McKenzie Pass reopens

MCKENZIE BRIDGE: Successful firefighting efforts and favorable weather conditions, combined with the Oregon Dept. of Transportation’s decision to reopen Hwy. 242, have boosted Fall access to many recreation sites.

Willamette Forest officials this week announced that the Linton Creek Fire Closure area has been reduced into four smaller closures around the Boulder Creek, Linton Creek, Young Grasshopper, and 374 fires, which sparked from a lightning storm on September 6th. The updated closure orders will be in effect until January 1st unless conditions change.

Recreation sites include Proxy Falls, Aufderheide Drive, and portions of the Three Sisters and Mount Washington Wilderness areas. Benson/Tenas Lakes, Foley, and Linton Lake are among the reopened trailheads. Reopening the Old McKenzie Pass has restored access to the Dee Wright Observatory, Scott Lake Campground, and the Benson and Tenas Lakes area.

“Although fire season is not yet over, we feel confident about the progress fire crews are making on wildfires,” said McKenzie River District Ranger Darren Cross. “We want to make sure people can get back out there and enjoy their favorite places as soon as it is safe.”

With large portions of the Three Sisters and Mount Washington Wilderness areas reopened and accessible, visitors are reminded to get Central Cascades Wilderness Permits, which are required through October 15th. Willamette National Forest - Recreation Passes & Permits (usda.gov)

The reduced closures also greatly expand hunting opportunities, reopening miles of road and thousands of acres. As wildfires are still active in the area, hunters are advised to review existing closure maps and stay out of closed areas for their safety and the safety of firefighters.

For a map of the closure areas and a complete list of recreation sites and roads included in the orders, visit tinyurl.com/yccprw75 For updates on Highway 242, visit TripCheck.com