Bass Creek Recreation Area – Reopened!
The Lolo Peak Fire is still smoldering, but it is not expected to gain in acreage since the major weather change about two weeks ago. So, the Bitterroot National Forest has re-opened the Bass Creek Recreation Area at what was the south end of that forest fire.
Tod McKay of the Bitterroot National Forest said the Bass Creek Overlook Road #1136 remains closed to the public because of nearby hotspots and heavy equipment work to repair fire lines.
However, as of September 27, open to the public are: Charles Waters Memorial Campground, Larry Creek Group Site, the Picnic area, the non-motorized trails including Larry Creek trails and Bass Creek Trail #4. No fees or services at the campgrounds and sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Nearby, the Sweeney Creek Trail #393 has also been re-opened.
The public is warned of hazards in burned areas such as standing dead trees and snags that may break at any time and underground root systems that have burned, leaving obscured holes. Be careful. Don't camp next to burned trees.
For more information call the Stevensville Ranger Station at (406) 777-5461.