Emergency Closure Order in Effect for Popular Ramona Trails

Release Date: Jun 23, 2017

 U.S. Forest Service
Cleveland National Forest

 

Emergency Closure Order in Effect for Popular Ramona Trails

San Diego, CA. (June 23, 2017) - An emergency closure order has been implemented for Three Sisters Falls and Cedar Creek Falls, effective Sunday, June 26 through Monday, June 27, due to the anticipated heat wave and considerable public health and safety concerns.

 

Three Sisters Falls continues to experience an influx in usage, which has rapidly degraded the trail and significantly added to the difficulty level, while Cedar Creek Falls has been a hiker hot spot for years after gaining popularity on social media sites. High heat, which is common in the City of Ramona, has been a primary factor in higher casualties, spurring an increase of air and foot rescues for both popular trail systems.

 

Heat related injuries have prompted officials to implement emergency closure orders when temperatures are expected to exceed 95 degrees. Fire officials will continue to weigh the forecast and associated risks in an effort to preserve the health and safety of rescuers and the public. These closures are expected to occur throughout the summer.

 

The Forest Service is dedicated to improving public safety and access to the Three Sisters Trail. Last month, construction was completed on an extended parking lot, which simplified the parking issue, clearing space for up to 60 cars and 8 emergency vehicles. Meanwhile, the planning phase continues for new trail construction, which will provide safer access the area and is set to begin in late fall.

 

###