HOODSPORT, Wash. — A 445-acre wildfire burning near Lake Cushman has triggered new road and trail closures in the southeastern Olympic Mountains, officials said Wednesday.
The Bear Gulch fire is burning on steep terrain along the lake’s northern shore and the slopes of Mount Rose. Hot, dry weather and dangerous terrain have complicated firefighting efforts and raised safety concerns.
The U.S. Forest Service has closed Forest Service Road 2419, including access to the Mount Ellinor trail, while heavy equipment is used to strengthen containment lines. In addition, NF Road 2400 (also known as FS-24, Road 119 and North Lake Cushman Road) is closed at mile marker 10.5 near North Mount Church Drive due to ongoing hazards from rolling debris and trees.
The closure of NF Road 2400 also blocks access to day-use areas, trailheads, and recreation sites beyond that point. Officials say other nearby recreation areas are under evaluation and may close depending on fire activity.
Campfires are currently restricted to established fire rings within Olympic National Park and Olympic National Forest.
The Bear Gulch fire, which began July 6 and is believed to be human caused, remains the only active wildfire in the region, according to the latest Department of Natural Resources wildfire map.