Los Padres National Forest

News Release

US Forest Service

Los Padres National Forest

Date: April 27, 2009

Los Padres to Reopen Areas Burned in 2008 Fires;
With Extensive Trail Damage, Public Urged to Use Extreme Caution

Los Padres National Forest officials today announced that areas burned last year by the Indians, Basin and Chalk Fires will reopen to the public May 1. Most of the Monterey Ranger District, including the entire Ventana Wilderness, was closed to public entry through the winter. These areas were closed to protect public safety and natural resourses.

The Escondido campground where the Indians Fire started will remain closed as Forest Service personnel continue to repair recreational facilities damaged in the fire. The Pine Ridge Trail from the Forest boundary on the west to Redwood Camp will also remain closed to the public as it is currently impassable.

"The closures were an inconvenience to our visitors, however this provided the opportunity the Ventana Wilderness and surrounding areas needed to recover and regenerate," said Monterey District Ranger John Bradford.

Bradford urged visitors to exercise caution when hiking and camping, and to be aware of potential hazards.

Visitors are encouraged to contact the Monterey Ranger District's King City office at (831) 385-5434 for information specific to the areas they are interested in visiting.

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