Late snow melt presents forest challenges

 Warming temperatures and snow melt are contributing to increased water levels in rivers and lakes, and saturated soils across the Flathead National Forest, especially on roads and trails.

Forest officials urge all forest users to use caution when encountering deep snow, downed trees, blocked roads and trails, wet and muddy conditions, or high and fast-moving water.    

“We encourage all forest users to contact a local Forest Service office to obtain current information about road and trail conditions, access, and ideas for alternate travel routes,” said Denise Germann, the forest’s public affairs officer. “Recreationists on or near a river, stream or lake should use extreme caution as water levels may fluctuate quickly.”  

Road damage already is being discovered as access increases across the forest. Crews have been surveying areas to find problems and respond accordingly.  

The East-side Hungry Horse Reservoir Road 38 is open to Hoke Creek, about 38 miles south of U.S. 2. It is anticipated that the entire East-side Hungry Horse Road will be open today. The Spotted Bear Ranger Station plans to be open to the public on Monday.    

The Spotted Bear River Road 568 near the Spotted Bear Ranger Station is not expected to be open this weekend due to a mud slide. It is not known when the road will be opened.  

The Hay Creek Road 376 south of Polebridge and about 30 miles north of Columbia Falls is temporary closed due to a road slump. It is not known when the road will be opened.

The West-side Hungry Horse Reservoir Road 895 is open to snowmobile travel as conditions allow through May 31, or until work resumes on the repaving of the first 11 miles of the road.  

Throughout the summer, the road will be closed from the Hungry Horse Dam to the Lid Creek Campground.   

“We will continue to monitor across the forest, and we anticipate additional damage and challenges as the snowpack melts,” Germann said.

Anyone with information about road damage or other situations is asked to contact a local forest service office.  

For updated information on temporary road restrictions, campgrounds, and spring access on the Flathead National Forest, contact the Hungry Horse/Glacier View District at 387-3800; the Tally Lake District at 758-5204; the Swan Lake District at 837-7500; and the Spotted Bear District at 758-5376 or 387-3800.