Inyo National Forest Encourages Visitors to be Safe this Memorial Day Weekend

Memorial Day weekend kicks off the unofficial beginning of summer and the outdoor recreation season. For a full list of open areas and up-to-date information on recreation site status on the Inyo National Forest, visit the forest’s website.

The public should be aware that many of the forest roads, trails, and wilderness areas are not accessible due to wet, muddy, and snowy conditions, especially at higher elevations. No wilderness permits are being issued through the month of May, but day hiking is available from most trailheads. Check here for current conditions. The Inyo National Forest is in fire restrictions.

While many areas are open and available, most facilities and services, such as restrooms or garbage receptacles, will not be available. The forest is working with trail partners to address imminent hazards on trails and will be doing required maintenance only while we work through the risks associated with additional field work. The Forest Service is asking visitors to recreate locally and responsibly. This will help expand access to facilities, services and other opportunities. Visitors are asked to plan accordingly as certain services may still be unavailable.

“While we understand there may be some excitement from the public to return to beloved recreation areas, please continue to follow local, state, and federal guidelines on staying safe” says Tammy Randall-Parker, Forest Supervisor. “There is still work to be done – ensuring cleanliness of facilities, conducting proper maintenance, and assessing recreation areas for health and safety. We anticipate some area re-openings may not be quick or permanent.”

Recognizing that many Americans will head outdoors to visit their national forests and grasslands, the Forest Service’s priority remains on ensuring the safety for the public and our employees and volunteers.

Visitors are asked to stay as local as possible when choosing a site to visit and to pack out everything they bring, especially trash. Visitors are also urged to take the precautions recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) along with local health and safety guidance. For tips from the CDC on preventing illnesses like the coronavirus, go to: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/about/prevention.html.