Hunting Washington Forum

Big Game Hunting => Elk Hunting => Topic started by: SGM R on October 01, 2013, 08:28:20 PM

Title: USFS access to windy ridge
Post by: SGM R on October 01, 2013, 08:28:20 PM: Does anyone know if the Gov't shutdown has affected access to FS Road 99 (Windy Ridge). There are several special elk hunts scheduled for Upper Smith Creek and Pumice Plains over the next month. I have calls into USFS including e-mails, but I have heard nothing. They have general shutdown information on there website but nothing specific.

I appreciate any help,

SGM R
Title: Re: USFS access to windy ridge
Post by: SGM R on October 01, 2013, 08:37:46 PM: Thanks NS, I'm furloughed as well. I'm planning a drive up there on Thursday to check access gate on FS Road 99. Hopefully someone much closer already knows.

SGM R
Title: Re: USFS access to windy ridge
Post by: SGM R on October 01, 2013, 08:44:52 PM: Do you have any problems with the Hwy 12 mud slide and your hunting area?
Title: Re: USFS access to windy ridge
Post by: spotter26 on October 01, 2013, 09:16:38 PM: hope this helps off the usfs website:

Mount Margaret Backcountry Update
Mount Margaret Backcountry Conditions
October 1, 2013
Due to the government furlough permits for the Mount Margaret Backcountry will not be issued until further notice. Hikers who already possess a permit are invited to continue their trip.
Road and Trail Access Information
Johnston Ridge Observatory is currently closed due to governement furlough. Forest Roads 99, 25 and 26 are open.
Due to seasonal weather changes hikers should be prepared for sudden changes in weather and terrain conditions.
Whittier Ridge Trail #214, Due to steep and uneven terrain this trail is recommended only for the very experinced hiker.
Trails in the Mount Margaret Backcountry are rugged, and infrequently maintained. In addition to patchy snow, expect trees across the trails, uneven footing and small washouts.
Hikers may encounter wildlife in the Mount Margaret Backcountry, please respect and keep your distance.
Hikers may also encounter hunters during late summer and falls seasons.
A Mount Margaret Backcountry Permit is required for camping in the Mount Margaret Backcountry. In addition each group visiting the backcountry must possess a valid Northwest Forest Pass, available at sporting goods stores and Forest Service offices throughout the Northwest. These permits are required year round.
Permits can only be obtained in advance from Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument Headquarters, Jonhston Ridge Observatory or Cowlitz Valley Ranger Station in person or by mail. Some camps fill quickly, so, if possible, obtain permits well in advance of your trip.
Camping is allowed only in designated campgrounds. There are eight different campgrounds located in MMBC. Dogs, bicycles, stock and fires are prohibited.
Title: Re: USFS access to windy ridge
Post by: SGM R on October 02, 2013, 04:25:50 PM: Great news, thank you.

SGM R
Title: Re: USFS access to windy ridge
Post by: Alpinegus on October 05, 2013, 06:24:48 AM: SGM R, Curious if you made it to Windy Ridge Thursday. What did you find for FR99 access? :dunno: