Seasonal closure helps preserve mule deer habitat; protect trails

information released

The annual seasonal closure of the Wenatchee Foothills Trail System, north of 5th Street, is expected to begin December 2, 2024. These closures will likely extend from Dec. 2 to April 1, depending on weather and spring snowmelt conditions. The closures include: the Sage Hills trails and parking areas of Horse Lake, Day Drive, and Number One Canyon Road.

This seasonal closure is critical to preserving mule deer’s winter habitat and protecting the trails from erosion and damage that can occur during the wet late-fall and early-spring months. Mule deer face immense challenges in winter, often losing up to 30% of their body weight due to limited food and harsh conditions. Pregnant does and young fawns are especially vulnerable. Dogs—even on leash—and the presence of people can disturb the deer, causing them to waste valuable energy by fleeing.

The Chelan-Douglas Land Trust (CDLT), Chelan County PUD, and the City of Wenatchee work together each year to implement this closure. Chelan County PUD manages approximately 960 acres in the Sage Hills as part of its federal license to operate Rock Island Dam. CDLT and the City of Wenatchee also close access to trails on more than 2,200 acres of neighboring open space to provide expanded winter refuge for mule deer. Chelan County PUD is required to close the Home Water Preserve Property as a condition of the Secondary use Permit issued to the CDLT earlier this year.

While these areas are closed, winter recreationists are encouraged to explore alternative trails such as the Apple Capital Loop Trail, Saddle Rock Natural Area, Castle Rock Natural Area, and Jacobson Preserve. For those heading out, remember to keep dogs on leash and avoid areas with soft ground to minimize trail damage. The CDLT website has the latest information on all trail closures.

 About the Chelan-Douglas Land Trust

Founded in 1985, the Chelan-Douglas Land Trust protects land with high conservation and recreation value in North Central Washington. CDLT has protected forty miles of recreational trails and twenty-six thousand acres of forest, shrub steppe, wheat fields, and riparian landscapes across Chelan and Douglas counties. CDLT is a membership organization that relies upon the community’s support to continue to protect and care for the landscapes that make the Wenatchee Valley unique. Everyone is welcome on CDLT properties. For more information: www.cdlandtrust.org