Hello Trail Lovers,

This isn’t the update we hoped to be sharing, but the combination of extreme fire danger and the ongoing Grasshopper Fire means several of our favorite places to ride are now closed. We know this is disappointing—especially during prime riding season—but these temporary closures are critical to protecting our forests, our trails, and the firefighters, land managers, and volunteers working to keep them safe..

IFPL 3 Closures

Industrial Fire Precaution Level (IFPL) is a system used to reduce the risk of human-caused wildfires during periods of extreme fire danger. IFPL Level 3 is among the highest precaution levels and requires the closure of many recreation areas on private timber lands. Simply put, IFPL 3 means fire danger is extreme, and these closures are necessary to reduce the risk of starting another wildfire.

The following trail systems on private land are currently closed:

• Whoopdee
• Hospital Hill
• Underwood

These trails are on private property. Respecting these closures isn’t just about following the rules—it demonstrates to our landowners that the mountain bike community is a responsible partner. Ignoring closures today could jeopardize access for everyone in the future.

Grasshopper Fire

The Grasshopper Fire continues to impact recreation throughout the Mt. Hood area. Currently, 44 trails fall within Level 3 (“Go Now”) evacuation orders or Level 2 (“Be Set to Go”) evacuation warnings.

Please stay informed, respect all emergency closures, and give firefighters and emergency crews the space they need to do their work safely. These restrictions are also in place to protect the safety and well-being of everyone recreating in these areas. No ride is worth putting yourself—or the firefighters and emergency personnel who may have to rescue you—in harm’s way.

Post Canyon Is Still Open

The good news is that Post Canyon remains open for non-motorized recreation.

However, Hood River and Wasco Counties are under Regulated Use Closures (RUC)due to extreme fire danger. Combustion-engine motorized use is prohibited on County Forest trails at Middle Mountain, Pinemont, and Fir Mountain (Eastside). Open campfires and fireworks are also prohibited throughout the County Forest. Campfires are allowed only in designated fire rings at County campgrounds, and portable cooking stoves using bottled or liquefied fuel remain permitted.

Thank You

We know these restrictions aren’t what any of us want during the height of summer. But every rider who respects closures helps protect our forests, supports our landowners, and ensures these incredible trail systems remain available for years to come.

Thank you for doing your part, staying informed, and looking out for our trails—and for each other.

Happy Trails,
HRATS

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Categories: Advocacy, mountain bike