Owl Creek and Flint Creek Trail Systems on Bankhead National Forest Temporarily Closed

Owl Creek and Flint Creek Trail Systems on Bankhead National Forest Temporarily Closed to

Horse and Motorized Use 

 

(Double Springs, AL) March 3, 2015---- U.S. Forest Service officials have temporarily closed the Owl Creek and Flint Creek trail systems to horse and motorized use, effective March 3.  The unusual snow storm produced significant moisture when approximately 10 inches of snow fell on the trails.  Melting snow and recent rains have created saturated soils that are easily eroded. Both trails will remain open to hiking use.  As soon as conditions are sufficient to protect the trails, they will be opened to normal use.  Visitors can contact the Bankhead Ranger District for the current status. 

 According to Bankhead District Ranger Dave Casey, the soft trail conditions threaten the forest’s basic soil resource and can cause a hazard to riders in some places.  “We have recently invested substantial funds to improve the Owl Creek trail system and need sufficient time for the work to stabilize before horses and motorized equipment impact it,” said Casey. 

For more information about current trail and road conditions or closures contact the Bankhead District Office at 205-489-5111 or the “Know Before You Go” section at www.fs.usda.gov/alabama.