Due to a lapse in federal funding, this USDA website will not be actively updated. Once funding has been reestablished, online operations will continue. On-going operational updates will be posted here (https://www.fs.fed.us/shutdown) as we are able to provide them.
Remember, conditions can change rapidly, especially in backcountry areas. Always check weather reports before your trip, pack the ten essential systems and be prepared for all kinds of weather. Bring plenty of water and pack out all trash. Review our safety tips.
Latest Conditions
General Update: 11/7/2018 - The weather is starting to become colder and wetter with some snow is falling in the upper elevations. The southern area of Maple Fire is still closed but Hamma Hamma area is now open. Review Maple Fire closure updates. Most campgrounds are closed for the winter. Campground & trail conditions are on our Recreation page. Tell us about your experience using our online register, call us (360) 956-2402, or email us
Forest Roads View a list of Forest Road conditions. Contact your local ranger station to inquire about a specific route. Please note that wildlife gates are closed from October 1 until May 1. Forest roads are prone to flooding and washouts. Never attempt to cross road washouts as you could easily get trapped. Travel with your lights on, obey speed limits, and watch for pedestrians and other vehicles.
Area(s):
Elk Lake Trail #805, Elk Lake Lower Trailhead, Jefferson Lake Trail, Jefferson Lake Trailhead, Jefferson Ridge Trail #808, Jefferson Ridge Trailhead
Date(s): Dec 11, 2018
The Maple Fire has been declared contained. The fire area south of the Hamma Hamma River (including Forest Roads 2421, 2401, and a portion of 12441) remains closed due to hazards posed by falling trees and rolling rocks from the burned area.
Trail Closures: Beaver Pond Loop #815, Jefferson Ridge/Lakes Trail (#808), Upper & Lower Elk Lake Trail (#805).
Road Closures: Forest Roads 2421, 2401 & spur roads, 2441 at MP 5 to the terminus.
A planned road construction and timber sale operation, beginning in early June, is expected to bring slow travel time for motorists on Forest Road 23 and impact campers at the Brown Creek Campground. Starting on Monday, June 7, motorists on the road may experience intermittent traffic stoppage and delays.
Brown Creek Campground is expected to remain open during this operation, however, visitors should be aware that heavy equipment will be going through the campground.
The area around Big Creek Campground is part of the Lower Skokomish Vegetation Management Project. The project’s primary objective is to accelerate the development of old growth habitat by commercially thinning second growth forests. A small portion of this project is around Big Creek Campground and the Big Creek Trail System.
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