Some Horsethief fire area trails to reopen

Several trails that have been closed due to Horsethief Canyon fire near Jackson will reopen Friday afternoon. Fire managers have approved a reduced closure area that, upon the conclusion of aviation operations, will allow access to the Snow King Summit, Cache Creek drainage, Crystal Butte and Nowlin Peak.

The aviation operations include flying sling loads of gear suspended below helicopters. The areas were to reopen at 4 pm Friday.

Trails open effective 4 p.m. Friday, September 21 are:
• Cache Creek including the Putt-putt, Ferrin’s and Hagan trails
• Josie’s Ridge
• Snow King Summit and Summit Ridge
Some continued trial closures are necessary to provide protection to forest visitors from current fire hazards associated with the Horsethief Canyon Fire and to facilitate continuing fire operations. Trail closure signs are posted to distinguish areas where the public may access and use trails and areas that remain closed. Paragliders are reminded that a flight restriction remains in effect over the fire area.
Trails that remain closed are:
• Game Greek including the West Fork
• Leeks Canyon including the South Fork
• Wilson Canyon
• Horsethief Canyon
Entering a closure area is a violation of Federal law and punishable by a fine of up to $5,000 for individuals, and $10,000 for organizations and/or imprisonment for up to 6 months.