The Gifford Pinchot National Forest has reduced the closure area for the High Lava Fire in Skamania County, according to a Thursday news release from the U.S. Forest Service (USFS).
The fire, located about 11 miles northwest of Stabler, was 2,899 acres and 63% contained as of Thursday, according to USFS.
It was first reported on July 23 after lightning strikes.
“Thanks to efforts by firefighters, responders, and favorable weather, the fire has remained within established containment lines,” officials said in the release.
According to the release, trails and trailheads now open include: Siouxon, Lower Siouxon, Zigzag Lake, East Fork, Horseshoe Falls, Horseshoe Ridge, Huffman Peak and all the trails in the Trapper Creek Wilderness.
Officials said the Soda Peaks trail is now accessible from the Trapper Creek trailhead.
The West Crater trail, West Crater trailhead and the Soda Peaks trailhead remain closed, according to the release.
“The closure area is being reduced to sites where ongoing fire suppression, mop-up, and repair are occurring to protect public safety and to allow firefighters and heavy equipment to operate efficiently,” officials said in the release. “The closure will remain in effect until modified or rescinded.”
To view the complete closure order and map, visit https://tinyurl.com/5n7w2fya.
