Central Oregon trail update
Published 12:00 am Wednesday, August 27, 2014
Labor Day weekend is here. For a lot of folks, it’s the last hurrah of the summer.
About 80 percent of Deschutes National Forest trails are log free and clear for travel. Mosquitoes are almost nonexistent for most trails, but trails have become a bit on the dusty side again.
There will be a big push for folks to get out this weekend, so things are going to be quite busy at a lot of trails on the Deschutes National Forest. Expect high usage at popular locations like Green and Moraine lakes and South Sister. Trail users are not advised to take dogs up South Sister due to the abrasive volcanic soils and elevation and dehydration risks.
The Pacific Crest Trail segment from Irish and Taylor lakes north to Six Lakes is now open to stock travel.
Jefferson Lake trail is still subject to a fire closure. Newberry Caldera trails are in good condition.
The Sunriver to Lava Lands paved trail is expected to have record crowds this weekend. Bikers are advised to use extra caution on that trail, specifically on the slope going down into Benham East, where there have been collisions between bikers.
As far as backcountry trails, wilderness rangers will be on full-scale duty this weekend to educate and enforce regulations. Public use restrictions are still in effect for non-wilderness backcountry areas. Some wilderness campgrounds are still restricted for campfires, but folks should check the Deschutes National Forest website for specific areas.
The dog leash requirement is also in effect for the Deschutes River Trail corridor until Sept. 15. Trail users should pay close attention to trailhead bulletin boards and “leave no trace” principles.