Deschutes Natl. Forest to open Road 16 gate Friday

The Deschutes National Forest announced that it will open the gate Friday on Forest Road 16 next to Upper Three Creek Sno-Park for the season.

Access remains challenging, officials said, as the road is wide enough for two lane traffic until Park Meadows Trailhead, then narrows to one lane with limited turnouts for approximately one mile to the junction of Forest Road 370. Beyond that, vehicle travel not advised due to large snowdrifts over the remaining mile to Three Creek Lake.

As the warm weather continues to melt snow, access to this area will improve, the agency said.

“We appreciate the public’s caution when traveling on Forest Road 16 and remind visitors that if an area is blocked by snow, do not try to get through it with your vehicles as this can create resource damage,” the announcement said. Be prepared to park at Forest Road 370 junction and walk the approximately one mile to Three Creek Lake.

Remember to Know Before You Go when traveling on the forest. Understand the conditions of the area in which you are traveling, carry your 10 Essentials, be prepared for changing weather conditions and have an alternate plan for the day.