USFS: Gates stay closed west of Bend for resource protection

Several gates west of Bend on the Deschutes National Forest will remain closed for resource protection until conditions improve, U.S. Forest Service officials said late last week.

The Bend-Fort Rock Ranger District will keep three gates closed to prohibit vehicle access west of Bend including the junction across from Widgi Creek golf course at Cascade Lakes Highway and Forest Road 4604400, the gate at the junction of Forest Road 4604 and 4610, and the gate just passed Phil’s Trailhead on Forest Road 4604.

These gates are put in place to prevent motorized travel in critical deer and elk winter habitat. Wildlife winter closures begin on December 1 and usually continue through March 31, but due to the recent snow storms and wet conditions outside of Bend, forest officials want to limit the potential for resource damage by keeping the gates closed, for now.

When the forest roads are clear of snow and dry, gates will open up for the season. The roads are open to bike and pedestrian use year-round, officials added.