-300 repairs are completed later this year. Road is currently under 8/12/13 reconstruction. North Cascades Highway 20 is CLOSED on SR20 between milepost 147, at the winter gate closure, to milepost 157, near State Route 20 (SR) Rainy Pass and the Chelan County line. The highway is closed 8/12/13 (West to Washington/Rainy Passes) due to several rock and mud slides. WSDOT crews are on the scene. The roadway will remain closed indefinitely due to incoming storms and multiple slides in the area. Jack Creek Hwy 20-103 Open 7/1/13 Frazer Creek Hwy 20-670 Open 7/1/13 Boulder 37 Open 7/1/13 Lower Boulder 3700-980 Open. 7/29/13 Boulder Creek to Rogers Lake 39 Open, high clearance 4-wheel-drive vehicles recommended. 7/1/13 Black Canyon 4010 Open 7/1/13 Black Canyon 4010-050 Road wash-out. 7/1/13 Black Canyon 4010-100 Open 7/1/13 South Summit 4100 Open 7/1/13 Benson Creek 4150 Open 7/1/13 Benson Creek 4150-200 Open 7/1/13 Benson Creek 4150-300 Open 7/1/13 Pole Pick 4150-500 Open 7/1/13 Pole Pick 4150-630 Open 7/1/13 Yockey 4150-260 Open 7/1/13 Yockey Creek 4150-265 Open 7/1/13 Buck Pass is passable, high clearance 4-wheel-drive vehicles North Summit 42 7/1/13 are recommended. Bear Mountain 42 Open 7/1/13 South Beaver 4225 Open 7/1/13 Volstead/Blue Buck 4225-200 Repaired and open 7/1/13 Cougar 4225-230 Open 7/1/13 Volstead 4225-400 Road is repaired and open 7/1/13
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Road Name and Number Conditions Updated Beaver Summit 4230 Open 7/11/13 Lightening Creek 4230 Open 7/11/13 Starvation Mtn. 4235 Open 7/11/13 Lightning Creek Ridge 4235-195 Open 7/11/13 Buttermilk Libby (Buttermilk portion) 43 Open 7/1/13 The washout has been repaired and the road has re-opened. Buttermilk Libby (Libby portion) 43 7/1/13 Rough road. Smith Canyon 4300-100 Open 7/1/13 Open. Road closed to trailers, and the road is not Poorman Creek 4300-300 recommended for motorhomes as it is very narrow with no turn 7/1/13 around locations. Buttermilk Butte 4300-400 Open 7/11/13 West Fork Buttermilk Trailhead 4300-500 Open 7/1/13 CLOSED – the bridge is condemned and unsafe. The road West Fork Buttermilk 4300-550 7/1/13 is damaged near the bridge from a 2011 washout. CLOSED – the bridge is condemned and unsafe. The West Fork Buttermilk 4300-560 7/1/13 access road is damaged near the bridge from a 2011 washout. Buttermilk Creek 4300-600 Conditions are unknown 7/1/13 Buttermilk Creek 4300-610 Conditions are unknown 7/1/13 Newbutter 4300-800 Open 7/1/13 South Fork Gold Creek 4330 Open 7/1/13 Rainy Creek Rd (up S. Fork Gold Creek) 4330- Open 7/1/13 100 North Fork Gold Creek 4340 Open 7/1/13 Middle Fork Gold Creek 4340-100 Open 7/1/13 Foggy Dew 4340-200 Open 7/1/13 Twisp River 44 Open 7/1/13 Lime Creek 4400-100 Open 7/1/13 Coal Rader/Thompson 4410 Open 7/1/13 Thompson Ridge 4410-100 Open 7/1/13 Thompson Ridge 4410-200 Open 7/1/13 Little Wolf Creek 4410-500 Open 7/1/13 Little Wolf Creek 4410-520 Open 7/1/13 Little Wolf Creek 4410-535 Open 7/1/13 Little Bridge Creek 4415 Open 7/1/13 Cow Creek 4415-040 Open 7/1/13 Deer Creek 4415-050 Open 7/1/13 Little Bridge Creek Saddle Open 7/1/13 4415-100 Sheep Creek 4415-175 Open 7/1/13 Cabin Creek 4415-180 Open 7/1/13 South Twisp River 4420 Open 7/1/13 West Twisp River 4430 Open 7/1/13 The road washed out in 2011 leaving debris on the road. A road closure is in place due to the road reconstruction. The War Creek Trailhead Road road is closed to all travel during reconstruction while 8/12/13 4430-100 construction equipment is working on roadway. Please park on the side of lower forest road No. 4430 and stray off of the road that is under reconstruction. Reynolds 4435 Open 7/1/13 Twisp River Road 4440 Open 7/1/13 East Chewuch 5010 Open. 8/12/13 West Chewuch 51 Open 7/1/13 Eightmile 5130 Open 7/1/13 Buck Lake 5130-100 Open 7/1/13 Buck Lake 5130-105 Open 7/1/13 Buck Lake 5130-115 Open 7/1/13 Buck Lake 5130-140 Open 7/1/13 Buck Mountain 5130-155 Open 7/1/13
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Road Name and Number Conditions Updated Buck Mountain 5130-160 Open 7/1/13 Falls Creek 5140 Open 7/1/13 Doe Mountain 5140-100 Open 7/1/13 Chewuch 5160 Open 7/1/13 Lake Creek 5160-100 Open 7/1/13 Chewuch/30-Mile 5160-250 Open 7/1/13 Cub Cr./Goat Cr. 5200 Open. CAUTION: Watch for logging trucks. 7/1/13 First Creek 5200-030 Open 7/1/13 Fifth Creek 5200-150 Open 7/1/13 Goat Creek 5200-315 Open 7/1/13 Short Creek 5200-400 Road conditions unknown. 7/1/13 Long Creek 5200-500 CLOSED – the road is washed out. 7/1/13 Ortell Creek 5220-200 Open 7/1/13 Goat Peak 5225-200 Open 7/1/13 Rendezvous Pass 5215 Open 7/1/13 Rendezvous/Fawn 5215-100 Open 7/1/13 Blackpine Basin 5225-600 Open 7/1/13 Sweetgrass Butte 5220-100 Open 7/1/13 Cutthroat 5310-400 Open 7/1/13 The road is closed to trailers, and not recommended for Hart’s Pass 5400 motorhomes. The road is very narrow with small pull-outs for 7/29/13 passing. Slate Peak 5400-600 Open 7/11/13 A mud slide blocks the road at about 4.5 miles west of Hart’s Chancellor 5400-700 8/13/13 Pass. The road is impassable. Newby Creek 9114-125 Open 7/1/13
NORTH CASCADES HIGHWAY 20 is CLOSED between milepost 147, the winter gate closure, to milepost 157, Rainy Pass and the Chelan County line. The highway is closed due to several rock and mud slides. Washington State Department of Transportation crews are on the scene. The roadway will remain closed indefinitely due to incoming storms and multiple slides in the area. Go to the http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/traffic/passes/northcascades for more information. Washington Pass Overlook is open. A Northwest Forest Pass is NOT required at this location. CAMPGROUNDS: All campgrounds are on a first come, first serve basis. At most campgrounds, campers need to bring drinking water and pack out their trash. Name Location Current Status HIGHWAY 20 AREA CAMPGROUNDS Great views of Goat Wall. Town of Mazama is nearby. Campsites on north and south Open.
Early Winters sides of Highway 20. Maximum length is 32 feet. Water is on. Stream and good hiking opportunities nearby. Units combinable to accommodate Open.
Klipchuck groups. Rattlesnakes are occasionally seen in the area. Maximum length of campsites Water is on. is 34 feet. Near Cutthroat Lake trailhead. Timbered area. There is a short hiking trail from the Open.
Lone Fir campground. Good overnight spot for bicyclists. The next campground westbound is Water is on. located at Ross Lake. Some sites handle up to 36-foot-long vehicles. LOST RIVER - HART'S PASS AREA CAMPGROUNDS Access to Robinson Creek, W. Fork Methow and Lost River/Monument Creek trails. Open
Ballard Maximum length of sites is 28 feet. No drinking water Access to Robinson Creek, W. Fork Methow and Lost River/Monument Creek trails. Open
River Bend Maximum length of sites is 28 feet. No drinking water
Hart's Pass Open Open. No water.
Meadows Open Open. No water August 13, 2013 Okanogan- Wenatchee National Forest Recreation Report page 16 of 28
8 MILE AREA CAMPGROUNDS Small, quiet campground. Boat landing, adequate for small crafts. Successful fishing Open
Buck Lake early in the year. Lake stocked. Mountain biking opportunities. Maximum length of No drinking water sites is 25 feet. Open.
Flat Easy access for trailers. Maximum length of sites is 36 feet. Water is on. Near a beaver pond. Small campground good for small group camping. Maximum Open
Nice length of sites is 36 feet. No drinking water Ruffed Open Small campground good for small group camping. Maximum length of sites is 35 feet.
Grouse No drinking water Small quaint camp located along Eightmile Creek and gravel road No. 5130. Named Open
Honeymoon after honeymoon spot of past forest ranger and wife. Maximum length of sites is 22 No drinking water feet.
CHEWUCH AREA CAMPGROUNDS
Swimming opportunities in summer. 1/4 mile hike to scenic falls on Falls Creek. Open.
Falls Creek Maximum length of sites is 18 feet. No drinking water Small, remote campground surrounded by Ponderosa Pine. Walking and bicycling Open.
Chewuch opportunities. Maximum length of some sites is 35 feet. Water is on. Hiking and driving opportunities nearby. Some sites maximum length of sites is 16 Open.
Camp 4 feet. Trailers not recommended. No drinking water
TWISP RIVER AREA CAMPGROUNDS
Trailheads nearby. Small campground located by the Twisp River. Enjoy hiking and Open
War Creek bicycling. Rattlesnakes occasionally seen near area. Maximum length of sites is 25 Water is on feet. Small quiet campground located by the Twisp River. Enjoy hiking and bicycling. Open
Mystery Maximum length of sites is 30 feet. No drinking water Community kitchen, access to Twisp River Trail, other trailheads nearby. Good group Open
Poplar Flat campground and picnic area for up to 12 people. Wildlife viewing opportunities. Water is on Maximum length of sites is 30 feet. Located by the Twisp River. Access to trailheads for day hikes. Enjoy bicycling and Open
South Creek scenic drives. Maximum length of sites is 30 feet. Drinking water available Quaint, quiet campground at the end of Twisp River Road located by the Twisp River. Open
Road's End Trailhead is nearby. Maximum length of sites is 16 feet. No drinking water Black Pine Great views. Boat launch, fishing, two floating docks. Interpretive accessible trail. Open
Lake Wildlife viewing. Picnic area for up to 12 people. Maximum length of sites is 30 feet. Water is on Access to nearby trails. Loading ramp, hitch rails and feed stations. Campground is Open Twisp River intended for stock users. Maximum length of sites is 30 feet. This camp is maintained Drinking water
Horse Camp by the Methow Valley Chapter of the Backcountry Horsemen of Washington. LOUP LOUP AREA CAMPGROUNDS Open.
JR Good place for rest and relaxation. Maximum length of sites is 25 feet. Water is on. Good location for large groups. Beautiful Western Larch trees. Access to mountain Open
Loup Loup bike trails, scenic drives. Maximum length of sites is 36 feet. No drinking water GOLD CREEK AREA CAMPGROUNDS Hiking, mountain biking. Access to motorbike use area. Rattlesnakes occasionally Open
Foggy Dew seen in area. Maximum length of sites is 25 feet. No drinking water
TRAILS: Go to www.fs.usda.gov/okawen/conditions for frequent updates on trail conditions. WARNING: On July 20th there were vehicles break-ins along the North Cascade Scenic Highway 20 trailheads. Don't leave any valuables in vehicles.
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Trail Name and Number Current Status Date Andrews Creek #504 The trail has been cleared of down trees and is passable for stock. 7/11/13 Bear Mountain #442 Open, trail has been cleared of down trees. 7/29/13 Beaver Lake #356 Open, there are many down trees on the trail. 7/29/13 Open, trail has been cleared of down trees. Blue Lake Trail #314 WARNING: On July 20th there were vehicles break-ins along the North Cascade 7/29/13 Scenic Highway 20 trailheads. Don't leave any valuables in vehicles. Open. The trail has been cleared from Spanish Camp to Peeve Pass (and is Boundary Trail Irongate to passable to stock). The trail has not been cleared of down trees from Peeve 7/24/13 Pasayten River #533 Pass to Pasayten River and is probably impassable for stock; conditions unknown. The trail has been cleared of down trees from Boundary Creek to Dead Lake. Boundary Trail Pasayten River The trail has been cleared of most down trees from the Pacific Crest Trail to 7/29/13 #533 to Pacific Crest Trail Frosty Lake; be aware there is one down log which is passable to stock. Burch Mountain #538 Down trees have been cleared from the trail. 7/29/13 Buckskin Ridge #498 Down trees have been cleared from the trail. 7/29/13 Closed to all motorized use (however, you may encounter vehicles permitted for Cady Pass #475 7/3/13 work related mining activities). Expect to encounter many, many down trees. The trail has not been cleared for Castle Pass #749 7/3/13 6 years. Open. The trail has 6-8 down trees between the waterfalls and West Fork Cedar Creek; two are especially difficult for stock to get around. Cedar Creek Trail #476 7/29/13 WARNING: On July 20th there were vehicles break-ins along the North Cascade Scenic Highway 20 trailheads. Don't leave any valuables in vehicles. Mudslides on Hwy 20 have closed access to this trailhead. The trail is also closed due to 2011 trail wash outs. It is closed to stock from Boulder Creek to Mill Creek. The trail is closed to hikers from Mill Creek to Cedar Crossing. The Chancellor/Canyon Creek Trail trail from Chancellor to Sky Pilot Pass has not been maintained and down trees 8/12/13 #754 Trail Closures block stock. WARNING: On July 20th there were vehicles break-ins along the North Cascade Scenic Highway 20 trailheads. Don't leave any valuables in vehicles. Chewuch #510 Open. The trail has been cleared of down trees. 7/11/13 The trail from Ram Creek to Four Point Lake has not been cleared of down trees since a 2003 wildfire; many, many down trees have accumulated on the trail. The Coleman Ridge #505 7/24/13 north end of the trail, from Four Point Lake to Chewuch Trail #510, has been cleared of down trees. Copper Glance #519 Down trees have not been cleared. 7/11/13 Copper Pass #426 The trail has been cleared of down trees. Not recommended for stock. 6/17/13 Crater Creek Trail #416 Down trees have been cleared from the trail to within a half 1/2 mile of the lake. 7/11/13 Crater Mountain #746 Down trees have not been cleared from the trail. 7/11/13 Open, down trees have been cleared to Cutthroat Pass. Cutthroat Creek #400 WARNING: On July 20th there were vehicles break-ins along the North Cascade 7/11/13 Scenic Highway 20 trailheads. Don't leave any valuables in vehicles. The area was burned over in a 2003 wildfire. The trail has many, many, many Crystal Lake #517 6/21/13 trees down across it and has not been cleared for 2 years. Impassable to stock. The trail has not been maintained for many, many years, and down trees make Dean Creek Trail #456 6/21/13 the trail impassable for stock and difficult for hikers. Devils Ridge Trail #753 Down trees have not been cleared from the trail. 7/22/13 Diamond Jack #514 Down trees have not been cleared from the trail. 7/23/13 Drake Creek #502A Open, down trees have been cleared from the trail. 7/11/13 Driveway Butte Trail #481 Open. 7/11/13 The trail has been cleared of down trees to within a half 1/2 mile of Eagle Pass. Eagle Creek #410 A tree across the trail, between the last creek crossing and Eagle Pass, is very 7/23/13 difficult to get around with a horse and blocks pack stock. Eagle Lakes #416 Down trees have been cleared from the trail. 7/23/13. Early Winters Trail #522 Open. 6/27/13 Mudslides on Hwy 20 have closed access to this trailhead. There is no bridge East Creek #756 across Granite Creek making crossing difficult and impassable to stock. The trail 8/12/13 has been cleared of down trees. East Fork Buttermilk #420 Down trees have been cleared from the trail. 7/11/13 East Fork Pasayten #451 Down trees have been cleared from the trail and it is passable to stock. 7/11/13
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Road Name and Number Conditions Updated Mudslides on Hwy 20 have closed access to this trailhead. Eighteen down trees have not been cleared from the trail. Easy Pass #741 8/12/13 WARNING: On July 20th there were vehicles break-ins along the North Cascade Scenic Highway 20 trailheads. Don't leave any valuables in vehicles. Falls Creek Trail #518 Down trees have been cleared from the trail. 7/24/13 Ferguson Lake #474A Down trees have been cleared from the trail. 7/24/13 Down trees have not been cleared from the trail since a 2003 wildfire, leaving Fire Creek #561 7/11/13 many, many trees down on the trail. Impassable to stock. Foggy Dew Creek Trail Section 1 Open. Trail conditions unknown. 7/24/13 #417 Foggy Dew Creek Trail Section 2 Open. Trail conditions unknown. 7/24/13 #417A Fred's Lake Trail #474 Down trees have been cleared from the trail. 7/11/13 Goat Peak Trail #457 Down trees have been cleared from the trail. 7/24/13 Hidden Lakes #477 Down trees have been cleared to Hidden Lakes. Passable to stock. 7/11/13 Holman Creek #472A Down trees have been cleared from the trail. 7/29/13 Mudslides on Hwy 20 have closed access to this trailhead. Down trees have not been cleared from the trail. Jackita Ridge #738 8/12/13 WARNING: On July 20th there were vehicles break-ins along the North Cascade Scenic Highway 20 trailheads. Don't leave any valuables in vehicles. Larch Creek/Billy Goat Pass Down trees have been cleared from the trail. 7/24/13 #502 Down trees have been cleared from the trail. Lake Ann/Maple Pass Loop Trail WARNING: on July 20th there were vehicles break-ins along the North 7/24/13 #740 Cascade Scenic Highway 20 trailheads. Don't leave any valuables in vehicles. The trail burned over in a 2003 wildfire creating frequent windfalls. Down trees were cut out of the trail to within a quarter mile of the lake on 6/7/13. There are Lake Creek Trail #500 additional down trees on the trail in the first 3.75 miles. The remainder of the 7/3/13 trail has not been maintained beyond Black Lake since a 2003 wildfire; the trail is blocked to stock and difficult for hiking. Libby Creek #415 Down trees have not been cleared from trail. 7/11/13 Lightning Creek #425 Open, down trees have been cleared from the trail. 7/29/13 Lookout Mountain Trail #412 Open. 7/3/13 Lone Fir #535 Open. Down trees have been cleared from the trail. 7/11/13 Louis Lake #428 Open and passable for stock. Down trees have been cleared from the trail. 7/11/13 Martin Creek #429 Down trees have not been cleared from the trail. Conditions unknown. 7/23/13 Middle Fork Beaver Creek #406 Open. Down trees have been cleared from the trail. 7/29/13 The trail is open to Eureka Creek; there are 7 trees down across the trail. The Monument Creek Trail #484 bridge washed out at Eureka Creek, the trail beyond has not been cleared for 7/3/13 about 30 years; it is difficult for hikers to follow and impassable for stock. North Fork 20 Mile Trail #560 Down trees have not been cleared from trail. Trail is impassable for stock. 7/3/13 North Creek #413 The trail has been cleared of down trees. 7/11/13 The trail was cleared of down trees, but new down trees block stock before Oval Lakes #410A 7/29/13 West Oval Lake. There is a log to cross the creek in place of the unsafe bridge which was Pacific Crest Trail (PCT Bridge removed. Lots of down trees are on the trail. 7/3/13 Creek to Stehekin) #2000 WARNING: On July 20th there were vehicles break-ins along the North Cascade Scenic Highway 20 trailheads. Don't leave any valuables in vehicles. Recently, 40 trees fell across the PCT south of Brush Creek. There is a mud slide across the PCT south of Tatie Peak, approximately 2 miles south of Brown Bear Trailhead; this section of trail is impassable to stock. Pacific Crest Trail (PCT Hwy 20 The trail north of Cutthroat Pass is not cleared of down trees; this section of trail 7/23/13 to Harts Pass) #2000 is not recommended for stock. WARNING: On July 20th there were vehicles break-ins along the North Cascade Scenic Highway 20 trailheads. Don't leave any valuables in vehicles. Pacific Crest Trail (PCT Hart’s Pass to Canada) #2000. Hikers from PCT to Canada need a There are areas with some narrow sloughy side-slopes. A big boulder south of Canadian entry permit, stamped Woody Pass blocks the trail but stock can be led around it. There is about 200 7/29/13 and signed by a Canadian Border feet of alder brush near the Canadian border. Services Agent. Note there is currently no legal way to enter the US from Canada on the PCT 2000 August 13, 2013 Okanogan- Wenatchee National Forest Recreation Report page 19 of 28
Road Name and Number Conditions Updated Peepsight #525 Conditions unknown. Down trees have not been cleared from the trail. 7/3/13 Open. Rainy Lake Trail #310 WARNING: On July 20th there were vehicles break-ins along the North 7/24/13 Cascade Scenic Highway 20 trailheads. Don't leave any valuables in vehicles. Reynolds Creek #402 Down trees have not been cleared from the trail. Impassable for stock. 7/3/13 Robinson Pass #478 The trail is cleared of down trees to Boundary Trail #533. 7/11/13 Open and cleared of down trees about 2.5 miles from Middle Fork Pasayten Rock Creek #473 6/17/13 Trail. Scatter Creek #427 Down trees have been cleared from the trail. 7/11/13 Slate Creek #414 Down trees have not been cleared from the trail. 7/11/13 South Creek Trail #401 Open and cleared of down trees. 7/11/13 Stub Creek/Deception Pass Down trees have not been cleared from the trail. The trail has not been cleared 6/17/13 #458 beyond the first 2 miles for many years Sunrise Lake #417.2 Down trees have not been cleared from the trail. 7/29/13 Tatoosh Buttes #485 Cleared of down trees, passable for stock. 7/24/13 Tungsten #534 100, mostly small, down trees have not been cleared from the trail. 7/23/13 Down trees have been cleared from the trail. The trail enters North Cascade Twisp Pass Trail #432 National Park at Twisp Pass, a backcountry permit is required to camp on the 7/11/13 national park. Open. Down trees have been removed from the first 15 miles of the trail, from Twisp River Trail #440 7/3/13 Buttermilk Sno-Park to Gilbert Trailhead. Down trees have been cleared from the first 8 miles of the trail. The trail is War Creek #408 7/11/13 brushy in places. Washington Pass Overlook Open. A Northwest Forest Pass is not required at this trailhead. 7/2/13 West Fork Buttermilk #411 Down trees have been cleared from the trail and it is passable to stock. 7/11/13 Open. There are few down trees in the first 4 miles of the trail, but there are West Fork Methow Trail #480 more down trees beyond the 5 mile point. The trail was brushed out last year so 7/3/13 it is not brushy at this time. The trail has been cleared of down trees from the north side of Slate Peak. West Fork Pasayten #472 7/22/13 There is a snow-covered area to Holman Creek. Length: 7.5 miles. The trail has been cleared of down trees for 4 miles, but is Williams Creek #407 7/24/13 still impassable for stock. Length: 9 miles. Open, down trees have been cleared from the trail for 6 miles. Wolf Creek Trail #527 Caution--at about 5 miles, the trail becomes very narrow in a slide area, it is 7/23/13 very narrow for stock.
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 p.m. No permit sales between 4 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. CAMPFIRE RESTRICTIONS: Under current restrictions, campfires are prohibited everywhere on the Naches Ranger District except in the Goat Rocks, William O. Douglas and Norse Peak Wilderness areas.
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The campfire restriction prohibits wood, wood stove and charcoal briquette fires; however, the use of pressurized liquid gas stoves is an acceptable alternative in areas where campfires are prohibited. Campfires are still allowed in most Wilderness areas because those lands are generally at higher elevations where temperatures are more moderate and moisture retention is greater. Contact the Naches Ranger Station at 509-653-1401 or go to the forest web site at www.fs.usda.gov/okawen for more campfire restriction information. TRAILS: Expect to encounter tree debris and/or blown down trees, dry, wet, and muddy conditions (depending upon recent weather conditions) along with snow on the higher elevation trails. Be prepared for sudden weather changes when recreating in the national forest. Before leaving home, always leave a detailed written trip itinerary with a responsible family member or friend. Mosquitoes are out, come prepared with repellent. Lower elevation trails are snow free but snow—anywhere from a few inches to a few feet—may still be encountered in higher elevation areas. Be prepared for anything when hiking or riding in the forest. Please advise ranger district personnel of road or trail damage or impassability and other situations that may affect recreation opportunities. For trail conditions, go to the forest website at www.fs.usda.gov/detail/okawen . Thank You! Some things to remember when recreating in the national forest: Pack out what you pack in--garbage does not belong in the forest Use existing campsites Do not have campfires in meadows--campfire ring scars in meadows will not re-vegetate (always check to see if campfire restrictions are in place) Do not cut across trail switchbacks Caching or storing equipment is not allowed in the national forest Please camp 100 feet from lakes - even if you have to move an existing fire ring Do not create new trails Blow downs (trees that have fallen over) across the trails are logged out/removed by the trail crew and volunteers Creeks, streams and rivers are running high and deep--use CAUTION when crossing over water ways Be prepared for all types of weather conditions including snow at high elevations Be aware that weather conditions can change at any time Carry extra clothes, food and water, and stay on the trail If unsure of the trail location or if snow makes travel difficult, turn around and follow your foot tracks back out Bring bug repellent because there are many, many mosquitoes
Washington Trails Association web site (www.wta.org) is another excellent site for obtaining updates on current trail conditions.
August 13, 2013 Okanogan- Wenatchee National Forest Recreation Report page 21 of 28
CAMPGROUNDS: Extra Chinook Pass / State Route 410 Status Camp Fee Reservations Vehicle fee American Forks Open $12 Yes $6 Bumping Lake - Upper Open $20 Yes $10 Bumping Lake - Lower Open $18 Yes $9 Cedar Springs Open $16 Yes $8 Cottonwood Open $16 Yes $8 Cougar Flat (Closed due to flood damage) CLOSED ------Crow Creek Open $10 No, first come, first serve $5 Halfway Flat Open $10 No, first come, first serve $5 Halfway Flat - Dispersed Open $8 No, first come, first serve $8 Hell’s Crossing - East Open $14 Yes $7 Hell’s Crossing - West Open $14 Yes $7 Kaner Flat Open $12 No, first come, first serve $5 Little Naches Open $14 Yes $7 Lodgepole Open $18 Yes $9 Pleasant Valley Open $16 Yes $8 Sawmill Flat Open $18 Yes $9 Soda Springs Open $18 Yes $9
Extra White Pass / U.S. Highway 12 Status Camp Fee Reservations Vehicle fee Clear Lake / North Open $10 No, first come, first serve $8 Clear Lake / South Open $10 No, first come, first serve $5 Dog Lake Open $5 No, first come, first serve $5 Hause Creek Open $18 Yes $9 Indian Creek Open $20 Yes $10 Indian Creek Rec. Area Open $8 No, first come, first serve $8 Peninsula Open $8 No, first come, first serve $8 South Fork Bay Open $8 No, first come, first serve $8 South Fork Tieton Bake Oven Open $8 No, first come, first serve $8 Jayhawk, Minnie Meadows Open $8 No, first come, first serve $8 Tieton Pond Open $8 No, first come, first serve $8 White Pass/Leech Lake Open $8 No, first come, first serve $5 Willows Open $14 Yes $7 Windy Point Open $14 Yes $7
REMEMBER—Washington State DISCOVER Passes are NOT accepted on the national forest.
GROUP RESERVATION SITES: Reservations for these sites need to be made through the National Recreation Reservation Service. Their toll free number is 877-444-6777 or go to their web site at www.recreation.gov .
Registration Area Group Reservation Sites Daily Fee Fee American Ridge Lodge $100 $10 American River Guard Station $50 $10 Chinook Pass Indian Flat $100 $10 State Route 410 $60 Kaner Flat $10 Pine Needle $50 $10 Salmon Cove $50 $10
White Pass Clear Lake North $60 $10 U.S. Highway 12 South Fork $60 $10
August 13, 2013 Okanogan- Wenatchee National Forest Recreation Report page 22 of 28
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). Estimated construction date 2013-2014. Closed to all motorized traffic for 3 miles from the junction of Forest Road No. 1600/1605 Clover Way Road (T16N, R14E, Sec. 16) to the junction of Forest Road No. 1605-244 (T15N, R14E, Sec. 17). No. 1605 Estimated construction date 2013-2014. The first 0.3 miles are open to local residents only. Closed to the public from the junction with Rock Creek Road State Route 410 (T16N, R15E, Sec. 17) to the junction with Forest Road No. 1720 (T16N, No. 1702 R15E, Sec. 04). Estimated construction date 2013-2014. Closed to all motorized traffic for 5.9 miles from State Route 410 (T17N, R14E, Sec. 36) to the Gold Creek Road end of Forest Road No. 1703 (T17N, R14E, Sec. 24) junction with Forest Road No. 1705. No. 1703 Estimated construction date 2013-2014. Closed to all motorized traffic for 6.7 miles from the junction of Forest Road No. 1708 and Milk Creek Road State Route 410 (T17N, R14E, Sec. 09) to the junction with Forest Road 1708-590 (T17N, No. 1708 R15E, Sec. 06). Estimated construction date 2013-2014.
ROAD REPAIRS: Multiple road repairs are occurring on the Naches Ranger District restricting access in some locations. Forest managers ask visitors traveling through construction zones to please be patient and drive slowly. Road repairs will occur on Okanogan-Wenatchee N.F. roads, primarily along the Highway 410 corridor. Construction on Little Naches Road No. 1900 at mile post 2.0 will occur between July 29 and August 16. Weekday traffic on this road will be reduced to one-lane during construction. No construction will occur on the weekends. Drivers should be prepared to slow down or stop at the construction site. Deep Creek Road No. 1808 will be under construction between August 12 and August 23. This road has been closed at mile post 4.1 for approximately two years. When construction is complete, this road will re- open access to Copper City and the Deep Creek Campground and trailhead. Construction on FS Road No. 1605 at mile post 2.2 will occur between August 8 and August 30. During construction, the road will be periodically closed during the week but will remain open on weekends. The National Guard will also be completing road grading and basic repair work on portions of FS Roads No. 1914, No. 1914-787, and No. 1600 from August 10 through August 24. Roads will not be closed during grading or maintenance work; however, delays can be expected. During this same time, FS Road No. 1900-750 will be closed for hauling rock and rock pit development. The National Guard will also be utilizing the dispersed camping site at the junction of FS Road No. 1900 and Road No. 1901 to stockpile rocks. Construction is planned to occur later this summer on Milk Creek Road No. 1708, Lower River Road No. 1704, Gold Creek Road No. 1703, Rock Creek Road No. 1702, and the first 0.4 miles of Clover Springs Road No. 1600. No decision has been made regarding the Environmental Assessment for Little Rattlesnake Road No. 1501. Updates will continue to be posted at http://go.usa.gov/jQ6A .
Forest managers thank visitors for their patience and adherence of restrictions in construction zones. For more information on the exact locations of these roads, please call the Naches Ranger District office at 509-653-1401. WOODCUTTING: Naches Ranger District woodcutting season is open. The current Industrial Fire Precaution Level (IFPL) for Zone 675 is a Level II, which prohibits woodcutting after 1 p.m., and Zone 680 is at Level I which allows woodcutting all day. August 13, 2013 Okanogan- Wenatchee National Forest Recreation Report page 23 of 28
The cost for a woodcutting permit is $5 per cord with a four-cord minimum on each permit that is issued, up to a maximum of 12 cords for the season. Load tickets and permits expire at the end of the 2013 wood season. The permits and load tickets are only valid for the season and are non-refundable. Permits are issued from 8 a.m. to noon and 12:30 p.m. till 4 p.m. No permit sales after 4 p.m. PRESCRIBED BURNING: Fuels reduction treatments are planned for lower elevation areas on the Naches Ranger District, such as the Wildcat drainage, Bald Mountain and the Rattlesnake drainage. All Okanogan-Wenatchee N.F. controlled burns are weather-dependent and fire specialists will cease burning as soon as possible if objectives are not being met or weather conditions are unfavorable. Their primary concerns include favorable winds that can minimize smoke impacts to public health and the risk of fire escape. The Washington State Department of Natural Resources regulates smoke management and must approve all controlled burns on national forests within the state. The Naches Ranger District also works closely with the Yakima Regional Clean Air Agency during prescribed burns. Prescribed burns are part of the comprehensive Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest Restoration Strategy. MUSHROOM PERMITS: Naches Ranger District office will issue commercial mushroom permits and handout commercial mushroom packets to customers for fire areas located north of Naches Ranger District. Follow the rules and regulations stated on the mushroom permit and locations on the mushroom maps in the packet.
TONASKET RANGER DISTRICT
The office phone number is (509) 486-2186. OFFICE HOURS: Monday through Friday, 7:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. During non-business hours, free forest information is available in the cabinets outside the main entrance to the district office. WOODCUTTING: Woodcutting permits are available at the Tonasket and Methow Valley Ranger District offices and the Okanogan Valley office from 8 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. Monday through Friday. Vendors selling woodcutting permits include: The Junction in Tonasket Prince’s Department Store in Oroville Conconully General Store in Conconully Big R in Omak Riverside Grocery in Riverside
These permits may be used for woodcutting only on the Tonasket and Methow Valley Ranger Districts. August 13, 2013 Okanogan- Wenatchee National Forest Recreation Report page 24 of 28
ROADS: Please use caution when traveling on forest roads. Be sure to look at your free Okanogan National Forest Travel Plan Map for more information (available at Forest offices or online at http://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/stelprdb5306489.pdf). For current road conditions please call the Tonasket Ranger District at 509-486-2186.
Road Name and Number Condition Road No. 3000 Open Aeneas 30 Road No. 3000-290 and No. 285 Open Road No. 3000-530 Open Barnell Meadows 3000-100 Open Peony Creek 3010-300 Open Sweat Creek 3100 Open Frosty Creek 3100-050/200 Open Mount Annie 3100-300 Open. Be aware the roadway is rutted due to a washout. Tratnick Grade 3120 Open Gardner Creek 3125 Open North Cape LaBelle Open Cape LaBelle Open Road No. 3200 Open Bonaparte Lake to Beaver Lake 32 Road No. 3200-030 Open Road No. 3200-050 Open Road No. 3230 Open Henderson Creek/Mill Creek 3230 Road No. 3230-090 Open Road No. 3235 Open Phoebe Mountain (Burge Mtn.) 3235 Road No. 3235-020 Open Road No. 3240 Open Cumberland Mtn. 3240 Road No. 3240-020 Open Road No. 3300 Open Myers Creek 3300 Road No. 3300-040 Open Chesaw 3400 Open Summit Lake Road 3525 Open. Roads No. 3525-250 and 255 are open. Open. Only four-wheel drive or high clearance vehicles are advised on road No. Nicholson Creek 3575 3575-120. Middle Salmon - Boulder Creek 37 Open Road No. 3800 is CLOSED. The road is closed for repairs from August 5 through North Fork Salmon Creek 38 August 16, 2013. Ray Road/Muckamuck 3800-025 Passable only to high clearance vehicles. Cazadero 3800-365 Open FS Road 3810 Open Lone Frank 3820 Not advised for two-wheel drive vehicles. Open. Not recommended for two-wheel drive vehicles. High clearance vehicles Iron Gate 3900-500 advised. Buck Pass 4200 Open.
TRAILS: The following trails have been cleared of winter debris. Beth Lake Trail No. 316 4th of July Trail No. 307 Middle Fork Trail No. 387 Strawberry Trail No. 309 Cathedral Driveway No. 510A Smith Lake Trail No. 361 Big Tree Trail No. 311 Four Point Trail No. 376 Windy Creek Trail No. 362 Virginia Lily Trail No. 322 Granite Mountain Trail No. 355 Tiffany Lake Trail No. 373 Bottle Spring Trail No. 398 Muckamuck Trail No. 346 Bernhardt Mine Trail No. 367 Golden Stairway Trail No. 354 Mutton Ridge Trail No. 365 Clackamas Trail Boundary Trail No. 533 Shrew Creek Trail No. 321 Clutch Creek Trail No. 343 Albert Camp Trail No. 375 Pipsissewa Trail No. 383 Deer Park Trail No. 341 Antione Trail No. 304 Clark Ridge Trail No. 363 Honeymoon Pass Trail No. 372 Bonaparte Trail No. 306 Freezeout Ridge Trail No. 345 Long Draw Trail No. 340 Cabin Trail No. 303 Fir Mountain Trail No. 320 Schalow Trail No. 361 Cathedral Trail No. 510.1 Sugarloaf Trail No. 384
August 13, 2013 Okanogan- Wenatchee National Forest Recreation Report page 25 of 28
Trailhead registration and Northwest Forest Passes are required at Long Swamp, Fourteen Mile, Irongate, and Chewuch trailheads. Day and annual passes are available at ranger district offices or online at http://www.discovernw.org/. Senior passes and Interagency passes are also honored at trailheads and are available for purchase at the ranger station. CAMPGROUNDS: All campgrounds are now open. Water systems have been turned on and garbage service is available. The following fees are in effect for campgrounds on the Tonasket Ranger District. Open campgrounds and current fees: Bonaparte Lake $12 per day and $5 for each additional vehicle Lost Lake $12 per day and $5 for each additional vehicle Beth Lake $ 8 per day and $5 for each additional vehicle Beaver Lake $ 8 per day and $5 for each additional vehicle Sugarloaf $ 8 per day and $5 for each additional vehicle Cottonwood $ 8 per day and $5 for each additional vehicle Oriole $ 8 per day and $5 for each additional vehicle Kerr $ 8 per day and $5 for each additional vehicle Salmon Meadows $ 8 per day and $5 for each additional vehicle Lyman Lake No fee Crawfish Lake No fee Tiffany Springs No fee Long Swamp Northwest Forest Pass required
The group site at Lost Lake Campground is available by reservation only. This site is generally booked far in advance, so make reservations early. Please go online to www.recreation.gov or call the National Recreation Reservation Service at 1-877-444-6777 to make reservations.
WENATCHEE RIVER RANGER DISTRICT
The office phone number is (509) 548-2550. SUMMER OFFICE HOURS: 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Saturday. The newly remodeled front office at the Leavenworth Ranger Station is now open. However, public restrooms are no longer available. The Lake Wenatchee Ranger Station is not open for visitor services. DEVILS GULCH TRAIL WASHOUT: A segment of Devils Gulch Trail washed out due to a flash flood on June 29. Forest officials are assessing damages. Please do not use this trail. Contact the Wenatchee River Ranger District for more information. TRONSEN CREEK WASHOUTS: Debris flows also occurred in the Tronsen Creek area. There is mud on the road in places and debris along the creek. August 13, 2013 Okanogan- Wenatchee National Forest Recreation Report page 26 of 28
GRANITE FIRE AREA & TRAIL CLOSURE: There is a seven square mile area closure due to the 120+ acre Granite Fire in the Alpine Lake Wilderness. Trail closures include Klonaqua Lake Trail No. 1563 and French Creek Trail No. 1595 from its intersection with Snowall Creek Trail No. 1560 and its intersection with Paddy-Go-Easy Trail. Please go to inciweb.org WINTER STORM DEBRIS: A severe snow/ice storm occurred in the Lake Wenatchee/Plain area just before Christmas 2012. Numerous trees are still down across some trails and forest roads that are often utilized for recreation. Many hazards still exist, so please use caution. ROADS: Please check the district website for information on current road conditions. Chiwawa Road No. 6200 is open to end of the road. On August 14 and 15, the road will be closed and not passable due to replacement of Chikamin Bridge. Campgrounds affected by the bridge replacement project include Finner Creek, Riverbend, Chiwawa Horse Camp, Schaefer Creek, Atkinson Flats, Nineteen Mile, Alpine Meadows, Phelps Creek and Phelps Creek Equestrian Camp. White River Road No. 6400 is open to the end of the road. Little Wenatchee Road No. 6500 is closed at the forest boundary due to removal of winter damaged trees. Due to this closure, Soda Springs, Lake Creek and Rainy Creek campgrounds are closed. Smithbrook/Rainy Creek Road No. 6700 is open from Stevens Pass to the junction of Road No. 6701 to Heather Lake and Top Lake Trailhead. Mission Creek Road No. 7100 is closed due to flood damage from the junction of Number Two Canyon Road No. 7101 to the junction with Beehive Road No. 9712. The road is unsafe for travel. o A new gate has been installed above the junction of Mission Creek Road No. 7104 and Sand Creek Road No. 7104 which closes the Mission Creek Road to motorized 4-wheeled traffic. This closure only affects the portion of the road located on the national forest. The road remains open to motorcycles, mountain bikes, stock animals, and hikers. The closure is necessary to maintain the newly constructed drainage dips while they are still soft from construction and rain, and to prevent additional road damage. . No. 2 Canyon Road No. 7101 to Mission Creek Road No. 7100 is open. Tip Top Road No. 7202 is impassable one mile from the junction of Camas Creek Road No. 7200 due to road damage. Tip Top Road 7201 is open. Scotty Creek Road No. 7324 is now open. Walker Canyon Road No. 7510 is closed to wheeled motor vehicles due to a mudslide in Clark Canyon. Eightmile Road No. 7601 is open. Van Creek Road No. 7520 is open. Liberty Beehive Road No. 9712 is open to Devil’s Gulch Trailhead. High clearance vehicles recommended. Beehive Road No. 9712 is open. Icicle Creek Road is open all the way to Icicle Creek Trailhead at the end of the road.
TRAILS: Snow has melted off all district trails. Some snow patches still remain at 7,000 feet elevation or higher. Expect little or no water sources on ridge top trails. Most district trails have been maintained; for specific trail information please contact Wenatchee River Ranger District office at 509-548-2550. Icicle Gorge Trail is mostly shaded and a beautiful hike this time of year. Eightmile Lake Trail is open, use caution if windy conditions exist. Little Wenatchee Trailhead is not accessible at this time due to a road closure. Heather Lake and Top Lake trailheads can be reached via Highway 2 and the Smithbrook Road No. 6700.
August 13, 2013 Okanogan- Wenatchee National Forest Recreation Report page 27 of 28
CAMPGROUNDS: All campgrounds are available on a first come, first serve basis, with the exception of the group sites where reservations are required.
Area Campground Name Fee Status as of August 7, 2013 $19 per night 1st vehicle Eightmile $10 extra vehicle $16 per night 1st vehicle Bridge Creek $ 9 extra vehicle $19 per night 1st vehicle Lower Johnny Creek $10 extra vehicle $16 per night 1st vehicle Upper Johnny Creek $ 9 extra vehicle Icicle Creek OPEN with fees & services. $15 per night 1st vehicle Ida Creek $ 9 extra vehicle Chatter Creek, $15 per night 1st vehicle $ 9 extra vehicle $15 per night 1st vehicle Rock Island, $ 9 extra vehicle $15 per night 1st vehicle Black Pine $ 8 extra vehicle $20 per night 1st vehicle Highway 2 Tumwater OPEN with fees & services. $11 extra vehicle $20 per night 1st vehicle Nason Creek OPEN with fees & services. Lake $11 extra vehicle Wenatchee $15 per night 1st vehicle OPEN with fees & services. Glacier View $ 9 extra vehicle $5 boat launch fee--small boats only Napeequa Crossing, White River Grasshopper Meadows, Open with no fee Bring drinking water, toilet paper and pack out garbage. White River Falls $12 per night 1st vehicle Goose Creek OPEN with fees & services. $ 8 extra vehicle
Meadow Creek Open with no fee Bring drinking water, toilet paper and pack out garbage. $12 per night 1st vehicle Finner Creek OPEN with fees & services. $ 8 extra vehicle $12 per night 1st vehicle OPEN. Vault toilets only. Riverbend $ 8 extra vehicle Bring drinking water and pack out garbage. $12 per night 1st vehicle OPEN. Vault toilets only. Rock Creek $ 8 extra vehicle Bring drinking water and pack out garbage. $12 per night 1st vehicle OPEN. Vault toilets and water, no garbage service so Chiwawa Horse Camp Chiwawa $ 8 extra vehicle please pack out all garbage River $12 per night 1st vehicle Schaefer Creek $ 8 extra vehicle $12 per night 1st vehicle Atkinson Flats $ 8 extra vehicle $12 per night 1st vehicle OPEN 19-Mile $ 8 extra vehicle Vault toilets only. $12 per night 1st vehicle Bring drinking water and pack out garbage. Alpine Meadows $ 8 extra vehicle $12 per night 1st vehicle Phelps Creek $ 8 extra vehicle Phelps Creek Equestrian $12 per night 1st vehicle Camp $ 8 extra vehicle Little Soda Springs, Wenatchee Lake Creek, CLOSED CLOSED due to trees across Road No. 6500 River Rainy Creek
GROUP CAMPSITES: To reserve one of the large group sites at Eightmile, Bridge Creek, Chatter Creek, Tumwater and Grouse Creek Campgrounds, please call the National Reservation line at 1-877-444-6777 or via the Internet at www.recreation.gov . Reservations may be made up to one year in advance. August 13, 2013 Okanogan- Wenatchee National Forest Recreation Report page 28 of 28
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.
Recreation 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. ENCHANTMENT PERMITS: Overnight Wilderness permits are required from June 15 to October 15 for the Enchantment Area of the Alpine Lakes Wilderness. Applications for the 2013 Enchantment Lottery were held on www.Recreation.gov from February 15 through March 2, 2013. After April 1, those not successful in the lottery can look for unreserved open dates. Cancellations do occur, so it is advised to keep checking www.recreation.gov throughout the season. Starting June 15th each year a daily lottery is held Monday through Friday at the Leavenworth Ranger Station; a drawing is done at exactly 7:45 am and any additional Enchantment permits that are still available are distributed. ENCHANTMENT PERMIT AREA CHANGES: New in 2013, permit holders must print Enchantment permits online through recreation.gov; you no longer need to pick up your permit at the ranger station. Permit holders will be able to print their permit online up to 14 days prior to their trip start date. The group leader must sign and carry their permit, along with valid photo identification, for the duration of their trip. Permit holders must be prepared to present their permit/ID to a Forest Officer upon request. Some of the other changes include: Once a Permit Reservation is made, no changes may be made to the zone for which the permit is valid. Once a Permit Reservation is made, no changes may be made to the entry date. Once a permit is printed, no changes can be made to the permit. Do not print your permit until you are certain you do not want to add group members or extend the duration of your trip. Eight days or more prior to the entry date, days may be added to the trip by changing the exit date at the rate of $5/person/day. Maximum number of days that can be reserved is 14. Eight days or more prior to the entry date, group size may be increased, up to the limit of eight total persons per group, at the rate of $5/person/day. No changes will be allowed within seven days of the trip's start date.
Complete changes to the 2013 Enchantment Permit Process can be viewed online at http://go.usa.gov/49QT , click on the link under item 1(e). ###