TEMPORARY TRAIL CLOSURE TO RESTORE FOREST HEALTH
The Eastern Sierra Climate & Communities Resilience Project (ESCCRP) is a collaborative, landscape-scale effort led by the Whitebark Institute, the Inyo National Forest, and local partners. This long-term initiative aims to restore forest health, reduce the risk of catastrophic wildfires, and improve ecosystem resilience across 65,000 acres in the Eastern Sierra.
Work began in May 2025, and will run through November. These efforts will include mechanical thinning, hand thinning, and other restoration treatments focused on priority areas to enhance forest health and reduce wildfire risk. Due to the size and urgency of this project, temporary public access restrictions will be necessary at select roads, campgrounds, and trailheads during active operations.
Beginning October 1st, the Duck Pass Trailhead and Coldwater Campground will close- likely until the snow falls. Duck Pass closure dates are slated for October 1st- November 15th, and the campground will close for the season.
Why is this project necessary?
Over the past century, the suppression of naturally ignited, low to moderate severity fires has led to an overgrowth of trees in Sierra Nevada forests. Now, when wildfires ignite, they burn hotter, faster and with more devastating consequences to both people and the ecological health of the area. Overcrowded trees also facilitate the spread of harmful diseases, including bark beetle infestations.
Thank you for your patience while this work is being done!
About Mammoth Lakes Recreation
Formed in 2014, Mammoth Lakes Recreation’s mission is to deliver cutting edge sustainable recreation, mobility, and arts & culture opportunities and infrastructure for the benefit of the community and natural environment of Mammoth Lakes. For more information, go to www.mammothlakesrecreation.org.