Two Bridges Close On The Naches Ranger District

Two popular bridges on Pleasant Valley Trail #999 have been closed due to structural damage associated with old timbers and recent flooding. The bridges cross over Pinus and Union Creeks.

“In affect what this closure does is restrict access along 6 miles of the trail which skirts State Route 410,” said trails coordinator Jeff Leisy. “Timber supports have weakened with age and combined with recent runoff has undercut support members creating a dangerous situation for users. For public safety and the safety of stock the decision to close the bridges was necessary”

Any immediate plan to replace the bridges is on hold until funding sources can be found. In the meantime alternate routes can be taken into the Wilderness that bypasses the closed bridges. Crow Lake Way Trail is one viable alternative to using the Pleasant Valley Trail to access the Wilderness or park at Wash Creek Trailhead and walk less than a ¼ mile up Fife’s Ridge Trail #954 to the 999 intersection.