Recreation Report
Ranger District sections on this page
Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest on...
For more information on recreation and outdoor activities, visit wenatcheeoutdoors.org
Recreation Rentals of the Pacific Northwest
CURRRENT CONDITIONS
Safety Alerts, Fires, Advisories, Closures, and Restrictions
The Recreation Niche and 5-Year Program of work is now available - Recreation Facility Analysis
Where will you be able to use a motor vehicle on the National Forest?
Learn about and participate in the Travel Management process
PACK and SADDLE STOCK:
Weed-free feed requirements
SUGGESTED ITINERARY FORM TO USE WHEN VISITING THE NATIONAL FOREST: The most important piece of paper you need to fill out is your trip itinerary form. Below is an example of a form to use. Give this form to a friend or relative and check in with them upon your return.
Word Doc or PDF
February 2, 2010
Recreation Reports are printed every other week.
Please comment on the PROPOSED decrease in benefits for Golden Age/Golden Access or America the Beautiful Senior or Access Passes holders. MORE INFORMATION
SUGGESTED ITINERARY FORM TO USE WHEN VISITING THE NATIONAL FOREST: The most important piece of paper you need to fill out is your trip itinerary form. Below is an example of a form to use. Give this form to a friend or relative and check in with them upon your return.
Word Doc or PDF
More Winter Ahead?
Punxsutawney Phil, the winter weather prognosticating groundhog, saw his shadow so that means there may be six more weeks of winter. If his prediction is true, that means that there is plenty of time left to enjoy winter recreation opportunities, especially snowmobiling, in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest.
When preparing for a fun-filled snow activity, always check the avalanche forecast (phone 206-526-6677 or www.nwac.us) before leaving home.
Before heading out to the woods for a day of snowmobiling make sure that the snowmobile is in proper working order. Check to make sure that the machine is in top shape and has plenty of fuel. Know how to make emergency repairs; carry an emergency repair kit that contains spare motor parts, sparkplugs, gas, and tools for equipment repairs.
It is a good idea for novice snowmobiles to try to have an experienced snowmobile operator along to offer advice and instruction. Never snowmobile alone! It is best to travel in a group of at least three people and two snowmobiles. Always notify someone of the planned route of travel and the estimated time of return; be sure to contact them upon returning home.
It is unfortunate, but some snowmobilers drink alcoholic beverages while driving snow machines. Not only is this type of activity against the law, it endangers not only the operator but other recreationists in the area. Every winter, snowmobiling fatalities occur due to operator intoxication. Please do not drink and drive any type of mechanized vehicle, especially snowmobiles.
A good rule to remember when planning a snowmobiling trip is to check the weather forecast before leaving home. Don’t travel in a storm. Turn back if the weather turns bad. If visibility is reduced or the area is unfamiliar, follow your snowmobile tracks back out.
If snowmobiling for the first time, learn the snowmobiler’s code of ethics. These are rules that will help any snowmobiler more fully enjoy the sport.
Following are the snowmobiler’s code of ethics:
- I will be a good sportsman. I recognize that people judge all snowmobile owners by my actions.
- I will not litter trails or camping areas. I will not pollute streams or lakes.
- I will not damage living trees, shrubs, or other natural features.
- I will respect other people’s property and rights.
- I will lend a helping hand when I see someone in distress.
- I will make myself and my vehicle available to assist search and rescue parties.
- I will not interfere with or harass skiers, snowshoers, or other winter sportsmen. I will respect their rights to enjoy our recreation facilities.
- I will know and obey all federal, state, and local rules regulating the operation of snowmobiles in areas where I use my vehicle.
- I will not harass wildlife.
Always keep safety in mind and plan accordingly when participating in any outdoor activity; also, plan for emergencies that may occur. No one expects to become stranded but it can happen, so be prepared by carrying extra food and water, canned heat (to start a fire), matches and a candle, compass and map, whistle, a plastic tarp for temporary shelter, 100 feet of nylon rope, a flashlight, hatchet, a first-aid kit, and sunglasses or goggles. Always carry these items when snowmobiling day trips are planned. The old adage “better safe than sorry” definitely applies to most outdoor activities.
For more information about snowmobiling safety, survival tips, and snowmobiling routes please contact any Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest ranger district office.OTHER FOREST-RELATED INFORMATION
D.O.T. HIGHWAY INFO. & MOUNTAIN PASS REPORT LINE:
Washington State Department of Transportation (WASDOT) provides critical mountain pass reports free of charge via telephone and Internet. The report is available toll-free statewide at 1-800-695-ROAD (1-800-695-7623). Hearing impaired callers using TTD's (text tele-typewriter devices) can access it at 1-800-833-6388 and then type for extension 206-440-4040.
On the Internet the reports are available at: www.wsdot.wa.gov in the traveler information website. The Internet pass reports include video snapshots of most of the mountain passes. The report is updated at least six times a day, October 15 through April 15.
WOODCUTTING INFORMATION:
During the winter, 2010 woodcutting permits are only available for purchase and use in the Okanogan segment of the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. The 2010 firewood permits are now available for purchase at the Tonasket and Methow Valley Ranger District offices and at the Okanogan Valley Office.
SPECIAL FOREST PRODUCTS:
Permits are required for gathering forest products including firewood, mushrooms, transplants, rocks and minerals, posts and poles, floral cuttings, cones and boughs. Please contact the district office for specific information. There is a minimum charge of $20.00 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.
RECOMMENDED ITEMS TO CARRY WITH YOU IN THE WINTER:
- Jumper cables to restart engine
- Cat litter or sand for tire traction on snow and ice
- Shovel to scrape snow away from tires
- Ice scraper to clear windshield
- Warm clothes gloves, a hat, sturdy boots, warm jacket and even a change of clothes
- Blankets to keep warm while inside the vehicle
- Flashlights and extra batteries for increased visibility
- First aid kit also pack necessary medications in case you are stuck on the road
- Food pack items containing protein such as nuts and energy bars, also canned fruit and a can opener
- Water--bring enough for each person in your car and any pets
- AM/FM radio to listen to traffic reports and emergency messages
- Make sure your cell phone has a list of emergency numbers
- Fill your gas tank
- Carry baby formula and diapers if you have a small child
If you find yourself stranded, be safe and stay in your car, turn on your vehicle flashers, call for help and wait until it arrives.
ICE AND SNOW, TAKE IT SLOW! DON’T CROWD THE PLOW!
During the winter season it is best to use slower acceleration and slower speeds on icy, snow covered roads. Avoid heavy steering and braking. Allow extra time to reach your destination during inclement weather.
- Drive with your headlights on.
- Don't get overconfident with four-wheel drive. It won't help you stop any faster.
- Winter road conditions often result in longer stopping distances. Give yourself room. If you have anti-lock brakes, press the pedal down firmly and hold it. If you don't have anti-lock brakes, gently pump the brake pedal.
- Slow down when approaching intersections, off-ramps, bridges or shady spots. These all have potential to develop black ice.
- Avoid abrupt actions while steering, braking or accelerating to lessen your chance of losing control.
- Look farther ahead in traffic. Actions by other drivers will alert you to problems and give you extra reaction time.
- Trucks take longer to stop. Don't cut in front of them.
- Avoid using cruise control or overdrive.
INTERAGENCY PASS PROGRAM (America the Beautiful National Parks & Federal Recreation Lands Pass):
This new 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:
Passes are required at most national forest trailheads. 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. America the Beautiful—National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Passes will be honored at all Northwest Forest Pass sites.
Wenatchee area: Northwest Forest passes are available at Arlberg Sports Inc., Hooked on Toys, and Mountain Air Gear.
Chelan area: Passes are available at the Chelan Ranger District office.
Lake Wenatchee area: Passes are available at Cole's Corner Market (Shell station), 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, Pioneer Market in Cashmere, and Ingalls Creek Convenience Center & Lodging at 3057 US Highway 97.
Entiat area: Passes are available at Cooper’s General Store in the Entiat Valley and at the Entiat Ranger District office.
Naches area: Northwest Forest passes can be purchased at the following locations. o Naches Ranger District office, 10237 U. S. Hwy 12, Naches, WA 98937 o Slim’s Market, 9951 US Hwy 12, Naches, WA 98937 o Rimrock Grocery Store, 34090 U.S. Hwy 12, Naches, WA 98937, phone 509-672-2251 o Naches Chinook Center, 10450 U.S. Hwy 12, Naches, WA 98937, phone 509-653-2405
Cle Elum area: Northwest Forest Pass vendors include Cle Elum Ranger Station and
Sportland Mini Mart, 4402 Bullfrog Road, Cle Elum, WA. Located 1.5 miles north of the Ranger Station on Hwy 903. Their phone number is 509-649-2260.
Roslyn Cyclery, 105 N 2nd Street, Roslyn, WA, phone 509-649-2863.
Teanaway Mercantile, 10690 Teanaway Rd., phone 509-674-6957. Located near milepost 6 on Teanaway Road.
Ellensburg Chamber of Commerce, 609 N Main, Ellensburg, WA, phone 509-925-3137.
Mountain High Sports, 105 East 4th, Ellensburg, WA, phone 509-925-4626.
Morning Star Chevron, 901 W. First St., Cle Elum, WA, phone 509-674-0606.
Methow Valley area: Passes are available at the Methow Valley Ranger Station office, 24 W. Chewuch Road in Winthrop, and
Winthrop Mountain Sports, 257 Riverside Avenue, Winthrop, WA phone 509 996-2886.
Methow Cycle and Sports, 19210 Hwy 20, Winthrop, WA 98862, phone 509 996-3645.
Valley Hardware/Do-It Center Hardware, 429 E Methow Valley Hwy, Twisp, WA, 509 997-3355.
Carlton General Store, 2256 Hwy 153, Carlton, WA, phone 509 996-8764 (Day passes).
Mazama Country Inn, 15 Country Road, Mazama, WA 98833, phone 509 996-2681 (Day passes only).
CHELAN RANGER DISTRICT |
The office phone number is (509) 682-4900.
OFFICE HOURS: 7:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. The Chelan Ranger District also serves as an information center for the Lake Chelan National Recreation Area. National Park users may call us during office hours for information related to the Lake Chelan National Recreation Area.
SNOW: As of Jan. 30th , there was no new snow at Echo Ridge. All Sno Parks on the Chelan Ranger District are located at lower elevations which means the snow is melting fast. Be prepared for slushy snow conditions on some of the lower snowmobiling areas, especially during times of warmer temperatures.
CAMPING: All uplake campgrounds are open. Be aware that the lake level is low so some docks may be inaccessible. For more information on the lake level, please visit the Chelan County Public Utility District website at chelanpud.org/lake-chelan-lake-levels.cfm .
Firewood Permits: Firewood permits expired on December 31, 2009. Permits for 2010 should be available sometime in May.
ROADS: The following roads are now closed to four-wheel vehicles and open to snowmobiles:
- Grade Creek Road (FS Road No. 8200) and Upper Joe Creek Road (FS Road No. 8210) are closed beyond Antilon Lake Sno-Park.
- Washington Creek Road (FS Road No. 8021), Cooper Mountain Road (FS Road No. 8020) and Bergman Gulch are closed above Echo Valley Sno-Park.
- Slide Ridge Road (FS Road No. 8410) and Shady Pass Road (FS Road No. 5900) are closed above 25 Mile Creek Sno-Park.
- Shady Pass Road (FS Road No. 5900).
- The upper portion of the Purtteman Gulch Road (FS Road No. 8010) used for the Echo Ridge trail system is also closed to four-wheeled vehicles.
SNOW GROOMING INFORMATION: To get the latest grooming information please call (509) 687-SNOW (7669) or go online to lakechelannordic.org
TRAILS: All trails are currently snow covered. For current winter trail information, please contact the Chelan Ranger District office at 509-682-4900.
ECHO RIDGE: Excellent cross-country skiing can be found at Echo Ridge Nordic Area. Fantastic scenery may be seen from many of the trails that are groomed for classic and skate skiers, plus separate trails for snowshoers. All trails are open. For the 2009-2010 winter season, recreationists may enjoy a new warming hut, expanded trail grooming and accommodations. There is good skiing at Echo Ridge because there is a good base in place and the trails are groomed often. Grooming is always done for the weekends and holidays. The freezing level goes up and down which makes it feel like spring.
Day passes are required and available on-site at Echo Ridge Trailheads. Fees for Day Passes are $10.00 per adult, with no charge for skiers and snowshoers age 17 and under. Season passes are $70.00 and are available at the following locations.
Chelan Ranger Station, 428 W. Woodin Avenue in Chelan.
Lake Chelan Sports, 132 E. Woodin Avenue in Chelan. Open Monday – Saturday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; (509) 682-2629
Lake Chelan Chamber Commerce, 102 E. Johnson Avenue in Chelan. Open Monday- Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; (509) 682-3503
CLE ELUM RANGER DISTRICT |
The office phone number is (509) 852-1100.
OFFICE HOURS: Monday through Friday 7:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
ELLENSBURG CHAMBER OF COMMERCE office is located at 609 North Main Street in Ellensburg. Chamber of Commerce office hours are 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Saturday; their phone number is 509-925-2002. The Chamber provides Forest Service information, firewood permits, Cle Elum Ranger District Trail Guide books, Wenatchee National Forest maps, Cle Elum Ranger District maps and Northwest Forest Passes.
SNOQUALMIE PASS VISITOR INFORMATION CENTER is open. The Visitor Center is open Thursdays through Sundays from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Snowshoe walks will once again be offered at Snoqualmie Pass Visitor Center. For reservations or information please call the Snoqualmie Pass Visitor Center at 425-434-6111.
These interpretive snowshoe walks are moderately paced and generally last 90 minutes. They leave the visitor center every Saturday and Sunday at 10:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. Group size is limited to 20 individuals; children 10 and older are welcome. Snowshoes are provided and a $10 donation is accepted to cover the cost of the snowshoes and other expenses associated with the program.
MORE INFORMATION on Snowshoe Walks
SNOW: Snow conditions remain marginal to poor with this winters lack of snowfall and warm temperatures.
The Cle Elum area has been experiencing a freeze thaw cycle which has led to spring snow conditions. Snow depth at Salmon la Sac Sno-Park is less than 24 inches, at 29 Pines it is less than 18 inches. Table Mountain had escaped the freeze thaw cycle and has received new snow. This area offers the best snow conditions on the district and is accessed from the Blewett Pass Sno-Park or from Mineral Springs.
SNO-PARKS: Sno-park permits are on sale at the Cle Elum Ranger District office. Permits are required for parking at Lake Easton State Park, Cabin Creek, Crystal Springs, Price Creek Westbound, Gold Creek, Hyak, French Cabin Creek, Salmon la Sac, Taneum, Manastash, Pipe Creek, Swauk Campground, Blewett Pass and Reecer Creek Sno-Parks.
ROADS: Cle Elum Ranger District roads are now closed to wheeled vehicles and open to snowmobiles.
WINTER LOGGING is taking place in the Liberty area. Lion Gulch Road No. 9712 and Cougar Road No. 9718 are being plowed to the active harvest areas. These roads are closed to all wheeled vehicles not involved in harvest operations. A layer of snow will be left on the road to accommodate snowmobiles. The road will remain open to snowmobiles while harvest is taking place. These routes will see as many as 25 logging truck loads per day. Snowmobile operators are reminded to ride with extreme caution in these areas and expect logging truck traffic.
GROOMING: Grooming operations are ongoing on the Cle Elum Ranger District. Snow cover is minimal in most low elevation areas and conditions are reported as fair to poor. Some lower elevation routes, such as Dickey Creek, are not being groomed due to lack of snow.
Salmon la Sac Campground loops are being groomed for cross-country skiing and are in good condition. Snowshoers are also welcome in the campground loops but are asked to not walk on the tracks which have been set for skiing. To see online grooming reports and to view and print maps of groomed routes for both motorized and non-motorized winter recreation routes, visit the Washington State Parks winter recreation website at www.parks.wa.gov/winter/trails .
WINTER SAFETY: Before leaving home, 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.
CABIN RENTALS: The Cle Elum Ranger District offers public rental of two cabins.
Table Mountain A-Frame is located at 6,000 feet elevation and is south of Blewett Pass. This is a great spot for star gazing due to its high elevation and remote location. The cabin has four twin beds and room for an additional six folks on the floor. A large deck, picnic table, and fire ring add to the charm of this rustic cabin. Winter access to this cabin is by ski, snowshoe or snowmobile only. The route is 8.5 miles long and gains 2,000 feet of elevation over a groomed snowmobile route. A Washington State Sno-Park permit is required for all vehicles parked at the Blewett Pass Sno-Park. Alternate access is from the Reecer Creek Sno-Park which also requires a Sno-Park permit. The distance from Reecer Creek is 14 miles with an elevation gain of 3,400 feet.
Teanaway Guard Station is located along North Fork Teanaway Road No. 9737 north of Cle Elum. This small cabin offers a cozy spot for two people to enjoy the Teanaway Valley. The cabin has one bunk bed set that offers two twin beds; a picnic table and fire ring is available outside. . Winter access to this cabin is by ski, snowshoe or snowmobile only. The route is 2.25 miles long over a groomed snowmobile route and gains less than 200 feet in elevation. A Sno-park permit is not required for parking at the Teanaway staging area.
Amenities and number of occupants vary. For more information or to make reservations for these cabins, contact Reserve USA at 1-877-444-6777 or recreation.gov
Cle Elum Ranger District ORV information
Check out the Alpine Lakes Wilderness site for Cle Elum Ranger District
ENTIAT RANGER DISTRICT |
The office phone number is (509) 784-1511.
OFFICE HOURS: 7:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.
SNO-PARKS: The following Sno-Parks are open on the Entiat Ranger District—Tillicum Creek Sno-Park, located on the Mad River Road #5700, and Entiat Valley Sno-Park, located approximately 25 miles up the Entiat Valley.
ROADS: The Entiat Valley Road is plowed as far as the Entiat Valley Sno-Park. The road is closed to all wheeled vehicles beyond this point for public safety and to allow for winter recreation opportunities such as snowmobiling and cross-country skiing. Tillicum Road #5800 out of the Mad River Sno-Park is also closed to wheeled vehicles. Please observe posted temporary and permanent road closures on all Forest Service roads.
TRAILS: All trails are snow covered.
WINTER RECREATION: Winter conditions can be harsh and unpredictable. All winter recreationists need to be familiar with winter survival skills and know how to use winter equipment before venturing out onto National Forest lands. No matter whether you are out for an hour or an overnight trip, always bring a minimum of extra warm clothing, food and water, map and compass, flashlight, and a first aid kit. For additional safety, it is recommended to pack along a space blanket, matches, flares, folding shovel, a whistle and a cell phone or radio. Check current avalanche reports and know what conditions to look for and avoid. Continue to use “No Trace” techniques by packing out all garbage.
AVALANCHES: Updated avalanche information for Washington State may be obtained by calling (206) 526-6677 or online at www.nwac.noaa.gov
SNOWMOBILING: To obtain current information on snowmobile grooming on the Entiat and Lake Wenatchee areas, call 509-763-3103. Popular riding areas include groomed trails out of the Mad River Sno-Park which access trails around French Corral, Sugarloaf Lookout, Gold Ridge and Miners Ridge; all of these trails receive very high use during the weekends. For a less congested riding experience, trails out of the Entiat Sno-Park might be a better choice. The Entiat Sno-Park is located approximately 25 miles up the Entiat Valley at the end of the plowed road; parking is on the right. Groomed trails out of the Entiat Sno-Park provide access to Shady Pass, Big Hill and Junior Point.
Please obey posted signs and control your speed when riding on all trails. Remember that snowmobiles are not allowed on plowed roads or any roadway that is open to wheeled motor vehicles unless otherwise posted.
Practice safe snowmobiling, know current weather and avalanche conditions, know your capabilities, travel with a buddy, wear proper clothing and leave word with someone regarding your destination.
CAMPGROUNDS: Snow prohibits access to all Entiat District campgrounds.
WOODCUTTING: All woodcutting areas are inaccessible due to snow.
METHOW VALLEY RANGER DISTRICT |
The office phone number is (509) 996-4000.
OFFICE HOURS: Monday through Friday, 7:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
WEATHER: Forest visitors may want to call Methow Valley State Airport Automated Weather Observation for the latest weather forecasts; their number is 509-997-0142. A Surface Observation Map is available at www.wrh.noaa.gov/sew/newsea1.php and a local weather forecast is available at www.wrh.noaa.gov/otx
SNOW: No new snow has fallen in the Methow Valley area during the past week. Snow in our area is compacted, with recreationists continuing to enjoy winter outdoor activities. Take a look at the Winter Recreation category in this section for the latest conditions on your particular recreational interest.
WINTER SAFETY: Before leaving home, 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.
No matter what the weather, anyone venturing out should go well protected from the elements and avoid taking any chances on ice covered roads leading to popular winter recreation areas.
Make sure before you leave home that your vehicle’s battery is fully charged, your cell phone is operating and you have an emergency winter travel kit with you.
ROADS: With increasing winter weather conditions and snow levels lowering, extra caution is advised while traveling throughout the forest. Please observe posted temporary and permanent road closures on all Forest Service roads. Most district roads closed December 1st to wheeled motorized vehicle use. During the winter months, most forest roads are now groomed snowmobile routes or groomed cross-country ski routes.
Further clarification about roads, their use, and associated closures is available in the free “Access and Travel management Plan map” and at www.fs.fed.us/r6/oka/recreation/tonroads.shtml .
NORTH CASCADES HIGHWAY 20 is closed for the winter from milepost 134 near Diablo to milepost 171 at the Silver Star Gate.
Washington State Department of Transportation Pass Report Link: www.wsdot.wa.gov/traffic/passes/passinformation.aspx#NorthCascadeHwySR20Link
Washington State Department of Transportation Weather Link: www.wsdot.wa.gov/Traffic/forecast/Default.aspx?zone=WA042
WINTER LOGGING: Short delays due to logging activity are possible on the lower portion of Lower Fawn Trail and the eastern portion of Goat Creek Trail between February 1-15 (excluding weekends and holidays).
Also be advised there may be one 300-foot section of bare ground crossing during this time.
The logging is associated with a thinning project designed to reduce hazardous fuels and lessen the treat of catastrophic wildfire. Winter logging was required to prevent impacts to soil and water resources.
SNO-PARK PERMITS: Parking in a designated Sno-Park requires a Sno-Park permit. Permits and decals are available at the Methow Valley Ranger District. This permit is typically sold to snowmobilers, cross-country skiers and snowshoers. Seasonal and day permits are available. This year, Washington State Parks and Recreation is selling their non-motorized Sno-Park permits at a cost of $41.00 for an annual permit and $21.00 for a day permit.
For a list of Sno-Parks or permit vendors, check with the Washington State Department of Parks and Recreation Winter program. Their site also provides excellent maps of trails for both motorized and non-motorized areas.
To see online grooming reports and to view and print maps of groomed routes for both motorized and non-motorized winter recreation routes visit the Washington State Parks winter recreation website at www.parks.wa.gov/winter/trails . For a map with locations of Methow Valley Motorized Sno-Parks go to www.parks.wa.gov/winter/trails/?TrailType=motorized&Region=1 and for a map with locations of Methow Valley non-motorized Sno-Parks go to
www.parks.wa.gov/winter/trails/?TrailType=nonmotorized&Region=1
WINTER RECREATION:
CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING: Most cross-country ski trails in the Methow Valley have been groomed. For current cross-country ski trail grooming information go online at www.mvsta.com/winter/grooming.html . Loup Loup South Summit Road No. 41 has been groomed for Nordic skiing. For current Nordic skiing information at Loup Loup Ski Bowl check online at www.skitheloup.com/conditions .
DOWNHILL SKIING: Loup Loup Ski Bowl is open for downhill skiing on Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. For current downhill information at Loup Loup Ski Bowl check online at www.skitheloup.com/conditions .
SNOWMOBILING: For current snowmobile grooming information check online at www.methow.com/groomer or call Bev or Jerry Schultz at 509-996-2220.
SNOWSHOEING: For a listing of area snowshoe trails and location maps go online to www.mvsta.com/winter/snowshoe.html .
FIREWOOD CUTTING: The 2010 permits and Firewood Removal Guides are available at the Methow Valley Ranger District office. The following vendors also have the 2010 firewood permits available for purchase:
Twisp: Hank’s Market, Hank’s Mini Market and Twisp Chevron
Winthrop: Pardners Mini Market
CAMPGROUNDS: Snow accumulation blocks access to all district campgrounds and most roads to the campgrounds are closed to motorized wheeled vehicles and open as groomed snowmobile routes.
TRAILS: District trails are now snow covered. Most roads to the trailheads are closed to motorized wheeled vehicles and open as groomed snowmobile routes. All wilderness areas are closed to snowmobile use. Check the weather forecast before your trip.
More information on Methow Valley Ranger District:
www.fs.fed.us/r6/oka
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, 7:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Other forest information can be found on kiosk bulletin boards in front of the Naches Ranger Station.
SNOW: Snow conditions on the district have deteriorated over the past weeks. Section Three Lake, located at about 6,000 feet elevation, had 5-6 feet of snow last week; below that elevation snow conditions have deteriorated rapidly. There is about three feet of snow at the dam at Bumping Lake, 30 inches of snow at Pleasant Valley and 12-15 inches of snow at North Fork Tieton.
Groomers are finding it difficult to groom trails in many areas at lower elevations due to the lack of snow. Some trails have barely enough snow for snow machines to travel on.
WINTER LOGGING: Winter logging operations are underway in the Wildcat area off of Forest Service Road No. 1306. The road will be cleared to the junction with Road No. 1362. Users should pay particular attention to signs and truck traffic especially during mid-week.
Currently, Forest Service Road No. 1702 is open to four-wheeled traffic. Due to ongoing logging operations the Rock Creek Sno-Park has been moved to the upper Sno-Park location.
Forest Service Road No. 1701 is open to motorized vehicle use and anyone driving this road should pay attention to logging truck traffic.
MOTORIZED WINTER RECREATION: According to Forest Service Law Enforcement personnel, local businesses and groomers the best snowmobiling is in the Pinegrass area south of Rimrock and Timberwolf north of Rimrock. Other reports indicate the South Fork Tieton Road is beginning to show asphalt along the lower portions of the road.
The Little Naches has seen little improvement over the past two weeks with more snow disappearing than falling. Government Meadows still has descent snow but unless weather conditions change over the next few weeks the snow will continue to deteriorate.
Sno-Park permits are required at all designated Sno-Parks. For a list of Sno-Parks or permit vendors, check the Washington State Department of Parks and Recreation Winter program at winter@parks.wa.gov. Their site also provides excellent maps of trails for both motorized and non-motorized areas.
WINTER RECREATION: The North Fork Tieton Road is still being groomed for cross-country skiing and snowshoers. There has been little snow over the past few weeks and what snow we’ve had has disappeared. As you gain in altitude you’ll find more snow and for snowshoers it is not the best but far better than for cross-country skiing.
Bumping Lake, beyond Goose Prairie, seems to be the best area for snowshoeing. Even though there hasn’t been a lot of new snow, there is enough to provide relatively good snowshoeing opportunities. Sno-Park permits are not required to park.
Forest Service personnel have been grooming according to the schedule posted on the Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission Winter Recreation website at www.parks.wa.gov/winter. This is an excellent site for information pertaining to Sno-Parks including maps, locations, number of parking slots and other valuable material. The grooming schedule is also posted in the front foyer window of the Naches Ranger Station.
NON-MOTORIZED SNO-PARK PERMITS: Many of the Ranger District offices in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest act as vendors for Discover Your Northwest (DYNW), a nonprofit organization that promotes public lands. This year Washington State Parks and Recreation is selling their non-motorized Sno-Park permits through DYNW at a cost of $41.00 for an annual permit and $21.00 for a day permit.
WOODCUTTING: Woodcutting on the Naches Ranger District is closed until spring.
CAMPGROUNDS: A new concessionaire will be managing a number of campgrounds across the Naches Ranger District. Hoodoo Recreation will take over management of fourteen campgrounds on White Pass and Chinook Pass (U.S. Highway 12 and State Route 410). Some details are still being worked out with the concessionaire on how they will operate. To reserve a site you still need to go to www.recreation.gov or call at 1-877-444-6777.
For more information about the new concessionaire and the campgrounds, go to Hoodoo’s website at www.hoodoo.com . The website gives an excellent description of each campsite, a map of available sites, a list of new fees and opening and closing dates. There is also a link to www.recreation.gov to make reservations.
New campground fees include a County Room Tax, state sales tax, and a state Tourism Tax that are normally add-ons in other overnight areas. Room taxes go toward supporting county and state costs. Other expenses that are covered by fees include maintenance, cleaning, garbage pickup, septic pumping, insurance, payroll, property tax and administrative costs. In many previous years, the expenses per campground exceeded the fee charged. All operating costs are paid by your fees or contributions by Hoodoo.
2010 Campground fees, opening and closing dates for Hoodoo Recreation Managed Campgrounds |
||||||||
Highway |
Area |
Reservable Campground |
Fee |
Extra Vehicle Fee |
Day Use Fee |
Multi Site |
Open Date |
Close Date |
State Route 410 |
$18 |
$9 |
$5 |
5/20/2010 |
9/27/2010 |
|||
Chinook Pass |
$16 |
$8 |
$5 |
5/20/2010 |
9/27/2010 |
|||
Chinook Pass |
$14 |
$7 |
$5 |
5/20/2010 |
9/27/2010 |
|||
Bumping |
$16 |
$8 |
$5 |
5/20/2010 |
9/27/2010 |
|||
Bumping |
$14 |
$7 |
$5 |
5/20/2010 |
9/27/2010 |
|||
Bumping |
$16 |
$8 |
$5 |
5/20/2010 |
9/27/2010 |
|||
Bumping |
$18-$20 |
NA |
$5 |
$34 |
5/27/2010 |
9/27/2010 |
||
Chinook Pass |
$14 |
$8 |
$5 |
5/20/2010 |
9/27/2010 |
|||
Chinook Pass |
$18 |
$9 |
$5 |
5/20/2010 |
9/27/2010 |
|||
Chinook Pass |
$16 |
$8 |
$5 |
5/20/2010 |
9/27/2010 |
|||
U.S. Hwy 12 |
White Pass |
$14 |
$7 |
$5 |
5/20/2010 |
9/27/2010 |
||
White Pass |
$14 |
$7 |
$5 |
5/20/2010 |
9/27/2010 |
|||
White Pass |
$18 |
$9 |
$5 |
5/20/2010 |
9/27/2010 |
|||
White Pass |
$20 |
$10 |
$5 |
5/20/2010 |
9/27/2010 |
|||
The new fees indicate the fee for a single campsite which includes one vehicle, a trailer or towed vehicle. The extra vehicle fee is for any extra vehicle above what is paid for. Each single site is allowed at least two vehicles, the first is paid for in the camp fee and the second is an extra vehicle.
Some of the campgrounds operated by the concessionaire have day use picnic sites which will be charged $5.00 per vehicle.
For those making reservations for the upcoming camping season you may find a slight difference between those fees posted on Hoodoo’s web and www.recreation.gov . Until the new fees can be changed the old fees will be honored by Hoodoo.
CLEAR LAKE AND BOULDER CAVE DAY USE SITES: In the past, Clear Lake and Boulder Cave were operated by a concessionaire who collected fees for parking and maintenance of the day use areas. Beginning in spring 2010, both of these areas will be managed by Naches Ranger District personnel. The $5.00 use fee will still apply as it has in the past.
One of the reasons for this change has been the lack of personnel to manage the trail systems associated with these areas. An increase in vandalism, trash, inappropriate behavior, and the necessity to protect the declining numbers of bats in Boulder Cave have made it necessary to place various restrictions on public use in this area.
Plans are currently under way to provide an Interpreter throughout the week at Boulder Cave to provide programs associated with the geology and history of the area as well as provide a background on the need to protect the declining bat population.
Spring school tours and individual group tours can be arraigned by calling Doug Jenkins at (509) 653-1411.
TONASKET RANGER DISTRICT |
The office phone number is (509) 486-2186.
OFFICE HOURS: Office hours are Monday through Friday, 7:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. During non-business hours, free forest information is available to the public and can be found in the cabinets at the main entrance to the district office.
SNOW: No snow has fallen in the past five days; the snow is soft. Conditions are moderate for snowmobiling, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.
SNO-PARK PERMITS: Parking in a designated Sno-Park requires a Sno-Park permit. Permits and decals are available at the Tonasket Ranger District. This permit is typically sold to cross-country skiers and snowshoers. Seasonal and day permits are available. Be aware, the cost has increased for these permits. For your safety, contact the Northwest Weather and Avalanche Center at 206-526-6677 or visit the web site at www.nwac.noaa.gov for current avalanche information.
SNOWMOBILING AND SKIING: Trails for both skating and classic track skiing have been groomed at the Highlands Sno-Park. The snow conditions are great for cross-country skiing starting at the lower Antoine trail and going down Mill Creek Road. Snowmobile trails have been groomed in the Conconully area. We advise users to carry some sort of a saw with them while recreating due to the likelihood of encountering trees down across trails. For snowmobile trail grooming schedules and snow conditions in the Conconully area visit www.hamiltonfarmequip.com .
Snowmobile trails in the Bonaparte area had not been groomed as of January 20. There is currently 18 inches of snow in the Salmon Meadows and Bonaparte areas. As of last week, there was at least two feet of snow in the Tiffany’s area.
Opportunities for cross-country skiing, ski-jouring, snowmobiling, dog sledding and snowshoeing are available at a variety of locations on the Tonasket District. Please review the free Okanogan National Forest Travel Plan Map for the areas open to these uses.
WINTER RECREATION ETIQUETTE: While recreating in the National Forest please respect the rights of all winter recreationists. Keep on the right side of the trail or road when meeting others; utilize designated areas for their intended use; follow trail use signs and established ski tracks. Do not disturb wildlife and avoid areas posted for their protection. Recreationists are also asked to pack out everything that is packed in.
FIREWOOD CUTTING: As a reminder, all 2009 woodcutting permits have expired. The 2010 firewood permits are now available for purchase at the Tonasket and Methow Valley Ranger District offices and at the Okanogan Valley Office.
CAMPGROUNDS: All developed campgrounds on the Tonasket District are closed for the winter season. If you plan to camp at these closed campgrounds, please remember to bring your own drinking water and pack out all trash
GROUP CAMPSITES: To reserve the Group Site at Lost Lake Campground, please call the National Reservation line at 1-877-444-6777 or contact them via the internet at www.recreation.gov.
ROADS: Many roads are now closed to motorized travel. Please observe posted temporary and permanent road closures on all Forest Service roads. Visitors are encouraged to pick up a free Okanogan National Forest Travel Plan Map that is available at all Forest Service Offices and at www.fs.fed.us/r6/oka/map/travplan.shtml for more information.
More information on Tonasket Ranger District:
www.fs.fed.us/r6/oka
WENATCHEE RIVER RANGER DISTRICT |
The office phone number is (509) 548-2550.
LEAVENWORTH RANGER STATION: Office hours are 7:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. The office is located in Leavenworth, on Highway 2 across the street from McDonald’s.
LAKE WENATCHEE RANGER STATION: CLOSED FOR THE WINTER.
SNOW: The snow is mushy and soft, conditions are not that great.
ROADS: Contact the district office for current road conditions. Please respect the barricades and gates on closed roads. Snow accumulation will affect road closure status.
- Chiwawa River Road #6200 is closed to wheeled motor vehicles at the Fish Lake Sno-Park.
- White River Road #6400 is plowed to the end of the county road at Tall Timber Ranch.
- Little Wenatchee River Road #6500 is closed for the season.
- Mission Creek Road #7100 is closed a quarter mile beyond Sand Creek Road #7104 to the lower Devils Gulch trailhead due to flood damage.
- Number Two Canyon Road #7101 is closed for the season.
- Van Creek Road #7520 is closed to wheeled motor vehicles at the junction with Eagle Creek Road.
- Icicle Road #7600 is washed out beyond Ida Creek Campground. The road is plowed to the junction with Eightmile Road #7601.
- Eightmile Road is closed for the season.
- FS Road #7605 is closed at Doctor Creek Bridge.
- Motorized vehicle access to Chatter Creek, Rock Island and Blackpine campgrounds and trailheads beyond Ida Creek Campground is prohibited except for snowmobiles.
SNOWMOBILING: Snowmobiles are not allowed on plowed roads or any roadway that is open to wheeled motor vehicles unless otherwise posted. For snowmobile trail grooming reports on the Lake Wenatchee/Entiat Valley snowmobile trail system call (509) 763-3103 and press 5. Sno-Park Permits are required for parking at Fish Lake and Airstrip Sno-Parks. Trail maps are available at the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest website www.fs.fed.us/r6/wenatchee/recreation/winter/lakewen-entiat-snomo-map.pdf or WA State Parks web site www.parks.wa.gov/winter/trails/
SKIING / SNOWSHOEING:
Lake Wenatchee State Park offers cross-country and skate skiing trails, snowshoe routes, and a sledding hill. Grooming information is available at www.parks.wa.gov/winter/trails/?TrailType=nonmotorized. Sno-Park permits are required for parking at the Lake Wenatchee State Park, Chiwawa Loop and Kahler Glen Sno-Parks. For more information contact Washington State Parks at (509) 763-3101.
Leavenworth Winter Sports Club skileavenworth.com provides Alpine, Nordic, and skate skiing trails, snowboarding, ski jumping, snowshoe routes and a tubing park.
Stevens Pass Nordic Center stevenspass.com has groomed cross-country and skate skiing trails and snowshoe routes.
Downhill skiing and snowboarding are available at Mission Ridge missionridge.com and Stevens Pass stevenspass.com .
Winter Life Snowshoe Tours: Explore the Icicle River Trail at Leavenworth National Fish Hatchery. Join a trained naturalist to unravel the mysteries of winter. Learn to read the stories told by the tracks of weasels, deer, coyote and other local wildlife. By reservations only – group size is limited to 12 people per tour. Tours occur on Saturdays and Sundays in February from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon. For reservations, please call (509) 548-2921 Monday - Friday 9:00 - 4:00. For more information go to www.fws.gov/leavenworth/projects.html.
CAMPGROUNDS: Most district campgrounds are inaccessible to wheeled motor vehicles during the winter months or are closed for the season.
The Lake Wenatchee State Park is open year-round for camping. For summer season reservations at Washington State Parks, call (888) CAMPOUT.
GROUP CAMPSITES: To reserve one of the large group sites at Eightmile, Bridge Creek or Tumwater 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.
TRAILS: All district trails are snow covered.
ENCHANTMENT PERMITS: Overnight Wilderness permits are required from June 15 to October 15 for the Enchantment Area of the Alpine Lakes Wilderness. Enchantment permit fees are $5 per person per day.
Permit applications for 2010 should be available in January. Download a copy from the forest website www.fs.fed.us/r6/wenatchee/passes/enchantments or call the Wenatchee River Ranger District’s Leavenworth office at (509) 548-2550. A daily lottery drawing for a limited number of slots is also held at 7:45 a.m. Monday through Saturday during the permit season.
IMPORTANT NOTE: For the summer of 2010, Enchantment Area Permit applications will be accepted between February 1 and February 8. In recent years, the number of applications received for the Enchantment Permit Area has nearly doubled; because of this, we have been unable to process applications as promptly as we had in the past. In order to provide more timely service to our applicants, we are moving the application submission period to FEBRUARY 1 through FEBRUARY 8.
Please be sure to use the 2010 application form and to mail your application during this new time period. As in the past, applications mailed too early (postmarked before February 1) will be rejected. Applications received after February 8 will not be processed until after all on-time applications have been considered. No other major changes in the way permits are processed are expected for the coming year.
