Colville National Forest Lands and Trails are Open, Though Many Recreation Sites are Temporarily Closed

Release Date: Mar 27, 2020

Colville, Wash. (March 27, 2020) – We are transitioning to spring on the Colville National Forest and we know that people want to be outside enjoying the fresh air. We are not closing access to the Colville National Forest at this time, however most of our recreation sites are under seasonal closure and we will assess the need to keep them closed as snowmelt makes them accessible.

The Colville National Forest supports Governor Inslee’s “Stay Home, Stay Healthy” order, and encourages you to enjoy the outdoors close to home.  We are working with our communities to address local needs, availability of service, and needed closures to align with county and state recommendations and guidelines.

If you visit public lands, we ask that you take extra steps to do so safely and help protect our communities during the COVID-19 emergency. Please practice social distancing, even outdoors. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides guidance on keeping safe.

Additionally, the Colville National Forest encourages you not to take any risks that might result in the need for health care or search and rescue services. Our first responder community is stretched to their limits right now and COVID-19 is their top priority.

Conditions in the forest can change quickly during the spring, so please be prepared. You are responsible for your own safety.

What is Open:  Many day-use recreation opportunities like trails and general forest (undeveloped) areas remain open at this time, but may not be accessible due to wet, muddy, and snowy conditions. 

What is Closed: To support state and local measures directing people to stay home to save lives, developed campgrounds and recreation sites, Snow Peak Cabin, and all restroom facilities on the Colville National Forest are closed.  Closures are temporary, but are in effect until further notice.

Please keep in mind:

• We cannot guarantee Coronavirus-free facilities. Offices, developed recreation sites and restrooms are closed and restrooms will not be serviced.

• We still have wet, muddy, and snowy conditions on many trails and roads and these routes should be considered closed to motorized access until conditions improve.  Please “Tread Lightly” on national forest roads and trails by limiting or avoiding use to prevent damage during the wet spring season.

• Roads are currently experiencing freeze-thaw conditions and are generally impassible due to snow, ice, mud, and downed trees.

• If you decide to go for a drive on national forest system roads or ride on motorized trails, please consult the forest’s Motor Vehicle Use Maps to determine which roads and trails are open to various types of motorized use.  Many roads and trails do not open until April 1 or later as listed on the back of the Motor Vehicle Use Maps. Motor Vehicle Use Map information can be obtained on our website.  Causing damage, such as rutting, to roads is a violation of regulations.

• Sno-Parks will no longer be plowed nor will the trails they access be groomed. Sno-Park access roads may be hazardous, icy, or blocked.

• Snow Peak Cabin is closed and will not be serviced.  The wood stove has been damaged and is inoperable. Do not use this facility.

• 49 Degrees North Mountain Resort is closed.  No snowmobiles allowed.  Human powered travel is permitted but there is no ski patrol.  Practice sound backcountry safety protocols.  Stay away from buildings and equipment. 

Local managers are committed to the health and safety of recreational visitors and our staff. We are following the guidelines from our department and the CDC regarding COVID-19, closely monitoring the situation, and responding to current conditions.

For the latest info, call 509-775-7400.

Know Before You Go

Ten Essentials, Washington Trail Association