The Libby Creek trail has recently been cleared.
Contributed by Methow Valley Trails Collaborative
Recent expansions of the Sinlahekin Fire and Little Giant Fire closure areas have closed several trails for public safety, and Ptarmigan Fire closures are still in effect. Still, trail crews have continued to work in the field when AQI permits.
North Cascades Highway
As a reminder, temporary trailhead closures are in effect for seven recreation sites in the corridor this month. Closures are staggered, and sites include Rainy Pass Picnic Area, Rainy Pass North, Bridge Creek Trailhead, Washington Pass Overlook, Lone Fir Campground, Cutthroat Trailhead and road, and Klipchuk Campground. Further east, trail crews just wrapped up clearing blowdown and some deferred drainage and brushing on the Jakita Ridge-Devil’s Dome loop.
Mazama/Harts Pass
The Harts Pass road is still closed at the Monument Creek trailhead due to the Ptarmigan Fire. This closure was implemented in late July and is in effect until further notice. The public is still being asked to avoid using Goat Peak Road (Forest Service Road 5200) as heavy equipment wraps up containment work.
Winthrop/Chewuch drainage
A closure order was recently issued for the Sinlahekin fire. In the Chewuch drainage, most Forest Servie recreation sites and roads east of the East Chewuch Road are closed for public safety until further notice. Details on the closure order and a complete list can be foundat /www.fs.usda.gov/r06/okanogan-wenatchee/alerts/sinlahekin-fire-closure-methow-valley-ranger-district.
Trails that are still open in the Chewuch drainage include Copper Glance Lake, Larch Pass, Lake Creek (Black Lake) and Andrews Creek.
Twisp River drainage
No new work to report. The following trails have been completely cleared this season: Twisp Pass, North Lake, Scatter Lake, Louis Lake, West Fork of the Buttermilk, and Twisp River Trail. Given the recent wind, new trees have likely fallen since work was accomplished. Work is planned this week on the Williams Lake trail.
Lower Valley/Loup
The Methow Valley Trails Collaborative recently cleared the Libby Lake trail. Trails in the Sawtooth Backcountry have been closed due to the Little Giant Fire. Closed trails include Foggy Dew 417, Merchants Basin 417.1, Sunrise Lake 417.2, Navarre Way 414, and Pasayten Drive 405.
General reminders
Bear season is open so recreators may see hunters out on the trails. River users are reminded that we share the rivers with spawning salmon. Small rock dams can be impediments to fish trying to reach their spawning grounds, especially as the river level continues to recede. Be mindful of your impact.
