Whoops, Pine Drops Area Closures Still in Effect

Ecological thinning of our overly dense forests is conducted to reduce vegetation and growth on the forest floor, which leaves less fuel for wildfires. This work is especially critical in the forest adjacent to Bend, which happens to be some of our favorite riding areas.

The following trails within the Euro Stewardship contract area are temporarily closed for the safety of trail users as well as the safety and efficiency of timber harvesting and forest restoration operations: 

• Lower Whoops, Pine Drops, EXT, the northwest portion of Storm King, and Helipad (upper Phil's from Whoops bench to 300 road)
• Trails are closed Monday – Friday. Open Saturday, Sunday & federal holidays. 
• The 300 Road is currently closed also but will reopen once road reconstruction work has been completed.
• Beginning April 1st, a portion of the Forest Service Road (FSR) 4610, 4601-300 and 310 roads will be closed 7 days a week.

Please use caution and obey the closures! Your cooperation will mean the contractors can work more efficiently, ultimately resulting in the trails being reopened sooner.

Map and more info can be found here.

ALSO: Prescribed Fire Season is Here
With warmer temperatures approaching, fire managers on the Deschutes National Forest will also be gearing up for multiple prescribed burns planned for our area. The use of prescribed fire in Central Oregon’s fire-adapted ecosystems helps clear out small trees and brush that acts as wildfire fuel, and it also enhances wildlife habitat and plant life.

Throughout the next two-to-three months, you may see some smoke and other temporary trail closures, depending upon the prescribed burning locations. Make sure you're signed up for DCFP's newsletter to receive updates here.