Sonora, CA…Here are a few Frequently Asked Questions that we have been receiving at our Front Desks about the Forest Closure Order.

Question: Can I drive over Sonora Pass?
Answer: Yes! All the State Highways including, Hwy 120, 108 and 4 remain open, these highways are managed by Cal Trans.

Question: I have a recreational cabin on Forest Service land. May I visit it?
Answer: No. The regional order states that, “Recreation residence permit holders are not exempt from this Order.”

Question: Are State Parks and National Parks open?
Answer: Yes! Land managed by State Parks (except in the Tahoe basin), National Parks, Bureau of Land Management, Army Corps of Engineers, National Wildlife Refuges, Bureau of Reclamation and County / Regional Parks remain OPEN. But always check conditions with the specific park or land you want to visit before you hit the road.

Question: Can I go fishing in the creeks that run through the Stanislaus National Forest?
Answer: No. The regional order states that, “the following acts are prohibited on National Forest System lands within the Pacific Southwest Region 1. Going into or being upon National Forest System lands… 2. Being on a road within the National Forest… 3. Being on a trail within the National Forest….” Regional Order No. 21-07

Question: Can I acquire a Wilderness Permit and go backpacking in the Wilderness?
Answer: No. The Emigrant, Carson-Iceberg and Mokelumne Wilderness Areas are part of Stanislaus National Forest lands.

If you have more questions this weekend, call the Summit Ranger Station at 209-965-3434.

We hope you have a fun and safe Labor Day weekend!