The Boise National Forest has reduced the Pioneer Fire Closure Area, opening the Bear Creek area, northeast of Idaho City. National Forest Systems Roads 312, 348, 348J and NFS trail 565 (also known as the Crooked Pike Loop Trail) have all been opened -- increasing opportunities for winter recreation.
This reduced closure area opens up access to popular groomed snowmobile routes, Forest officials said.
All other area and trail closures on the Lowman and Idaho City Ranger Districts remain closed, including NFS Road 362.
“While immediate threat hazard trees have been removed along priority roads and snowmobile routes, public health and safety threats still exist,” said Boise national Forest Public Affairs spokeswoman Linda Steinhaus. “Burned trees will continue to fall as snow loads increase, and avalanche danger may be higher in burned areas. Anyone accessing or recreating in these areas should always plan ahead and proceed with caution.”
Recovery and restoration work is ongoing in the Pioneer Fire area, and temporary closures may be put in place for public safety, she added.
Visitors should look for posted warning signs and be aware of their surroundings and current weather conditions.
For all closures within the Boise National Forest visit you can visit: http://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/boise/alerts-notices.
