Staircase Developed Area to Reopen July 8 After Year-Long Closure

PORT ANGELES, Wash. - Olympic National Park and Olympic National Forest will reopen the Staircase developed area and its access road, FS-24, on July 8. The area has been closed since the human-caused Bear Gulch Fire ignited in Olympic National Forest on July 6, 2025.

"Repair efforts of this scale require coordination with many partners, including Olympic National Forest and the Washington Department of Natural Resources," said Superintendent Sula Jacobs. "We appreciate everyone's support and teamwork as we work to restore this beloved corner of Olympic National Park, and we can't wait to welcome everyone back."

Beginning July 8, visitors can access the campground, ranger station, Rapids Loop Trail, and other developed facilities. On July 4, campground reservations will also reopen on Recreation.gov. Wilderness trails beyond the developed area will remain closed while crews complete hazard assessments and repair damaged backcountry infrastructure, including bridges and privies. Restoration work will continue throughout the summer, including trail stabilization, erosion control, culvert repairs, and vegetation management. Area closures may change as recovery efforts continue.

Visitors should use extreme caution when entering burned areas. Though risks are always present in wilderness exploration, fire impacts increase those risks. Burned landscapes may contain falling trees and branches, loose boulders, unstable ground, stump holes, landslides, and debris flows. Changing conditions such as wind, rain, or storms can rapidly trigger hazards. To reduce risks in burned areas and help them recover faster, visitors should:

Stay on open trails. Closed areas may contain unstable ground, damaged bridges, or hidden hazards. Respect closures to protect yourself and allow trail crews to safely complete repairs.

Beware falling trees and rolling rocks. Trees and branches can fall without warning, even on calm days. Stay alert for overhead hazards, avoid lingering beneath burned trees, watch for stump holes or unstable ground, and leave the area immediately if you hear cracking trees or moving rocks.

Drive carefully. Rocks, debris, or fallen trees may block roads at any time. Slow down, especially during wet or windy weather, and carry extra food and water in case travel is delayed.

Check the weather. Wind and storms can quickly increase hazards by bringing down trees or triggering flash floods, landslides, and debris flows. Avoid burned areas during severe weather and leave immediately if conditions worsen.

Help the forest recover. Burned landscapes are especially vulnerable to invasive species. Clean boots and gear before hiking to help protect recovering ecosystems.