Naches Areas: Seasonal Motorized Trail Closures Lifted
Due to consistent warm and dry conditions coupled with volunteers working diligently to clear fallen trees, seasonal motorized trail closures have been lifted on the Naches Ranger District prior to the traditional opening date of June 15.
Each spring the Naches Ranger District sets seasonal closures on motorized trails to prevent resource damage when the ground is soft and wet as snow melts.
"Closing the trails when they are most vulnerable allows us to enjoy them the rest of the year without causing resource damage," said District Ranger Kelly Lawrence. "Our volunteer partners provided tremendous help in assessing the trails early on, and cleared trails as soon as they were accessible. This is a huge contribution to getting our trails open in a timely manner."
Forest Service trails are a national resource and responsible use of the trail system by the public is key to keeping them accessible. Resource damage occurs when trails are used while they are wet and muddy.
"We can't stress how important it is for forest visitors to refrain from using the trails in the higher elevations, which are still snow covered or muddy, until they completely dry out. If you see water, mud, or snow on the trails and roads please turn around," said Recreation Supervisor Bill Zimmer.
For additional details on current conditions, call the Naches Ranger District office at 509-653-1401.