These are general alerts/cautions or links to published alerts/projects that affect the drive to the trailhead, the trails / routes or the lakes themselves. Examples could be road construction projects on forest roads, campground issues/closures, trail closures or a result of my observations while hiking. Examples could be logging activity, road maintenance or significant trail blockages due to deadfall.
• Cedar Creek Logging Activity: In the past couple years there has been consistent logging activity up Cedar Creek heading to Cascade Pass (Missoula Lake). This will continue into 2026 with significant log truck and support vehicle traffic up Cedar Creek, over Miller Saddle and within 3-4 miles of Missoula Lake. In addition, there was an additional sale going on the Cedar Creek side of Freezeout Pass above the Gildersleeve Mine. There has been signage indicating logging activity the past couple years at the end of the pavement up Cedar Creek, but don't count on it. Take it a little slower, be aware of the traffic and take note of available turnouts.
• West Fork Fish Creek Bridge Replacement: The bridge across the West Fork of Fish Creek at the 3-mile mark from the Clearwater Crossing was scheduled to be replaced in 2025, but was delayed to 2026. This is the bridge by the swimming hole and campsite. The work would begin around July 15th and take up to a month, requiring hikers to use the horse crossing. Helicopters will be used to bring in materials and help set the bridge spans so the trail will probably experience some temporary closures during those times. I was told by the Ninemile R.D. to check back with them closer to the start date or when I would be hiking the trail during the operation. Here is the link to the project page: West Fork Fish Creek Trail Bridge Replacement
• Ward Creek Road Closure: The Ward Creek Road to the Hub/Hazel Lake TH was damaged during the winter storms and is currently closed at the 4.5 mile mark; 1.85 miles from the TH. It is unknown what the schedule is to have it fixed. Please check with the Superior Ranger District for further information. Here is the link to the project page: Ward Creek Road Closure & Map
• East Fork Big Creek Road Closure: The East Fork Big Creek Road to the Heart Lake TH was damaged during the winter storms and is currently closed 1.0 mile from the TH. It is unknown what the schedule is to have it fixed. Please check with the Superior Ranger District for further information. Here is the link to the project page: East Fork Big Creek Road Closure & Map
• Cabin City Campground Closure: The USFS Cabin City Campground at I-90 exit 22 (Henderson) was damaged during the winter storms and is closed for the entirety of the 2026 season. It is unknown what the schedule is to have it fixed. Please check with the Superior Ranger District for further information. Here is the link to the project page: Cabin City Campground Closure & Map
