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Big Game Hunting => Elk Hunting => Topic started by: RightPlace-RightTime on July 15, 2011, 02:19:39 AM


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Title: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: RightPlace-RightTime on July 15, 2011, 02:19:39 AM
I was talking to a buddy that was in the area scouting.  He had told me that Rock creek road and Gold creek roads are washed out just up from 410 and that they dont plan of repairing them before the season.  Anyone else have any truth to that?  If its true, A heads up to you.  Might have to get in the back way.
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: Black Ram on July 15, 2011, 04:26:49 AM
i have a cabin right there at goldcreek the fs says they are not ever going to reopen goldcreek to much damage. walk the road from the hwy its about amile or so up the road you wont believe the damage
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: Skyvalhunter on July 15, 2011, 05:52:32 AM
If you dispprove of the decision not to open the road write the district ranger and voice your concern. Not that it helps alot but every little input doesn't fall on deaf ears.
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: wall of wood camp on July 15, 2011, 09:42:55 AM
This is true.  I talked to the forest circus ranger while i was out scouting the area and he confirmed that the funding is not there and they would be searching for grants to fix the roads but not this year as funding will not be secured there are a few other roads affected by these same closures like Milk Lake road and a few others i can't remember the numbers.  Darn mother nature anyway
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: yakimarcher on July 15, 2011, 11:44:35 AM
sounds like a good area to mountain bike into and get away from the crowds
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: dreamingbig on July 15, 2011, 11:51:03 AM
They really won't allow mountain bikes?   :dunno:
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: NRA4LIFE on July 15, 2011, 12:06:41 PM
Does anyone know where the washout is on the Rock Creek Road or where it is barricaded?
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: FWilliams on July 15, 2011, 12:51:08 PM
according to the naches ranger station .3 miles up from highway 410 which should put it just passed those houses,   prolly the creek there at the sno park?
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: Special T on July 15, 2011, 12:57:30 PM
NS why the wheel rule? i can understand motor vehicles but bikes? do you have any insight as to this Bass achwards rule?
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: NRA4LIFE on July 15, 2011, 01:19:34 PM
Holy crap.  If it's washed out at that little creek then I can't imagine what it looks like up at the 6-ish and 8-ish mile markers.  There could be a couple hundred feet of road missing. Oh dear lord.
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: colockumelk on July 15, 2011, 01:43:06 PM
From what I can gather from a bunch of posts there is ALOT maybe even a record amount of washouts.  From what I've heard the Taneum road and the roads that lead up to Buck Meadows, Lost Lake and Quartz Mountain are all washed out (can't remember the roads name  :bash:  )  Sounds like that area is for all intents and purposes a Wilderness Area.  Same thing goes for the Gold Creek Road and Rock Creek Road.  Another Wilderness area.  And from what I understand the road leading up the Little Rattlesnake is also washed out.  AKA another Wilderness area. 

I am all for some road closure (Tiny spurs that lead nowhere sort of like veins)  but I hate to see these main roads closed off.  Its never good for these arteries to be closed off like this.  I really feel for the guys that have hunted these areas for 30-40 years.  Alot of traditions are going to be lost this year.  Especially for the old timers and the disabled that can't walk in 5 miles to still access their old hunting grounds.  My heart goes out to alot of people this year.  Hopefully our state can scrounge up some funds to repair them or maybe some private guys with equipment will donate their time and gear to reopen them.  I'm sure some people will quit hunting this year because of this which is EXTREMELY unfortunate.  This is truly a bad situation.
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: rtspring on July 15, 2011, 02:40:15 PM
Talk about bad news,

I agree this will cause lots of issues with people not being able to get the their normal spots. But for the guys that hunt up there, I am sure they know the back ways in to Rock Creek and Gold Creek. You would still be able to come up the 1701 and get there from the top.

On the other hand maybe it will cut down on the traffic in these areas and provide some great hunting for those that are willing to put the miles in..

I for one know Rock Creek was a great deer hunting spot a few years back.
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: asl20bball on July 15, 2011, 03:30:53 PM
Excuse my ignorance here....where exactly are these roads? Are they up a major FS road system (70, 72, ect?) or separate roads directly off hwy 410? If off hwy 410 between Enumclaw-Greenwater, or Greenwater-Crystal?
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: Curly on July 15, 2011, 03:45:12 PM
The roads are south a ways on 410 from Whistlin Jacks.
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: unluckyjohn on July 15, 2011, 04:22:51 PM
so the 1701 rd is still open? I thought someone told me it was also closed.
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: yakimarcher on July 15, 2011, 04:24:41 PM
that sucks i wanted to check out quartz mt and dry meadow area
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: PAW66 on July 15, 2011, 04:41:03 PM
I just came back for the Nile area and they have closed roads up there..The culvert on the 1601 road, at the nile, is washed out and one side of the culvert is caved in. The 1605 road is closed with three washout areas. Talked to one of the Game people and she said the same as already stated, are not going to fix due to lack of funds. They have put in for some flood relief money.
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: stickinmaster on July 15, 2011, 04:48:34 PM
Wow, maybe just maybe we will get lcuky enough to have them start charging us an annual fee for colvert and road rapair.
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: blu65ss on July 19, 2011, 11:54:06 PM
Looks like it may be a little quieter up there this year.......
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: Elk whack master on July 20, 2011, 01:11:32 AM
Wheres everyone gonna set up camp 3 weeks befor the season starts? :dunno: 410 will be one big shanty town with tents, motorhomes and campers on the shoulders. It will be called  "Camo fest" :chuckle:
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: Skyvalhunter on July 20, 2011, 05:25:26 AM
This things have a way of getting fixed if enough people complain!!
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: boneaddict on July 20, 2011, 05:32:27 AM
Sent you a pm Sky about some valley closures. 
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: dreamingbig on July 20, 2011, 05:54:47 AM
The forest service has been pretty quiet on these issues.  How much money do they need, is there anything that can be done to raise donations to get some of the smaller problems fixed?  Putting up some barricades and then not saying much seems incomplete.
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: D-Rock425 on July 20, 2011, 06:48:34 AM
I want to go to camo fest.
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: brianmtsinc on July 20, 2011, 07:14:48 AM
Do you guys think they will really ticket someone for riding a mountain bike on these roads?  :dunno:   :bash:
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: dreamingbig on July 20, 2011, 11:16:00 AM
I would guess not but outside of the Tieton Road (shown above) it isn't very clear.
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: gasman on July 20, 2011, 03:31:53 PM
With Milk creek rd closed, it should be hot up top durring early archery season.

Only way in is by quad or 4x4  :IBCOOL: :IBCOOL: :IBCOOL: :IBCOOL: :IBCOOL:

To bad I got a Obserbatory bull tag, Or I wouls set up camp up there  :chuckle: :chuckle: :chuckle:
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: SniperDanWA on July 20, 2011, 05:19:54 PM
so the 1701 rd is still open? I thought someone told me it was also closed.

Was on 1701 this past Sunday from 410 to Barber Springs Road.  Only one small washout, nothing bad.  Lots of jeeps up there this weekend tearing up the hills.
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: brianb231 on July 20, 2011, 09:14:31 PM
Does anyone know where you can view a map of these jeep roads and trails they are talking about in the closures? I have googled them and looked and looked and I cant find a map that shows these trails anywhere?

Anybody know?

THanks
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: SniperDanWA on July 20, 2011, 09:42:57 PM
Does anyone know where you can view a map of these jeep roads and trails they are talking about in the closures? I have googled them and looked and looked and I cant find a map that shows these trails anywhere?

Anybody know?

THanks

I use an app on the iPad, called Maps.  It is using Google, but it drills down great and has all of the roads labeled.  I know it is also available on the iPhone.  The other option is to use Google Earth.  I found it less helpful, but it did have roads marked.
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: Gamblin Guy on July 20, 2011, 10:07:33 PM
This should get you started....

http://www.fs.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsinternet/ (http://www.fs.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsinternet/)!ut/p/c5/04_SB8K8xLLM9MSSzPy8xBz9CP0os3gjAwhwtDDw9_AI8zPyhQoYAOUjMeXDfODy-HWHg-zDrx8kb4ADOBro-3nk56bqF-RGGGSZOCoCAPi8eX8!/dl3/d3/L2dJQSEvUUt3QS9ZQnZ3LzZfMjAwMDAwMDBBODBPSEhWTjJNMDAwMDAwMDA!/?navtype=BROWSEBYSUBJECT&cid=fsbdev3_053623&navid=091000000000000&pnavid=&ss=110617&position=Not Yet Determined.Html&ttype=detail&pname=Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest- Home

Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: rtspring on July 20, 2011, 10:35:54 PM
I hope this word gets out to more than just us here at HUNT -WA. This road closure area is gonna be one hell of a mess when all these hunters show up and the roads are closed. These are not short little roads, major roads with lots of camps off them and the spur roads from them...

I wonder just how many people will not come up just because of the road mess..  Bring your camera's fella it gonna get down right funny up there, from the 410 side anyways...........
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: brianb231 on July 21, 2011, 04:36:03 PM
My Partner just got back from over there today and they have posted the road closure information at the road closures themselves.
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: crazyantler on July 21, 2011, 08:46:09 PM
Well sounds like things will be a bit different this year.  Maybe only the branch bull tag holders will show up and the special hunt tags will be special like the old days with just a handful of guys running around.  Now I say that with a little smile since I am holding one of those tags.  But seriously. I hope everyone is able to carry on their hunting traditions despite the circumstances this year.
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: luvtohnt on July 21, 2011, 09:24:12 PM
Gasman, there is a rather large portion of 340 closed to all motorized access (there is nosearch and rescue if you get hurt or lost in there) and the only way in to some of the upper Manastash area is via 410. I can get you more info if you would like, since I can not seem to find it on their site.

There are a lot of things happening in the forest this year that is making things difficult. Snow, excessive blow downs, flooding, continual rain. All I can say is everyone needs to be extra careful this year while out and about in the forests.

Brandon
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: gasman on July 21, 2011, 09:31:27 PM
Luvtohnt,
I know the jeep trails tha lead back from Bald Mt to Quartz Mt. and I am confident on them with my jeep or quad  :tup:

As for no search and rescue, just let em lie. I will be more happy back there if some thing goes wrong then having to come home.

Besides, who is going to cal search and rescue  :dunno: Not me.........

If you think I am full of BS, ask huntlakewood or Rocky  :hello:
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: boneaddict on July 22, 2011, 06:14:41 AM
Where is Quartze washed out at?
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: Instinct on July 22, 2011, 08:06:17 PM
With Milk creek rd closed, it should be hot up top durring early archery season.

Only way in is by quad or 4x4  :IBCOOL: :IBCOOL: :IBCOOL: :IBCOOL: :IBCOOL:

To bad I got a Obserbatory bull tag, Or I wouls set up camp up there  :chuckle: :chuckle: :chuckle:

U know ya wanna give me barbie since im gonna be up in there  :chuckle:
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: CedarPants on July 22, 2011, 10:05:28 PM
so the 1701 rd is still open? I thought someone told me it was also closed.

Was on 1701 this past Sunday from 410 to Barber Springs Road.  Only one small washout, nothing bad.  Lots of jeeps up there this weekend tearing up the hills.

Is this the only way into the Barber Springs area now?  Buddy of mine heading to the west side today took a quick detour for a short scout and Manastash road was closed.  I plan on heading over to scout next weekend and am wondering if I'm gonna have to cut down to Yakima then up 410 to the 1701, as it sounds like there may be no way in out of Ellensburg.
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: christopheri on July 23, 2011, 09:53:46 AM
With Milk creek rd closed, it should be hot up top durring early archery season.

Only way in is by quad or 4x4  :IBCOOL: :IBCOOL: :IBCOOL: :IBCOOL: :IBCOOL:

To bad I got a Obserbatory bull tag, Or I wouls set up camp up there  :chuckle: :chuckle: :chuckle:

In the spirit of Hunting Washington forum members helping other members I would be happy to trade you my over the counter tag for you Obserdatory bull tag so you can set up camp at Mill creek. No need to thank me just pay it forward. :chuckle: :chuckle: :chuckle:
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: gasman on July 24, 2011, 05:33:51 PM
With Milk creek rd closed, it should be hot up top durring early archery season.

Only way in is by quad or 4x4  :IBCOOL: :IBCOOL: :IBCOOL: :IBCOOL: :IBCOOL:

To bad I got a Obserbatory bull tag, Or I wouls set up camp up there  :chuckle: :chuckle: :chuckle:

In the spirit of Hunting Washington forum members helping other members I would be happy to trade you my over the counter tag for you Obserdatory bull tag so you can set up camp at Mill creek. No need to thank me just pay it forward. :chuckle: :chuckle: :chuckle:

Thast a good one  :chuckle: :chuckle: :chuckle: :chuckle:

As for Barber Springs. You can still access it through Cascade Park. (Wenas)
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: Elkaholic daWg on July 25, 2011, 08:46:26 AM
I hope this word gets out to more than just us here at HUNT -WA. This road closure area is gonna be one hell of a mess when all these hunters show up and the roads are closed. These are not short little roads, major roads with lots of camps off them and the spur roads from them...

I wonder just how many people will not come up just because of the road mess..  Bring your camera's fella it gonna get down right funny up there, from the 410 side anyways...........


 Seeing all the lightning strikes throughout that whole area this morning, I would say that  the FS should rethink their choice to not fix the roads. Let one or two big fires happen in the area  and then what? What would the dollar loss and expense for that be?  then they would loose time getting equipment in place to make roads passable cusing how much more damage?
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: boneaddict on July 25, 2011, 12:35:16 PM
Its under a different allocation for federal dollars.   Sort of like welfare and medical for illegal immagrants.  Its called ABC lightning.   "Limitless" funds.   A nice lightning strike/fire would actually be a good way to get the road fixed.
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: Curly on July 25, 2011, 12:41:34 PM
Isn't it the USFS policy now to "let it burn" regarding fires................ :dunno:
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: dreamingbig on July 25, 2011, 12:47:13 PM
A big fire and the road would be fixed.  However you wouldn't be allowed in until the fire was put out.
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: Instinct on July 25, 2011, 01:29:38 PM
Bonfire, gas, and fireworks anyone  :chuckle: nnaw jp but its sad that the forestry has to think in those terms
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: PlateauNDN on July 25, 2011, 04:34:42 PM
so the 1701 rd is still open? I thought someone told me it was also closed.

Was on 1701 this past Sunday from 410 to Barber Springs Road.  Only one small washout, nothing bad.  Lots of jeeps up there this weekend tearing up the hills.

Is this the only way into the Barber Springs area now?  Buddy of mine heading to the west side today took a quick detour for a short scout and Manastash road was closed.  I plan on heading over to scout next weekend and am wondering if I'm gonna have to cut down to Yakima then up 410 to the 1701, as it sounds like there may be no way in out of Ellensburg.

Head south from E-burg towards the Wenas and turn north onto the Observatory Rd and head west from there til you get to the mud flats rd and head west from there or you can stay on the observatory rd until you get near it then break off and head west from there and you will eventually hit barber springs leading to the 410. 
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: CedarPants on July 25, 2011, 05:26:14 PM
Thanks Plateau!
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: boneaddict on July 25, 2011, 05:28:13 PM
Let it burn only stands for Wilderness.  Anything outside of wilderness still gets attention.
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: gasman on July 25, 2011, 06:10:17 PM
Let it burn only stands for Wilderness.  Anything outside of wilderness still gets attention.

And National Parks. Like Mt Rainier and Yellowstone NP.
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: boneaddict on July 25, 2011, 06:11:00 PM
correct.
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: Nilehunter on July 25, 2011, 07:50:14 PM
I just came back for the Nile area and they have closed roads up there..The culvert on the 1601 road, at the nile, is washed out and one side of the culvert is caved in. The 1605 road is closed with three washout areas. Talked to one of the Game people and she said the same as already stated, are not going to fix due to lack of funds. They have put in for some flood relief money.

Two weeks ago, the wife and I walked the 1605 all the way down to the creek and there was only one wash out.  I could have gotten past it in my minni van.  So I do not get why its closed.  This last weekend the closed road sign was moved to the side, wishfull thinking had me hopeing the road was being worked on.  If not I'll get in there from the back side come season.
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: sled on July 25, 2011, 09:08:12 PM
  ALL BULLS#$@#T!!!!!!!!!
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: Smokey Bear on July 30, 2011, 01:22:22 PM
OK guys, maybe a stupid question but when it says "closed to all traffic" does that mean you can't even hike passed the closure????  I have a bull tag for Peaches and would love to get up into the Milk Creek area??  I am going over Tuesday and Wednesday to scout.  It will be temtping to not take my quad up into Milk Creek from Little Naches.
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: rtspring on July 30, 2011, 05:38:23 PM
As bad as this may seem at first. I hope the animals in this area gain from it.  I know these are some peoples favorite hunting grounds but if it helps the deer populations come back I am all for it..

there is a road in between milk creek and gold creek they closed back in the 90's. It was a highway for vehicles back in the day. Now people ride horses up in there and see lots of game....


Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: colockumelk on July 30, 2011, 07:27:32 PM
As bad as this may seem at first. I hope the animals in this area gain from it.  I know these are some peoples favorite hunting grounds but if it helps the deer populations come back I am all for it..

there is a road in between milk creek and gold creek they closed back in the 90's. It was a highway for vehicles back in the day. Now people ride horses up in there and see lots of game....

I completely agree. While this closure sucks for many I try to look at the bright side of things inall negative events.  Hopefully the animal numbers and bull:cow,  buck:doe ratio gets alot better because of this. Also the best part is that this will put a major dent in poaching. Thats what Im happiest about.
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: gasman on July 30, 2011, 11:08:37 PM
there are still ways to access this area. you just need to know where and be willing to burn some boot leather if you don't have a capable 4x4.
Th snowmobile trail from the LN area is one way to get in to it and the 4x4 trail from Lilly pond is another......

And there is still others if you know where you are goung and have spent any time exploring up there.......
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: SniperDanWA on July 30, 2011, 11:39:33 PM
I just returned from Umtanum and Manastash.  Drove in from 410 side on 1701, Maloy RD, Barber Springs, Manastash Ridge, Hudson, Mitchell, NF 31, Manastash, etc.  Made it to within 6-8 miles of Ellensburg and the road was gated shut from that direction.  The road was washed out but passable.  Walked around to see if I could bypass gate, but FS pushed rock and log against passable routes.  Turned around and went West on Manastash to NF 3104 and washed out again.  Thought about Kloss RD, but saw a 5x7 signed posted by FS that it was washed out 3 miles in.  New no other route out, so backtracked up to 1701 to get out.  Wasn't too bad in most places.  Can't recall right now if it was Barber Springs or Manastash Ridge/Hudson, but one had a pretty gnarly washout that I did not attempt with the Suburban.  Took some pretty good dips today and glassed the valleys, hills, etc. No elk, three deer, lots of sheep and some cows (domestic), and a bunch of wood cutters.  After I got on 410, I saw several cows, spikes, a 4 by bull and some more deer.  Everything working it's way to the water for the night drink.  Good day though.
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: Smokey Bear on August 01, 2011, 12:07:37 PM
I know many ways to access the closed road areas, but once you are back there with a quad or a bike, you are illegal.  For instance, the Milk Creek road is closed for the entire length of it.  I suppose you could quad up to the closed road, then camp off the trail somewhere.  But the minute you start using the road you are illegal.  The LE Rangers up there are citing everyone, or so I've heard.  After a busy Labor Day Weekend they won't be ready to give a break because you are probably the 200th violator they have encountered!  Believe me, if you can get up to or around a road closure, so can they. 

I just hope Lttle Naches isn't worse of a zoo than last season.

 :dunno:
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: dreamingbig on August 02, 2011, 07:52:27 AM
I will say it again.  Closing these roads to man powered mountain bikes is absurd.  Are they really going to issue a ticket for a mountain bike?  What risk or liability is there?
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: bobcat on August 02, 2011, 08:02:47 AM
Didn't someone post that the roads were even closed to walking?    :dunno:    :bash:
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: longashes on August 02, 2011, 08:29:18 AM
Last Friday I was up on top above Barber Springs, there where 1/2 dozen or so rigs up there. I saw four different camp sites set up and not one road closed sign. I didn't go over the top and drive out Manashtash so I never saw those closures. So for the most part there were no indications of closures when going in through the open roads still open.
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: CedarPants on August 02, 2011, 08:35:47 AM
Was there last weekend as well.  Came out of Selah up N. Wenas then up a bit east of Barber Springs all around the Observatory and Mud Flats areas, then looped back around and down to Wenas.  Never saw one closure.  I know Manastash west out of Ellensburg is closed though, so it's all rather confusing as to what is closed and what isn't.  We didn't really take any side routes or odd trails to get where we were, so from my perspective it was all open
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: RightPlace-RightTime on August 10, 2011, 05:11:27 AM
I hunt up spring creek, The road that goes up the mountain and you can look down at whistlin jacks.  Anyone know how to access that road from any other rd?  I have a cow tag and am unsure how to get there is possible.
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: brianmtsinc on August 10, 2011, 06:44:10 AM
Spring Creek is still open - so you are good to go.
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: gasman on August 11, 2011, 08:23:52 PM
Talked with the OHV ranger last weekend and he informed me that the work will not start until next summer  :bash:

They are also patrolling the closed areas on motorcycles and are fining anyone that even walks back behind the barriers.
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: Instinct on August 11, 2011, 08:50:59 PM
Talked with the OHV ranger last weekend and he informed me that the work will not start until next summer  :bash:

They are also patrolling the closed areas on motorcycles and are fining anyone that even walks back behind the barriers.

So what if u just stumble upon the closed areas when hunting by foot they can still give u a ticket?
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: SemperFidelis97 on August 11, 2011, 08:55:50 PM
Talked with the OHV ranger last weekend and he informed me that the work will not start until next summer  :bash:

They are also patrolling the closed areas on motorcycles and are fining anyone that even walks back behind the barriers.

I can see fines for going around the barriers in a vehicle, but on foot that is some serious crap there what the hell are you going to damage with a set of boots really.  I dont even hunt there, and that pisses me off seems to me that all these closed roads would make for some great hunting for those who really want to put some miles on their boots guess the ranger district doesnt agree.  Maybe someone should remind them they are payed by the very people they are harassing back there.
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: JKEEN33 on August 11, 2011, 08:56:20 PM
Talked with the OHV ranger last weekend and he informed me that the work will not start until next summer  :bash:

They are also patrolling the closed areas on motorcycles and are fining anyone that even walks back behind the barriers.

So what if u just stumble upon the closed areas when hunting by foot they can still give u a ticket?

I find it hard to believe that they can fine you for walking in. It's seems that would be an easy one to beat. It's public land. I haven't been out yet. Do the signs say No Trespassing or Road closed?
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: jstone on August 11, 2011, 09:50:34 PM
Ya and we know how people will always try to get free money. we will just have to work a little harder for our elk this year. With the wet spring and the roads being closed going to be a good year. :tup:
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: RightPlace-RightTime on August 11, 2011, 10:43:25 PM
So can anyone else confirm spring creek rd is open. The road goes up the mtn and you can see whistlin jacks as you go up.  Thanks
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: gasman on August 12, 2011, 04:59:32 AM
So can anyone else confirm spring creek rd is open. The road goes up the mtn and you can see whistlin jacks as you go up.  Thanks

Yeah, its open......





And to really piss you off.
The wash outs aren't as bad as hey make them seem. There is enough room to fit a jeep or a narrower size vehicle around them, a full size truck could probably squeeze through but it would be a little hairy.
Merrick told me that the only reason it is closed is because they cant get Search and Rescue up there is some thinghappens but we all know that is BS and its politics, pure BS politics....( he don't understand the closure also  :dunno:)
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: brianmtsinc on August 12, 2011, 06:27:10 AM

The signs say roads closed to all wheels and foot traffic.  that means you cannot legally be in the road, but you can walk in the ditches. They close it this way because if anyone gets hurt by the washouts, the forest service can say they closed the road.  It is all about legal issues.

Forgive the following rant but this pisses me off!  For the record, I hunt by foot and mountain bike, and these roads being closed is a good thing for me this year.  I am happy about that for myself but there are many others not as able or simply choose to hunt other ways. 

The thought that they are patrolling this area AND writing tickets to people WALKING in Pisses me off!! :bash: :bash:
They work for us!  This is out of control government :bash: 

If it is all about "legal issues" how about they simply post a sign that says "Road Closed -  Enter at your own Risk"  ??  This is another "freedom" being taken away by a government that thinks they know better than the citizens they are suppose to serve.   :bash:

Shame on those that set this policy and on any warden or officer that would enforce it.....
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: trophyhunt on August 12, 2011, 06:37:37 AM
If a forest service worker asks me for ID and my truck isn't anywhere around and I'm walking up the road in the mountains, I'm telling him to screw off.  He's not a law enforcement officer, I understand if your at camp and have a fire or littering and he writes a citation but up in the hills and he stops me for my ID!!! I just don't understand what the hell is wrong with this country, Damn liberals.  Just venting
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: colockumelk on August 12, 2011, 09:29:34 AM
 :yeah:

I would definately tell them to pound sand and keep on walking. What are they gonna do?   :cryriver:
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: hunterdan on August 14, 2011, 08:55:10 AM
When I passed Milk Creek last weekend the sign just said road closed due to flood damage. I didn't stop, but in passing I did not notice any sign saying no wheeled or foot traffic. There was no getting around the barrier at the highway by a vehicle. But again, I did not see anything that made me think you could not walk back from there. I went up spring creek and know of a 4x trail down to the 1707?. There was no signage at the top of it. My truck is too large to go down the trail, but I walked it a way with no signage that way. I have also been to the backside of the closure on Pine creek in the past. No illegalities there, so whats the difference between being on pine creek and coming in to milk creek from one of the 4x trails?
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: Curly on August 14, 2011, 12:05:44 PM
The forest Service just re wrote the closure order because people were giving hell to them.  Now it is roads closed to all motorized vehicles. Foot traffic and mountain bikes are now OK.

Awesome.  That's good news!  :tup: And how it should be.
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: brianmtsinc on August 15, 2011, 10:35:36 AM
The forest Service just re wrote the closure order because people were giving hell to them.  Now it is roads closed to all motorized vehicles. Foot traffic and mountain bikes are now OK.


 :IBCOOL:
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: Instinct on August 15, 2011, 10:46:40 AM
Bout fricken time
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: bigtex on August 22, 2011, 09:28:41 PM
If a forest service worker asks me for ID and my truck isn't anywhere around and I'm walking up the road in the mountains, I'm telling him to screw off.  He's not a law enforcement officer, I understand if your at camp and have a fire or littering and he writes a citation but up in the hills and he stops me for my ID!!! I just don't understand what the hell is wrong with this country, Damn liberals.  Just venting

FYI Trohphyhunt

The USFS has two forms of enforcement.
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: brianmtsinc on August 29, 2011, 12:29:14 PM
I just came back from doing some scouting and ran into the ORV Ranger while driving on what I believed to be a jeep road from Spring creek over to Pine creek.  The road we were on is a road we have used MANY times over the years, however he informed us that its is actually a snowmobile road and we were on it illegally.   :bash: 

This guy (not exactly sure of his name so I won't post it) went on to tell us that the Milk and Pine creek drainages are getting hammered by hunters thinking that because it is a closed road system, and they know a way in via a jeep road, they will have a great area to themselves.  He said there is NO  legal way to access either drainage other than by foot or mountain bike, and that he has been assigned daily to those 2 road systems until sometime in November.   :dunno: 

What pisses me off about this is not the closure, but that instead of placing signs on these CLEARLY well traveled jeep roads (they can call them a snowmobile road all they want, but jeeps run them ALL the time!!) The US forest service, with all of it's extra money, has decided to pay this guys salary and operating expenses, in hopes of getting it returned (plus some) in tickets!!  He stated that " The tickets range from $125 - $175 depending  on the guys attitude that I stop".   :dunno:

He was very arrogant and seemed as though he could not wait to start writting the tickets.  He let us go only because he pulled up to us as we were picking up a bunch of trash someone had left in the middle of the road.  Otherwise we would have been ticketed for driving a road we believed was open. 

I KNOW it is my responsibility to know the laws and to only travel on legal roads, and I accept my responsibility here.  But who are the decision makers that decided to take away from our supposedly stretched too thin forest service workers, to patrol this area on a daily basis, but would not spend a hundred bucks and post the entry points to at least keep honest people out?   :bash: :bash:
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: brianb231 on August 29, 2011, 12:49:43 PM
 :yeah:

I was told the same thing as I was stopped. They said tickets will be written and it will be patrolled daily!

I was surpised by this as I knew a way in there and I thought Pine was not part of the restricted area.

Guess I was wrong. Be advised or bring your checkbook I guess.

Looks like I will be hiking in a ways.....

Good Luck
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: gasman on August 29, 2011, 03:14:06 PM
If it was the guy in the OHv Jeep, his name is Merrick. i have talked to him a few times and his main goal is to keep the illegal acivity to a minimal and catch those law breakers breaking the rules, especially  back on the jeep trails. The jeep trails need to be patrolled to keep people from ruening what we have.

Yes, the trail you were on is a snowmobile trail, not a jeep or quad trail. I have also been on it to take the short cut to Whistling Jacks.

As much as you don't like him being there, he is needed to patrol the areas up there, and he only works the weekends, not 7 days a week  ;) But the sherrif will be patroling the roads on motorcycles.

As far as no legal way in there, there is two jeep trils that take you to the top area around Milk Lake, and there is nothing they can do if you are in there. Only the road is closed to vehicle traffic, not the jeep trails  ;)
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: brianb231 on August 30, 2011, 08:23:02 AM
You ran into the former chinook pass sheriff. he retired and now is one of the 2 OHV rangers.  Yes he knows what he is talking about. You broke the law. deal with it. they are going to write a closure area on all the jeep and snowmobile trails FYI. there is at least 2 people on 7 days a week. It is not the forest services fault for not allowing people in and writing tickets. it is what the laws and the constitutions say.

This is just a guess, but you must be either the new sheriff or the number 2 OHV guy??? LOL  Just playin... But I just hope they do patrol the hell out of it becuase when I hike my arse off and ride my mountain bike up that mountain the last thing I want to see is 6 rigs at the top!

So I am all for it at this point.

Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: DIYARCHERYJUNKIE on August 30, 2011, 03:54:39 PM
i think naches sportsman just doesnt want people to ride there bikes in or there jeeps or there feet jeez buddy there are alot of woods out there for us all to share>  I'll be riding my mountain bike into all of these areas and I aint buying a discovery pass either.  dnr can eat it!
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: Instinct on August 30, 2011, 04:58:18 PM
Na diyarchery naches knows  those roads hes always on top wth whats goin on wth the forest dept. Always good idea to pick up a green trail map and see where ur at to make sure u dont get fisted by the man.
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: brianmtsinc on August 31, 2011, 07:25:21 AM
Gasman - I asked him 3 separate times, "SO, there is NO WAY to access Milk or Pine Creek via the road system or any jeep road" his response each time was "No way.  If you are on any of the roads back there, you are breaking the law and will be ticketed"  Any insight can share? :dunno:

Naches sportsman -  As I clearly stated - I know it is my responsibility to know the law and where I can and can't go.  That was not my point.  My point is, that I feel this is simply a way to ticket hunters and bring in more revenue.  Hell, I'd be happy to go to kinkos and print up 4 signs and post them on each snowmobile trail to save others from getting fined - but my guess is that is probably against the law too. :dunno:

My  :twocents: - patrol the area. Enforce the law.  But do your best to make sure honest people are aware they are entering a closed area. 
Like I said - that is just my  :twocents:
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: bobcat on August 31, 2011, 07:27:26 AM
Of course if they put up signs, people would just tear them down. That's why they normally have a map that shows which roads are open and which ones are closed.
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: DIYARCHERYJUNKIE on August 31, 2011, 10:09:57 AM
Na diyarchery naches knows  those roads hes always on top wth whats goin on wth the forest dept. Always good idea to pick up a green trail map and see where ur at to make sure u dont get fisted by the man.

where can i call to get info on biking in or walking in?  a red dot road closure would mean no driving in.  When i was there three years ago they had the red dot green dot system going.  That says nothing about foot traffic or bike traffic.
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: bobcat on August 31, 2011, 10:13:39 AM
There are only green dots, no red dots. Unless things have recently changed. But I have never heard of red dots. In the green dot road management areas, if a road does not have a green dot, then it is not open for motorized traffic.
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: DIYARCHERYJUNKIE on August 31, 2011, 10:17:40 AM
but you can walk or bike into theses areas?
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: Instinct on August 31, 2011, 10:53:38 AM
Yup, u can call up the naches ranger station for further info/questions if needed. Too lazy to search for the number for ya
Title: Re: 410 hwy. Gold ck and Rock creek roads washed out and wont be fixed
Post by: 6x6in6 on August 31, 2011, 11:12:32 AM
but you can walk or bike into theses areas?
Yes, unless it's posted otherwise.
Green dot/no green dot only applies to motorized vehicles.
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