Safety First: Visiting the Garnet Fire Area

The Sierra National Forest welcomes visitors back to the area affected by the Garnet Fire. While this landscape is open, many hazards remain.  If visiting this area, please plan carefully before you go — you are entering post-fire terrain where hazard trees, loose soil, flooding, and debris flows remain a serious risk. Before You Go 

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• Tell someone your plans. Share your route and expected return time with a friend or family member.
• Bring reliable communication tools. Cell service is limited in much of the Sierra.
• Consider devices such as satellite phone, GPS communicator, or personal locator.
• Check current Forest Orders and maps. Some roads and recreation sites remain closed, including Black Rock Road due to bridge damage. Visit https://www.fs.usda.gov/r05/sierra for the latest updates.
• Pack for conditions. Expect uneven ground, fallen trees, damaged trails, and minimal signage. Proper footwear, extra water, and first-aid supplies are advised.
• Be weather aware. Burned areas are prone to flash floods and debris slides even during light rain. Check the forecast and avoid entering drainages or steep terrain when storms are predicted.  High winds also pose a substantial risk with the number of hazard trees at present.   
• If you choose to visit this area:
  • Watch for hazard trees. Dead and fire-weakened trees can fall without warning, even on calm days. Avoid stopping or camping under standing dead trees.
  • Be mindful of posted hazard warnings and closures. They are there for your protection and to support restoration work.
  • Off-trail travel can expose you to unstable ground.
  • Keep emergency numbers handy. Dial 911 for emergencies, but note that response times may be delayed in remote areas. When in Doubt, Turn Back
• These areas are open for recreation, but they are not risk-free. If conditions appear unsafe, trust your instincts, leave the area, and return at a safer time, or visit some of the 1.2million acres of the Sierra National Forest that were not a part of the Garnet Fire.