Olympic National Forest and Olympic National Park will reopen FS-24, various Lake Cushman recreation sites, and the Staircase developed area on July 8.
The area closed when the Bear Gulch Fire ignited in the Olympic National Forest on July 6, 2025.
“Repair efforts of this scale require coordination with many partners, including Olympic National Forest and the Washington Department of Natural Resources,” said Olympic National Park Superintendent Sula Jacobs. “We appreciate everyone’s support and teamwork as we work to restore this beloved corner of Olympic National Park, and we can’t wait to welcome everyone back.”
“Our teams have worked tirelessly to recover access to this cherished area,” said Joyce Hamilla, acting forest supervisor for Olympic National Forest. “We are grateful for the collaboration across agencies and for the patience of the community as we restore safe access to these public lands.”
Multiple developed sites along FS‑24 and within Staircase will open on July 8, including:
The Staircase campground within Olympic National Park will begin accepting reservations on Recreation.gov on July 8.
FS‑2451, Copper Creek Trail, and wilderness trails beyond the developed area of Staircase will remain closed while crews complete hazard assessments and repair damaged backcountry infrastructure, including bridges and privies.
Throughout the winter and spring, crews and specialists performed a variety of mitigation and monitoring efforts, including stabilizing roadways, clearing drainage infrastructure, installing barriers, monitoring rockfall, repairing the Mt. Rose Trail and Rapids Loop Trail, and removing hazard trees in developed areas.
Restoration work will continue throughout the summer, including trail stabilization, erosion control, culvert repairs, and vegetation management.
Area closures may change as recovery efforts continue, the Olympic National Forest said in a news release.
Visitors are asked to use extreme caution when entering burned areas.
“Though risks are always present in wilderness exploration, fire impacts increase those risks,” Olympic National Park managers said in a news release.
Burned landscapes may contain falling trees and branches, loose boulders, unstable ground, stump holes, landslides, and debris flows. Changing conditions such as wind, rain, or storms can rapidly trigger hazards.
To reduce risks in burned areas and help them recover faster, visitors are asked to:
Allow trail crews time to repair trail tread and bridges. Even if trails appear intact, there may be hidden holes from burnt out roots. Turn around when you encounter closed areas. Entering closed areas creates risks for others, such as search and rescue crews. Without trail infrastructure, crews may struggle to enter and exit these closed areas.
Branches and trees may fall without warning and when there is no wind. Stay aware and scan for overhead hazards. Keep track of escape paths and run if you hear trees or rocks cracking, snapping, or rolling. Don’t linger or camp under trees in burned wilderness areas. Watch your footing for stump holes and unstable ground.
Rocks, debris, and downed trees may block the road at any time. Be alert and drive slowly, especially during rainy or windy weather. Bring extra supplies, like food and water, in case the road becomes blocked.
Weather can increase hazards in burned areas. Wind can knock down standing dead trees and branches. If high or gusty winds are forecasted, do not go into a burned area. If wind picks up while in an area, leave immediately. Major storms including rain or snow can trigger flash floods, landslides, and debris flows.
Burned areas are especially susceptible to invasive species. Check shoes and gear for seeds and remove them before hitting the trail.
