Sierra National Forest
Credit: USDA file photo

June 26, 2021 - Clovis, CA. – The Sierra National Forest (SNF) announces the closure extension of select recreation sites, roads, and trails. Closure Order No. 05-15-00-21-11 SNF Recreation Site, Road and Trail Closure supersedes previous Closure Order No. 05-15-00-21-09 SNF Developed Recreation and Trail Closure. For clarity and simplification we’re issuing this order to protect the public from hazards within the SNF as a result of the existing tree mortality and associated hazards due to the recent Creek Fire and Mono Wind event, the net result will be a significant amount of acreage that will be opened. This order will be in effect from June 26, 2021 – July 26, 2021

Forest personnel have been addressing and continue to clear and repair the damage to National Forest System roads, most recently opening the 9S10 road where the Lower Cow Creek Bridge was replaced.  More trails across the Forest are also now open as well as developed recreation sites, due to the hard work and effort that continues.

The following trails were listed on the previous Forest Order 05-15-00-21-07 Exhibit A and are no longer reflected on Forest Order 05-15-00-21-11 Exhibit A, they are now open to the public as of as of June 26, 2021.

High Sierra Hiking Trails:                                            Bass Lake Hiking Trails:

25E03 Billy Creek                                                            24E40 Clover Meadow

27E69 Corbett Lake                                                          24E07 Cora Spur

27E03 Devil’s Bathtub                                                      24E05 Jackass Lakes

29E11 High Sierra Pack Station                                       25E07 Pack Station

26E61 Indian Pools                                                          Bass Lake OHV Trails:

26E03 Margaret Lakes                                                      26E324 Hollywood                                                                                

27E25 Mono Hot Springs                                                  24E304 Johnson                                              

26E35 Potter Creek                                                           06S059 Shuteye 

Until on-going restoration projects are complete, several recreational sites, roads and trails will remain closed as listed in Exhibit A of the Closure Order, in order to protect the public from hazards associated with occupancy in direct proximity of dead standing trees, which could result in property damage and/or injury. Their closures will be designated with signs and/or barricades and monitored by law enforcement personnel. Seasonally designated roads and trails open to the public will be accessible in accordance with the Sierra National Forest Motor Vehicle Use Map. 

If you plan on visiting the SNF we ask that you practice, and maintain, responsible/safe recreational practices, at all-times including:

• Avoid areas with dead standing trees, look up before you choose a trail, park your car, or set your camp, always be aware of your surroundings

• Avoid large gatherings and maintain your physical distance while recreating

• Let family and friends know your plans, in the event of an emergency

• Pack out your trash and leave with everything you bring in and use 

• All services, including restrooms, may not be available, so please plan accordingly

• Recreate Responsibly!

We appreciate your cooperation in keeping our national forests safe for everyone’s use.
Source: SNF