Siuslaw National Forest

Siuslaw National Forest
4077 S.W. Research Way
P.O. Box 1148
Corvallis, Oregon 97339

(541) 750-7000
Fax: (541) 750-7234

TTY for hearing & speech impaired:
(Oregon Relay)

Marys Peak Road Closure

Contact:
Mike Harvey, 541-750-7046
Joni Quarnstrom, 541-750-7075

December11, 2008

Corvallis, OR -- A severe cold front predicted for this weekend that includes heavy wind and snow fall in the Coast Range has prompted Siuslaw National Forest officials to limit access to Marys Peak.

“With safety in mind for people driving the Marys Peak road, the upper gate at West Point was closed this morning,” said Mike Harvey, Forest Recreation Staff Officer.

Officials will close the lower gate at Connor’s Camp on Friday.

The upper gate, added last fall near West Point, will remain closed throughout the winter season opening when the road becomes clear of snow and debris next spring. When the road is clear and safe for vehicular travel between the lower gate, located at milepost five and a half near Conner’s Camp, and the upper gate at West Point, located a mile and a half from the top of the Peak, officials will open the lower gate allowing vehicle access to the upper gate, closer to the snow level.

“We are sincerely trying to find the best and safest winter management for the Peak possible”, Harvey said. “ We hear from a number of Corvallis and Philomath residents that they enjoy the relatively close access to snow that Marys Peak periodically provides between December and March,” added Harvey. “We also work closely with the Benton County Sheriff’s Department and Emergency Management who are partners with us in public safety,” said Harvey.

If you do visit the peak during the winter months, be advised that the road will not be plowed or maintained and driving can be very treacherous. Travelers should plan for winter driving conditions and be aware that conditions can change quickly during the day and at different elevations. Always let someone know where you are going and include a survival emergency kit in your vehicle.

In addition to the gate closure, the road below the gates will not be plowed during the winter. Forest Road 30 to the town of Harlan is not plowed, but remains open year round.

“Non-motorized snow recreation remains available on the Peak during the entire winter season, snow levels permitting,” added Harvey.

For more information about Marys Peak gate closure or the Siuslaw National Forest visit the web at: http://www.fs.fed.us/r6/siuslaw/ or call 541-750-7000.

Check gate closure status on the Marys Peak page.