________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

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).

Editor’s Note: Rec reports are published every other week. January 21, 2015

Snowshoeing opportunities abound in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. Snowshoeing

offers an easy and enjoyable way to experience the pleasure of the natural landscape during the winter

months, and it is easy to learn and lots of fun.

A trip by snowshoe may be a casual walk through the woods or a physically demanding trek to a

local summit. Also, snowshoeing is a low-impact sport that improves fitness in an enjoyable natural

setting.

If snowshoeing for the first time, don’t expect to be an expert right away. As with any new sport,

practice is necessary, so don’t be afraid to use a ski pole or walking stick when first starting out.

In areas where tracks are set for skiers, snowshoers are asked to walk adjacent to the set tracks

and not in them. Also be aware, dogs are prohibited on some groomed ski trails so find out ahead of

time whether you can take your dog with you.

Consider the following when planning a snowshoeing outing in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National

Forest.

Finding good trails: Snowshoes are most effective on fluffy snow over six inches deep. If you are staying on trails, recreational shoes will work fine. Be aware that snowshoeing is prohibited on some groomed trails. For more advanced terrain, make sure to bring maps, a compass and keep track of the time, you don’t want to have to snowshoe back to your vehicle in the dark unless you are equipped to do so!

Equipment: Snowshoes, waterproof winter boots and poles (optional) are the only equipment needed. You'll find a variety of snowshoes on the market, including children's and women's-specific models. When purchasing or renting snowshoes, take into consideration the kind of snowshoeing you'll be participating in, your height and weight, how much you will be carrying, and choose your shoe accordingly.

Drink, drink, drink: Snowshoeing is a great workout and you use a lot of fluids in the process.

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Clothing: Dress in layers so you can shed or add clothing as needed. Layers should include

thermal underwear, a second insulating layer, a vest, windproof and water repellent pants and jacket, gloves/mittens, and a hat.

Be prepared: If you are going on a guided tour or out in a controlled environment, an extra layer of clothing, water and sunscreen will probably suffice. But as a rule, whenever venturing out on the trails your daypack should contain two quarts of water, snacks, a first aid kit, pocket knife, headlamp, compass, sunscreen, extra clothing, an emergency space blanket, fire starting kit, and a guide book or map. Always be aware of local weather forecasts.

Understand where the main areas of danger may be. These include snow-covered convex slopes where the snow is under tension, lee slopes where unstable snow has accumulated, and deep, snow-filled gullies. Also, look for broken tree limbs precariously hanging in tree tops.

Leave your itinerary: Always leave an itinerary with a responsible friend stating where you will be and when you plan to return. This way someone will know to call authorities in case you get lost or injured. Make sure you check in when your get back!

For those who would rather join a group for a snowshoeing outing, guided snowshoe tours and

walks are occurring in the following locations in and around the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest:

Free Winter Life Snowshoe Tours at the Leavenworth National Fish Hatchery’s Icicle River

nature trail. A trained naturalist will teach you and your family to snowshoe, track animals and

identify winter flora. Tours are held on Fridays, Sundays and Sundays through February 22.

Snowshoe tours occur at 1 p.m. on Fridays, 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. on Saturdays, and 10 a.m. on

Sundays. Participants must be over 8 years old. Please remember to bring winter clothing and

snow boots; snowshoes are provided. Pre-registration is required (available online or by calling

509-548-2931). Visit http://www.friendsofnwhatcheries.org/event-registration/ to register.

Sponsored by Friends of Northwest Hatcheries. Tours are weather-dependent and subject to change if

conditions are not appropriate.

Mission Ridge Twilight Snowshoeing Trek occurs at 5 p.m. on Saturday, January 24. The cost is $10 and snowshoes may be rented at the rental desk for $15.

At Stevens Pass Nordic Area all snowshoers need a valid trail pass. Snowshoers must travel on designated snowshoe trails only.

The Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest offers guided snowshoe hikes in the Stevens Pass area. Call 425-434-6111 for more information or to make reservations.

Five guided snowshoe walks are being offered at Snoqualmie Pass. For more information or reservations please call the visitor center at 425-434-6111. We strongly encourage individuals to make reservations as walks fill up quickly.

An extended 5-mile walk through the Commonwealth Basin in which participants will be able to examine winter ecology, life in the snow and winter weather. These walks will take place at 9 a.m. on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.

The Photography walk offers the opportunity to capture winter on film. You will wander through the snow covered forest, past streams and ice falls while the group leader discusses light and exposure. These walks will occur at 9:30 a.m. on every other Saturday (Jan. 31, Feb. 14, Feb. 28, March 14, and March 28).

Kids in the Snow snowshoe walk introduces youngsters to the wonders of winter. Participants will learn to identify tracks, discover which animals turn white in the winter and who sleeps the winter away. These walks take place at 1 p.m. on Saturdays.

NEW THIS YEAR! The Forest Service is partnering with Northwest Avalanche Center to provide six avalanche awareness snowshoe outings. Please call the Snoqualmie Pass Visitor Info. Center at 425-434-6111 for dates and times of the avalanche education walks.

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SOME OTHER SKIING / SNOWSHOEING OPPORTUNITIES:

Leavenworth Winter Sports Club www.skileavenworth.com/ provides Alpine, Nordic, and skate skiing trails, snowboarding, ski jumping, snowshoe routes, fat bike route, and a tubing park.

Stevens Pass Nordic Center www.stevenspass.com has groomed cross-country and skate skiing trails and snowshoe routes.

Downhill skiing and snowboarding are available at Mission Ridge www.missionridge.com/ and Stevens Pass www.stevenspass.com .

Echo Ridge Nordic Ski Area http://go.usa.gov/49aV offers cross-country skiing and snowshoeing opportunities. Go to http://www.eigenvector.com/ski/Nordic_Report.html for grooming reports.

White Pass Ski Area http://skiwhitepass.com/ Nordic Center offers 18 kilometers of groomed double-tracked trails which meander through both the Wenatchee and the Gifford Pinchot National Forests.

Loup Loup Ski Area http://www.skitheloup.com/ has 23 kilometers of groomed track set Nordic trails with trailheads right out of the parking lot and a tube slide area.

OFFICE ADDRESSES and PHONE NUMBERS:

Chelan Ranger District, 428 W. Woodin Ave., Chelan, WA 98816; 509-682-4900; hours M-F 7:45 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

Cle Elum Ranger District, 803 W. 2nd Street, Cle Elum, WA 98922; 509-852-1100; hours M-F 8 a.m.-4 p.m.; closed for lunch 12:30 to 1:15 p.m.

Entiat Ranger District, physical address 2108 Entiat Way, (P.O. Box 476), Entiat, WA 98822; 509-784-4700; hours M-F 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

Methow Valley Ranger District, 24 West Chewuch Road, Winthrop, WA 98862; 509-996-4000; hours M-F 7:45 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

Naches Ranger District, 10237 Hwy. 12, Naches, WA 98937; 509-653-1401; hours 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; closed for lunch noon to 12:30 p.m.

Okanogan Valley Office, 1240 South Second Ave., Okanogan, WA 98840; 509-826-3275; hours M- F 7:30-4 p.m.; closed for lunch 11 a.m. to noon Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest Headquarters office, 215 Melody Lane, Wenatchee, WA 98801; 509-664-9200; hours M-F 7:45-4:30

Tonasket Ranger District, 1 W. Winesap, Tonasket, WA 98855; 509-486-2186; hours M-F 7:45 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

Wenatchee River Ranger District, 600 Sherbourne, Leavenworth, WA 98826; 509-548-2550; hours M-F 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

LEANING TREES & TREE LIMB HAZARDS EXIST:

On January 4, about 4-6 inches of snow followed by freezing rain fell in the Leavenworth, Lake Wenatchee, upper Entiat and Chelan, and Methow Valley areas. This resulted in ice covered trees and tree limbs, many of which crashed to the ground or are now precariously hanging from trees. Broken tree limbs and leaning trees are potential hazards to recreationists. Please be extra careful and look for these hazards when recreating in the national forest. When taking rest breaks do so away from trees if possible.

WOODCUTTING INFORMATION:

Woodcutting permits expired on December 31, 2014. Permits for 2015 are currently only available at the Tonasket Ranger District office from 8 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. (for wood cutting on that district only).

HAZARDS FOUND IN WILDFIRE AREAS:

Following are a variety of hazards to watch out for when traveling through areas burned in wildfires. Snags are not only obviously dead trees, but can also be blackened killed trees or green trees burned

through at the bottom.

Snags can fall at any time. Besides the potential for striking people or property, they can block trails or roads, including your exit even though travel was unimpeded when you entered the area.

Snags can make travel difficult if a lot of trees have fallen across the landscape.

Stump holes and root channels can still be burning and often are hidden from sight until stepped upon.

Steep slopes and loss of vegetation may cause rolling rocks and debris flows off hillsides at any time but the likelihood increases with rain and freeze-thaw events.

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Loss of vegetation increases the potential for erosion to occur with any rain event. Water runoff may

cause flooding that impacts or clogs road culverts and storm drains; sediment may move downstream affecting lands a long distance from the burned areas.

Even with minor precipitation, road culverts can become plugged with material and cause debris flows onto roads.

Recently opened areas may still have areas with smoke and fire. Fire can smolder below ground in root channels and stump holes and pop up above ground as these sources of organic matter reach the surface. If smoke is discovered, report a fire to 911.

Some things to do to be prepared:

Don’t loiter in the burned areas, travel quickly through burned areas to reach your favorite recreation sites outside of the burns

Carrying a saw or axe with you is a good idea when traveling on forest roads

Stay current on weather forecasts and avoid areas that have been severely burned

Do not try to cross an active mud or debris flow

Let someone know where you are going and when you plan to return home

For more information, please call the local national forest office or go to the forest web site at www.fs.usda.gov/okawen .

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.

This 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 Big 5.

Chelan area: Passes are available at the Chelan Ranger District office.

Entiat area: Passes are available at Cooper’s General Store in the Entiat Valley and at the Entiat Ranger

District office.

Lake Wenatchee area: Passes are available at Midway Village Grocery, Parkside Grocery and Plain

Hardware.

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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.

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 Kittitas County Chamber of Commerce Cle Elum Visitor Center, 312 W 1st, Cle Elum, 509-674-6880

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 1

st St Cle Elum, phone 509-674-4548

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). o Goat Beard Mountain Supply, 50 Lost River Road in Mazama, 509-996-2515. o Do It Center Valley Hardware, 309 Highway 20 South in Twisp, 509-997-8541. o The Outdoorsman, 170 Riverside Ave., Winthrop, 509-996-2649, (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.

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 sales outlets located in the reception areas at most ranger district offices and at the forest headquarters office!

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.

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CHELAN RANGER DISTRICT

The office phone number is (509) 682-4900.

OFFICE HOURS: The Chelan Ranger District is located at 428 West Woodin Avenue in Chelan with

office hours of 7:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday with a one hour closure for lunch from

11:30 to 12:30. The Chelan Ranger District also serves as an information center for the Lake Chelan

National Recreation Area.

ECHO RIDGE NORDIC SKI PASSES are on sale for $70 at the Chelan Ranger District office.

Day passes are available on-site for $10 per adult; there is no charge for skiers or snowshoers age 17

and under. Winter passes are required for both ski and snowshoe trail use. For current grooming

information go to the Lake Chelan Nordic Ski Club website at www.lakecheleannordic.org .

ECHO RIDGE NORDIC AREA EVENTS: At 10 a.m. on Sunday, January 25, there will be a

Snowshoe Race/Walk followed by Snowga at 11 a.m. For more information and to register for the

race/walk go to the Lake Chelan Chamber of Commerce web site at http://www.lakechelan.com/winterfest/ .

SNOW: The snow level continues to fluctuate across the district and from day to day. For snow depth

information at Lyman Lake go to the Natural Resources Conservation Service Sno-Tel information site at

http://go.usa.gov/6rk5 (select any of the Snow Depth reports from the Site Reports table).

Snowmobile grooming has been consistent on the North Shore out of Antilon Lake & Echo Valley

Sno-Parks. 25 Mile Creek area has not been as consistently groomed but will increase as weather permits.

For grooming and conditions reports visit the Washington State Parks website at http://go.usa.gov/6r8G .

LAKE LEVEL: The level of Lake Chelan is 1092.37 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 .

CAMPING: All uplake boat-in campgrounds are open with no services available. Dock permits are no

longer required; however, some docks will become inaccessible as the lake level lowers for the winter.

Also, expect icy and slippery dock surfaces. There are bear-proof boxes at Prince Creek, Moore Point and

Holden Forest Service campgrounds.

Campground Status Elevation General Info/Services

Antilon Lake Snow covered. 2,400 feet Dispersed camp sites, no services

Grouse Mountain Snow covered. 4,425 feet Dispersed camp sites, no services

Handy Springs Snow covered. 6,300 feet Primitive camping conditions

Junior Point Snow covered. 6,600 feet No services

Snowberry Bowl Snow covered. 2,000 feet No fee. Potable water has been turned off for the winter.

Windy Camp Snow covered. 5,900 feet Primitive camping conditions

South Navarre Snow covered. 6,475 feet Primitive camping conditions

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ROADS: Snow and ice are accumulating on forest roads; these roads are not plowed during the winter.

Four-wheel-drive and high vehicle clearance is always recommended for travel on forest roads. Please

carry chains and extra supplies for emergencies. Remember, there is limited turn around space available

on most forest roads. Always travel with plenty of fuel and check with district offices before heading out.

Once deep snow covers roadways, wheeled vehicles will be prohibited and only over the snow vehicles

will be allowed to travel on forest roads.

Road Name Road Number Status

Shady Pass 5900 Closed to wheeled vehicles in conjunction with snowmobile grooming.

Purtteman Road 8010 Closed to wheeled vehicles and snowmobiles at Echo Ridge in conjunction with the start of snow grooming.

Cooper Mountain 8020 Portions of Cooper Mt. road are closed to wheeled vehicles in conjunction with snowmobile grooming.

Antoine Creek 8140 Snow covered. Impassable beyond the cattle guard.

Grade Creek 8200 Closed to wheeled vehicles in conjunction with snowmobile grooming.

Joe Creek 8210 Closed to wheeled vehicles in conjunction with snowmobile grooming.

Slide Ridge 8410 Closed to wheeled vehicles in conjunction with snowmobile grooming.

TRAILS: Expect to encounter snow on all trails in the Chelan Ranger District. Be prepared for sudden

changes in weather and trail conditions. Always check current avalanche conditions prior to trekking into

the backcountry. Conditions are good on Echo Ridge Trails No. 1290-1297. All trailheads in the Echo

Ridge Nordic Ski Area are plowed and open for parking. Trail grooming is occurring.

CLE ELUM RANGER DISTRICT

The office phone number is (509) 852-1100.

OFFICE HOURS: Winter office hours are Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. with a 45-minute

closure for lunch from 12:30 to 1:15 p.m.

SNOW: New snow fell across the Cle Elum Ranger District on January 17th

only to be followed by

freezing rain and rain. Please check the SnoTel website at http://go.usa.gov/WypV for current snow depth

at Sasse Ridge and Blewett Pass. As of January 20, there was 42 inches of snow at Sasse Ridge and 16

inches at Blewett Pass.

GROOMING: Minimal snow accumulations have limited grooming operations on the Cle Elum Ranger

District. Due to unseasonably warm temperatures and low snow totals, grooming will be on hold until

temperatures decrease and significant snow fall occurs.

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SNOQUALMIE PASS VISITOR INFORMATION CENTER is open for the winter season; hours of

operation are Thursday through Sunday from 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.

NOTE: If warm, wet weather conditions continue, operation of the visitor center and snowshoe

walks could be discontinued until more favorable winter weather occurs.

SNOWSHOE INTERPRETIVE PROGRAM: The ever popular snowshoe interpretive program offered

by naturalists from the Snoqualmie Pass Visitor Information Center has begun. Five different interpreter-

led snowshoe walks are offered:

A 90-minute moderately paced walk traveling through a mile of snow covered old growth forest. This walk is designed to introduce folks to the marvels of winter and snowshoeing. These walks will take place on Saturdays and Sundays at 10 a.m., 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m., starting in January.

An extended 5-mile walk through the Commonwealth Basin in which participants will be able to examine winter ecology, life in the snow and winter weather. These walks will take place at 9 a.m. on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays starting in January

The Photography walk offers the opportunity to capture winter on film. You will wander through the snow covered forest, past streams and ice falls while the group leader discusses light and exposure. These walks will occur at 9:30 a.m. on every other Saturday beginning January 3, 2015 (Jan. 3, Jan. 17, Jan. 31, Feb. 14, Feb. 28, March 14, and March 28).

Kids in the Snow snowshoe walk introduces youngsters to the wonders of winter. Participants will learn to identify tracks, discover which animals turn white in the winter and who sleeps the winter away. These walks will take place at 1 p.m. on Saturday’s beginning on January 17, 2015.

NEW THIS YEAR! We’ll be partnering with the Northwest Avalanche Center to provide six avalanche awareness snowshoe outings. Please call the Snoqualmie Pass Visitor Info. Center for the dates and times for the avalanche education walks.

For more information call 425-434-6111. We strongly encourage individuals to make reservations

as walks fill up quickly.

ROADS: Snow and mud cover many roads on the Cle Elum Ranger District. Please do not drive on

muddy roads as the damage caused is very costly to repair. Many higher elevation roads are no longer

accessible by passenger vehicles. Roads will be evaluated on a day to day basis and closed to wheeled

vehicles as snow accumulates allowing for winter recreation activities.

Roads closed to wheeled vehicles:

• Stampede Pass Road No. 5400 • French Cabin Creek Road No. 4308 • Cooper Lake Road No. 4600 • Fish Lake Road No. 4330 • Jungle Creek Road No. 9701

• North Fork Teanaway Road No. 9737 • Jack Creek Road No. 9738 • Woods & Steele (Spex Arth) Road No. 4510 • Peoh Point Road No. 3350

CABIN RENTALS: The Cle Elum Ranger District offers one cabin for public rental. For more

information or to make reservations, contact National Recreation Reservation Service at 1-877-444-6777

or online at www.recreation.gov .

• 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. Once snow falls, 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.

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ENTIAT RANGER DISTRICT

The office phone number is (509) 784-4700.

OFFICE HOURS: 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.

SNOW: Snow covers most roads on the Entiat Ranger District. Snow depths range from 1-4 feet

depending upon elevation. As of Jan. 20, there was 30 inches of snow at Pope Ridge at 3,540 feet

elevation.

ROADS: Snow is covering most Forest Service roads on the Entiat Ranger District. Call the Entiat

Ranger Station for the latest information on road conditions and status. Please tread lightly on national

forest roads. Drive carefully, carry a shovel and use good judgment as road conditions can change

quickly. Four wheel drive and high vehicle clearance are always recommended for travel on forest roads.

If roads are muddy and snowy and your vehicle is damaging the road surface please turn around to

prevent further road damage. Remember, there is limited turn around space available on most forest

roads. Please respect current road closures and do not attempt to drive on groomed snowmobile routes.

Road Name Status

Entiat River Road No. 5100 Closed to passenger vehicles at the Entiat River Sno-Park located at the national forest boundary.

Road No. 5210 in the Mills

Canyon Fire area

Due to safety hazards resulting from the Duncan Fire, the road is closed from the

junction with County Road 717 to the western edge of the Duncan fire area.

Road No. 5212 in the Mills

Canyon Fire area

Due to safety hazards resulting from the Duncan Fire, the road is closed from the

east junction with Road No. 5200 to the junction with Road No. 5210-215.

Road No. 5213 in the Mills

Canyon Fire area

Due to safety hazards resulting from the Duncan Fire, the road is closed from the

east junction with Road No. 5200 to the junction with Road No. 5215.

Road No. 5210-215 in the Mills

Canyon Fire area

Due to safety hazards resulting from the Duncan Fire, the road is closed from the

junction with Road No. 5212 to the junction with Road No. 5210.

Road No. 5215 Due to safety hazards resulting from the Duncan Fire, the road is closed from the

junction with Swakane Creek Road No. 7415 to the junction with Road No. 5200.

Preston Creek Road No. 5501 Closed to passenger vehicles, open to snowmobiles.

Tommy Creek Road No. 5605 Closed to passenger vehicles, open to snowmobiles.

North Fork Road No. 5606 Closed due to public safety concerns resulting from the Duncan Fire.

Tyee Road No. 5700 Closed to passenger vehicles, open to snowmobiles.

Tillicum Creek Road No. 5800 Closed to passenger vehicles, open to snowmobiles.

Shady Pass Road No. 5900 Closed to passenger vehicles, open to snowmobiles.

SNOWMOBILING: Forest Service roads open to snowmobiling once enough snow accumulates and

roads become impassable to passenger vehicles. Grooming has begun on some snowmobile routes. The

Entiat River Road Sno-Park and Mad River Sno-Park require a Sno-Park permit for parking as conditions

currently allow for snowmobiling.

SNOW GROOMING: Call 509-784-4633 for the latest information on groomed routes accessed by the

Fish Lake Sno-Park, located near Lake Wenatchee, and routes accessed by the Mad River Sno-Park,

located in the lower Entiat Valley.

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For the latest information on groomed routes accessed by the Entiat River Sno-Park, located in the

Upper Entiat Valley, call 509-687-SNOW.

Call the Entiat Ranger Station for the latest conditions as they change rapidly this time of year.

Remember snowmobile trails are also used by skiers, dog sledders, snowshoers, and fat tire bicycles, so

stay to the right and ride in control.

CAMPGROUNDS: All district campgrounds are closed for the season.

Campground Location Current Status

Pine Flats 14 miles from Highway 97A, Mad River Road Closed for the season with walk in camping only.

No amenities are available. Fox Creek 27 miles from Highway 97A, Entiat River Road

Lake Creek 28 miles from Highway 97A, Entiat River Road

Silver Falls 30 miles from Highway 97A, Entiat River Road Closed due to public safety concerns resulting from the

Duncan fire. North Fork 33 miles from Highway 97A, Entiat River Road

Spruce Grove 34 miles from Highway 97A, Entiat River Road.

Three Creek 36 miles from Highway 97A, Entiat River Road Closed due to hazardous trees in and around the

campground.

Cottonwood 38 miles from Highway 97A, Entiat River Road Closed due to public safety concerns resulting from the

Duncan fire.

OBSERVATION POINTS: Silver Falls and Entiat Falls observation points are temporarily closed due

to safety concerns resulting from the Duncan Fire.

TRAILS: Forest Service system trails are covered in winter snowpack and trailheads are inaccessible to

passenger vehicles.

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 .

SNOW: As of Jan. 20 there was 19 inches of snow in Winthrop and 28 inches of snow in Mazama.

Washington Pass had 69 inches of snow at 5,500 feet, 83 inches of snow at Hart’s Pass at 6,500 feet, and

Rainy Pass had 77 inches of snow. Please check the SnoTel website at http://go.usa.gov/WypV for

current snow depth information.

SKIING: The Loup-Loup Ski Bowl is open for downhill skiing and the Loup-Loup Bear Mountain

Nordic Skiing trails are groomed for skate ski and touring. Snowshoeing is allowed on designated

snowshoe trails--Flat Loop and multi-use trail. Please check in at the ticket window to purchase a trail

pass and trek along the side of the ski tracks.

1-21-2015 Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest Recreation Report page 11 of 18

South Summit trails are usually groomed for Nordic skiing on Friday. For the South Summit Sno-

Park ski area, turn off at the Loup Loup Pass summit and travel south on forest road No. 41 for a third of a

mile until you reach the sno-park parking area. A season pass is required for each vehicle. Remember to

purchase a sno-park pass prior to traveling to this area. When open, Washington State Sno-Park permits

may be purchased at the Loup Loup Ski Bowl ticket office.

BE AWARE: Most of the South Summit Trail No. 10 in the South Summit Nordic Ski Area is

closed for skiing this winter. Most of Road No. 4100-600 is typically groomed for use as a cross-country

ski trail but this winter it is plowed to be used for hauling timber salvaged after last summer’s Carlton

Complex Fire. The main haul route will be the Pole Pick Road/forest road No. 4100-600. The rest of the

cross-country ski trails in the South Summit Nordic Ski Area remain open to cross-country skiing.

For additional information about cross-country ski, snowshoe, fat bikes, and other winter recreation

go to http://www.methowtrails.org/winter-trails/grooming/ .

SNOWMOBILING: For current online snowmobile trail grooming schedule information go to

http://mountaintrailsgrooming.blogspot.com/p/schedule.html .

NORTH CASCADES HIGHWAY 20 is closed for the season 23 miles west of Winthrop at milepost

171 at Silver Star gate to milepost 134 at Diablo gate.

ROADS: All forest roads are snow covered. Most forest access roads become groomed snowmobile

routes and are annually closed to motorized wheeled vehicle use from December 1 April 1.

Road Name and Number Conditions as of Jan. 20, 2015

Alder Creek/Lookout Mtn. 1065-200 Closed from Oct. 1 to March 31 for non-motorized hunting access.

Finley Canyon 1590-300 Closed due to mudslide-caused road damage.

Finley Canyon 1590-370 Open for one mile then the road is closed by mudslide debris.

Ramsey/Boulder 1631-200 Closed annually for non-motorized hunting in the area beyond Washington

State Fish and Wildlife land.

Highway 153 Open. State Route 153 has reopened in both directions. The detour between

Carlton and Twisp has ended and traffic is unrestricted on State Route 153 from milepost 23 to milepost 28.

State Route 20 (east of Twisp to Loup Loup

Pass) Open

North Cascades State Route 20 Closed for the winter.

Pole Pick 4150-630 Closed to motorized use from Oct. 1 to March 31.

North Summit 42 Closed to motorized wheeled vehicles as the road becomes a groomed

snowmobile route from Dec. 1 to April 1. South Beaver 4225 Open, but snow-covered.

West Fork Buttermilk 4300-550 Closed due to a washout near the bridge at the beginning of the road.

West Fork Buttermilk 4300-560 Closed due to a washout near the bridge at the beginning of the 4300-550

access road.

Little Bridge Creek 4415 Open but snow covered.

Cutthroat 5310-400 Closed to motorized wheeled vehicles. The road becomes a groomed

snowmobile route to Cutthroat Creek during the winter.

Hart’s Pass 5400 Closed to motorized wheeled vehicles. The road becomes a groomed

snowmobile route during the winter.

North Cascade Highway State Route 20 West to Washington/Rainy Passes

Closed to motorized wheeled vehicles. The road becomes a groomed

snowmobile route to Cutthroat Creek during the winter.

1-21-2015 Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest Recreation Report page 12 of 18

Roads closed to motorized use as

the road becomes a groomed cross-country ski route from November 15

to March 31

Roads closed to motorized wheeled

vehicles as the road becomes a groomed snowmobile route from

Dec. 1 to April 1.

Roads closed to motorized wheeled

vehicles as the road becomes a groomed snowmobile route from

Dec. 1 to April 1.

Rendezvous Pass 5215 Boulder 37 West Twisp River 4430

Rendezvous Pass 5215-100 Lower Boulder 3700-980 Reynolds 4435

Rendezvous Pass 5215-300 Boulder Creek to Rogers Lake 39 Twisp River Road 4440

Coal Rader/Thompson 4410 South Summit 4100 East Chewuch 5010

Little Wolf Creek 4410-500 Black Canyon 4010 West Chewuch 51

Little Wolf Creek 4410-520 Black Canyon 4010-050 East Chewuch 5110

Little Wolf Creek 4410-535 Black Canyon 4010-100 Eightmile 5130

Starvation Mountain 4235 Cub Creek 5200

Buttermilk Libby (Buttermilk portion) 43 Cub Pass 5220

Buttermilk Libby (Libby portion) 43 Goat Creek 5200

Poorman Creek 4300-300 Sweetgrass Butte 5220-100

Buttermilk Butte 4300-400 Goat Peak 5225

South Fork Gold Creek 4330 Blackpine Basin 5225-100

North Fork Gold Creek 4340 Goat Peak 5225-200

Twisp River 44 Blackpine Basin 5225-600

South Twisp River 4420

WOODCUTTING: Methow Valley Ranger District firewood gathering season is May 1 to December 31.

Firewood cutting permits for 2015 will be available starting May 1, 2015.

CAMPGROUNDS: All access roads to campgrounds are now blocked by snow. These access roads

annually become groomed snowmobile routes closed to wheeled vehicles from December 1 to April 1.

TRAILS: Snow is accumulating throughout the Methow Valley Ranger District; all trails at all

elevations are now snow covered. All access roads to trailheads are now blocked by snow. Most of these

access roads annually become groomed snowmobile routes closed to wheeled vehicles from December 1

to April 1.

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. No

permit sales after 4 p.m.

SNOW CONDITIONS: Recreationists will find snow at 3,500 feet elevation. Snow conditions are not

looking good so far this winter; weather conditions have been mostly foggy and rainy in the mountains.

As of January 20, there was 10 inches of snow at Hells Crossing and 4 inches of snow in the lower

portion of the Little Naches. The Bumping Sno-Park was groomed on January 20.

1-21-2015 Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest Recreation Report page 13 of 18

SNO-PARK PASSES are on sale at the Naches Ranger District office and cost $42 for a seasonal pass

and $22 for a day pass. Local vendors selling Sno-Park Passes include Slim’s Market and The Little Red

School House in Naches, and Whistlin’ Jack Lodge on Chinook Pass/State Route 410.

TRAVEL ESSENTIALS: Always be prepared for any kind of weather and/or road conditions. Bring

extra clothes, food and water, map, compass and/or GPS, matches, fire starter, pocketknife, first aid kit,

sunglasses, flashlight, and extra batteries. Please have extra blankets, a shovel, flares, tire chains, basic

tools, and toilet paper in your vehicle.

WOODCUTTING: The woodcutting season on the Naches Ranger District ended in October 2014 and

will not reopen until May 2015.

ROADS: Be prepared for all types of road conditions in higher elevation areas including snow, soft road

shoulders and icy road surfaces.

FLOOD DAMAGED ROADS THAT REMAIN CLOSED:

Road Name and Number

Flood Damaged Roads that are CLOSED

Little Rattlesnake Road No. 1501

Closed to all motorized traffic for 5.1 miles from the junction of Forest Road No. 1500/1501 (T15N,

R15E, Sec. 10) to the junction of Forest Road No. 1501 and Forest Road No. 1503 (T15N, R14E, Sec. 24).

Gold Creek Road

No. 1703

The road has been decommissioned from Milepost 2.0 to 2.1. Areas below the decommissioned area can be accessed via Forest Road 1703. Areas above the decommissioned area can be accessed via Forest Road 1705. The road is open to trail users and snowmobiles.

Wildcat Road

No. 1306

Closed to all motorized traffic because of a 30 foot slump in the road and a large culvert that is

eroded and damaged.

Indian Creek Road No. 1308

Closed due to flood waters and large debris that washed out and blocked the last portion of the road

to the trailhead.

CAMPGROUNDS: Naches Ranger District campgrounds are all closed for the winter season.

GROUP RESERVATION SITES: Reservations for group camp sites need to be made through the

National Recreation Reservation Service by calling their toll free number 877-444-6777 or by going

online to their web site at www.recreation.gov . The American Ridge Lodge and American River Guard

Station group reservation sites are open year-round; the other group sites are closed for the season.

If the road to American Ridge Lodge is unsafe to drive due to icy or snowy conditions, the

combination to the lock on the gate will not be provided; access will be by snowshoe, cross-country

skiing or snowmobile only.

Area Group Reservation Sites Status Daily Fee Registration

Fee

Chinook Pass State Route 410

American Ridge Lodge Open $100 $10

American River Guard Station Open $ 50 $10

Indian Flat Closed $100 $10

Kaner Flat Closed $ 60 $10

Pine Needle Closed $ 50 $10

Salmon Cove Closed $ 50 $10

White Pass U.S. Highway 12

Clear Lake ~ North Closed $ 60 $10

South Fork Closed $ 60 $10

1-21-2015 Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest Recreation Report page 14 of 18

MOTORIZED TRAILS: Lower elevation motorized trails on the Naches Ranger District are open.

Forest Service roads that have significant snow will have berms in place. Roads with berms are closed to

wheeled vehicles. These roads are open to only snowmobiles, cross-country skiers and snowshoe users.

Be prepared for snow levels at 3,500 elevation and blowdown--trees that have fallen across the trails.

WILDERNESS TRAILS: Snow level is around 3,500 feet elevation. Be prepared for cold weather

conditions in the higher elevation areas when recreating in the national forest. Before leaving home,

always leave a detailed trip itinerary with a responsible family member or friend.

To check out current conditions at White Pass or any of the other state mountain passes go to

http://www.Wsdot.com/traffic/passes . Washington Trails Association web site (www.wta.org) is also an

excellent site for obtaining updates on current trail conditions.

TONASKET RANGER DISTRICT

The office phone number is (509) 486-2186.

OFFICE HOURS: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. with a 30-minute closure for lunch from

12:30 to 1 p.m. During non-business hours, free forest information is available in the cabinets outside the

main entrance to the district office.

SNOW: Four inches of snow fell at Highland Sno-Park, near Havillah, on Jan. 17 making a total of about

10 inches of snow in that area.

ROADS: Use caution when traveling on forest roads. Most district roads are now closed. Seasonal road

and area closures went into effect on October 1; additional annual road closures are in effect from December

1 through April 1.

Be sure to look at the free Okanogan National Forest Travel Plan Map for more information (available

at national forest offices or online at http://go.usa.gov/64Kk ). For current road conditions please call the

Tonasket Ranger District office at 509-486-2186.

Cow Camp Road No. 3575-120 – four-wheel drive or high clearance vehicles recommend.

Dugout Mountain Road 3005-100 has washed out again in the same spot as last year. It is impassable to

vehicles.

WOODCUTTING: All 2014 wood cutting permits have expired. Wood cutting permits for 2015 are

available at the Tonasket Ranger District office from 8 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. and at the Okanogan Valley

office from 7:30 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. Monday through Friday. These permits may only be used for wood

cutting on the Tonasket Ranger District. Wood cutting permits are non-refundable.

1-21-2015 Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest Recreation Report page 15 of 18

SNO-PARK PERMITS: Parking in a designated Sno-Park requires a Sno-Park permit. Permits and

decals are available at the Tonasket Ranger District office. This permit is typically sold to cross-country

ski and snowshoe enthusiasts. Annual passes are $42 and day passes are $22.

SNOWMOBILING AND SKIING: Trails for both skating and classic track skiing have been groomed

at the Highlands Sno-Park. Highlands Sno-Park currently has 15 miles of groomed trails including

Whitetail, Twista Vista, Windsong, Sunshine Loop, Hej Bue, and Straight Edge with four inches of new

snow. Some snowmobile trails in the Conconully area have been groomed.

Opportunities for cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, dog sledding, and snowshoeing are available

at a variety of locations on the Tonasket District:

Kerr Sno-Park is located five miles north of Conconully on County Road No. 2361 and Salmon Meadows Road 38. There are two snowmobile trails off of Kerr Sno-Park--Longswamp and Tiffany Meadows.

Peacock Meadows Sno-Park is just three miles south of Conconully on County Road 2017.

Crawfish Sno-Park, just 12 miles east of Riverside is one of Okanogan County’s best kept secrets. Cross the Okanogan River Bridge in Riverside, turn left on Old Riverside Highway and continue uphill. At the “Y” turn right to Tunk Valley. Crawfish Lake is at the end of the road.

Please review the free Okanogan National Forest Travel Plan Map for the areas open for use.

Additional information is available at http://www.okanogancountry.com/locations/maps/snowmobiling/.

CAMPGROUNDS: All developed campgrounds on the Tonasket District are closed for the winter

season; water systems have been turned off and no amenities are available. If planning to camp at these

closed campgrounds, please remember to bring drinking water and pack out all trash.

TRAILS: All trails on the Tonasket Ranger District are snow covered. Please use extreme caution when

hiking during the winter season. See the forest website at http://go.usa.gov/8fKA for a complete list of

trails and directions.

RECREATION PASSES: Recreation passes cost $5 per vehicle per day or $30 for an annual

Northwest Forest Pass. Interagency Passes are also honored at trailheads. Passes are available at the

ranger district office or online at www.discovernw.org .

WENATCHEE RIVER RANGER DISTRICT

The office phone number is (509) 548-2550.

WINTER OFFICE HOURS: 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Public restrooms are no

longer available in the office. The Lake Wenatchee Ranger Station is no longer open for visitor services.

SNOW: As of Jan. 20, there was 16 inches of snow on Blewett Pass, 55 inches at Stevens Pass and 59 inches

at Trinity. Over 12 inches of snow fell in the Lake Wenatchee area over the Jan. 17-19 weekend;

unfortunately, rain came soon after. For crisp snow conditions, try recreating during the morning hours before

warmer temperatures make the snow slushy or soft.

1-21-2015 Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest Recreation Report page 16 of 18

GENERAL SNOW GROOMING CONDITIONS: Please call the snow grooming hotline at 509-784-

4633 for current snow grooming information.

• Nason Ridge routes are groomed with a soft base.

• Chiwawa route--groomed for classic skiing. Open to dogs after 12 noon!

WOODCUTTING permits will be available in early May 2015.

ROADS: Snow covers most forest roads. Please contact the Wenatchee River Ranger Station for current

road status. Once enough snow accumulates forest roads become closed to four-wheeled vehicles and

open to over the snow recreationists.

The Shaser Creek ATV route, located on Road No. 7322 in the Blewett Pass area, is closed to all

public use Monday through Friday from 5 a.m. to 5 p.m. Logging operations are occurring in this area

necessitating the closure of this road.

White River Road No. 6400 is open to the bridge below Tall Timber Ranch

Mission Creek Road No. 7100 is closed at the main road

WEATHER: Go to www.NOAA.gov for current weather conditions; use zip code 98826 for weather

conditions in the Leavenworth area. Remember weather conditions are changing rapidly. Be prepared for

winter weather conditions! For current snow/weather conditions for the Lake Wenatchee State Park area go

to Weather Station. Local weather forecasts are available from the National Weather Service Forecast .

SNO-PARK PERMITS: Sno-Park permits are required in all areas. An $80 Season Sno-Park pass with

a Groomed Trails sticker will get you into all parking areas. At the state park, an annual or day Discover

Pass is required in addition to the $20 Daily Sno-Park pass. Self-pay stations are available at each

parking area within the state park for daily Sno-Park and daily Discover Passes. Sno-Park permits are

available online: Buy a Sno-Park Permit

CROSS-COUNTRY TRAIL DESCRIPTIONS AND GROOMING SCHEDULE: • South Lake Wenatchee State Park area: Approximately 12 kilometers of groomed double-

tracked trails are available. Within the state park, the total includes a series of 1-3 km loops and

longer runs through the forest, along the lakeshore and above Wenatchee River. Open loops are

groomed in and around Kahler Glen Golf Course. These trails will typically be groomed

Thursday through Monday.

• Nason Ridge Backcountry: This 20-kilometer groomed trail system begins at the Nason Ridge

Sno-Park at Kahler Glen, within the South Lake Wenatchee State Park trail system. Lower Nason

consists of the first 7 km and has rolling hills. At the 7 km point, the Upper Nason route begins; it

is a challenging 13 km loop option. The trail climbs 1,500 feet to access miles of rolling, open,

ridge-top terrain. The panoramic views of Lake Wenatchee and the surrounding Cascade

mountains are spectacular. All trails are groomed with one track lane and a wide skating lane.

Lower Nason is groomed on Thursdays and the entire trail system, including Upper Nason, is

groomed on Saturdays, Sundays and holidays. Challenging loop trip options are possible by way

of the ungroomed Nason Ridge hiking trail. The great majority of this trail system lies on

private land owned by Weyerhaeuser Company. Many thanks to Weyerhauser for allowing

access!

1-21-2015 Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest Recreation Report page 17 of 18

• North Lake Wenatchee State Park area: The groomed trails in the North Lake Wenatchee State

Park area provide 5.3 km of scenic routes which loop through the campgrounds, follow the river

and lake shores, and run through quiet stretches of forest. This area offers a less-traveled

alternative to the sometimes busy trails in the south State Park area. These trails will typically be

groomed, double-tracked with mini-skate lane (5.5 feet wide), four or five times per week, usually

Thursday through Tuesday as conditions and equipment allow.

• Chiwawa See and Ski Trail: This sno-park offers access to the See and Ski Trail, an 8 km

groomed loop with a full skate lane (8 feet wide) and single track for the entire route. The trail

passes through the forest and along the Wenatchee River. This trail will typically be groomed

Friday through Monday. After a successful trial last year, dogs are allowed daily after noon.

SNOWSHOE TRAIL INFORMATION:

• South Lake Wenatchee State Park area offers a 1.8-mile loop trip and a route to Nason Ridge

for the more adventurous. The loop follows Wenatchee River and Nason Creek then returns to the

beach through a ponderosa pine/Douglas fir forest. The Nason Ridge Trail is 2.7 miles from the

beach to the ridge top. Great views begin about one mile from the beach.

• North Lake Wenatchee State Park area: A 2-mile loop route is maintained along the river,

lakeshore and through the forest. Thanks to our volunteers!

• Chiwawa area: a 1.5 or 3.8 mile semi-loop snowshoe trail with 600 feet elevation gain offers

great views. This route was built by volunteers!

LAKE WENATCHEE STATE PARK SLEDDING HILL offers a moderate slope, about 150 feet long.

Good for families. Located in the south Lake Wenatchee State Park area. Currently groomed.

CAMPGROUNDS: No fees are charged at district campgrounds during the winter months as water and

garbage services are not provided. Due to colder weather, campground water systems have been shut

down and campgrounds have been winterized. Campers need to remember to bring drinking water, toilet

paper and pack out garbage if they use the campgrounds.

Tumwater Campground, located 10 miles west of Leavenworth on Highway 2, is CLOSED due to flood hazard potential. No camping is permitted.

Soda Springs Campground is CLOSED due to hazardous trees in the area. No camping is permitted.

GROUP CAMPSITES: To reserve one of the large group sites at Eightmile, Bridge 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.

TRAILS: Forest visitors will encounter snow on forest trails. Please refer to www.NWHikers.net for real

time postings and conditions from fellow hikers.

Due to public safety concerns resulting from the Chiwaukum and Hansel Creek fires, the following

areas and trails are CLOSED to public entry:

Hatchery Creek Trail No. 1557

Painter Creek Trail No. 1575

Index Creek Trail No. 1572

Chiwaukum Creek Trail and South Fork Chiwaukum Creek Trail No. 1571

North Fork Chiwaukum Creek Trail No. 1591

Badlands Trail No. 1576

Top Lake Trail No. 1506

Ingalls Creek Trail No. 1215 is closed to the junction with Falls Creek Trail No. 1216

1-21-2015 Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest Recreation Report page 18 of 18

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 Buck Creek (Trinity) Blackpine Chiwaukum Creek Devil’s Gulch (Lower) * Dirtyface Eightmile* Estes Butte

Hidden Lake * Ingalls Creek * Icicle Creek Icicle Gorge * Jack/Trout Little Wenatchee * Lower Chiwawa Nason Ridge

Red Hill * Rock Creek Round Mountain Snow Lakes * Stuart Lake * Twin Lakes White River

Day passes can also be purchased during the summer months from fee tubes at the trailheads noted with * above.

Recreation day use 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 2015 Enchantment

Lottery will be held on www.Recreation.gov sometime in February through March 2015. For more

information please contact www.Recreation.gov or call Wenatchee River Ranger Station at 509-548-

2550.