Forest Reminds Users of Changing Spring Conditions

Flathead National Forest managers remind all Forest users to be prepared for changing conditions and be aware of possible hazards. Water levels remain very high and all visitors are asked to be very cautious and properly evaluate if conditions are safe enough to allow for foot or stock crossings. As crews work to clear trails they are encountering small wash-outs and some large avalanche debris areas. If anyone encounters damaged trail tread or other conditions please report it to the respective ranger district. You may encounter road work including blading, brushing and ditch cleaning. Work areas will be clearly signed and motorists are asked to use caution. All forest users should expect the unexpected.

There are specific hazards to be aware of. On the Spotted Bear Ranger District, there is a special order restricting access to the Log Landing dispersed site while the Tin Mule Timber Sale operator is hauling logs out of the adjacent unit. Forest System Road # 5384, which provides access to the area, is closed to provide for public safety. Access to the dispersed site is expected to be open by July 1.

Also on Spotted Bear, the East Side Trail (Trail #80) is closed to all foot and stock use from the Helen Creek Bench on the south side of Helen Creek to Damnation Creek. This location is in the 2013 Damnation fire area. The higher snowpack in combination with spring run-off conditions resulted in extensive trail damage that does not allow for any users to have access on this stretch of trail. Forest Service crews are working hard to provide for safe access in this area.

The Flathead National Forest encourages everyone to participate in National Get Outdoors Day on June 14, 2014. Flathead National Forest has a variety of outdoor opportunities including campgrounds, cabin rentals, more than 2,000 miles of trails, river access sites on all three forks of the Flathead River and more than a million acres of wilderness.

The Summit Nature Center located at the Summit House on Whitefish Mountain Resort opens for the summer season on National Get Outdoors Day. The Center is a fun place for families with plenty of hands-on discovery. The Flathead National Forest will also have a booth at the National Get Outdoors Day at Lone Pine State Park in Kalispell where you can find recreation information and outdoor activities for kids including the Junior Forest Ranger activity guide.

For any questions or concerns contact:
Spotted Bear Ranger Station at (406) 758-5376
Hungry Horse/Glacier View Ranger Districts at (406) 387-3800
Swan Lake Ranger District at (406) 837-7500
Tally Lake Ranger District at (406) 758-5204