Some trails reopen after Columbia Gorge wildfire

TROUTDALE, Ore. (AP) – Some more trails are reopening to the public for the first time after last summer’s devastating wildfire in the Columbia River Gorge.

Oregon Public Broadcasting reports Saturday that an area that includes Starvation Creek State Park is now accessible, giving public access once more to trails for Starvation Ridge, Mount Defiance and Warren Lake.

The fire late last summer scorched 75 square miles.

The teen who started the blaze pleaded guilty in February to reckless burning of public and private property and other charges and was sentenced to community service and probation.

A judge is currently reviewing requests for restitution from 11 different agencies that total nearly $37 million.

Many Columbia Gorge recreational spots remain closed, including popular hikes like Oneonta Gorge, Angel’s Rest and Larch Mountain.

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Information from: KOPB-FM, http://news.opb.org