East Applegate Ridge Trailhead closed until April 30
Event Description
MEDFORD, Ore. — The Bureau of Land Management has closed BLM road 38-2-29.1 through April 30 for public safety. The road provides access to the East Applegate Ridge Trailhead from Sterling Creek Road.
A private landowner is exercising a right-of-way grant to haul timber across BLM Road 38-2-29.1. The timber is being removed from private lands in the area. These actions create significant safety risks to the public. The operator has blocked off the road, do not hike past the closure. Members of the public have hiked through the timber operation, slowing down the project and requiring an extended closure.
“This closure is necessary to ensure the safety of the public and the heavy equipment operators,” said Lauren Brown, Ashland Field Manager. “Obeying the closure will allow the operator to continue working without interruptions.”
The western access to the East Applegate Ridge Trail on Highway 238 will remain open. Other trails in the area offer a great alternative, including the Jack-Ash Trail and the Sterling Mine Ditch Trail. April is also a great time to explore some nearby hidden gems, like the Enchanted Forest Trail or the Tallowbox Trail.
The BLM manages more than 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.