Post Canyon, located just outside the small town of Hood River, is one of Oregon’s most popular mountain bike trail systems. The densely-wound network of purpose-built mountain bike trails serves local Hood River riders while also drawing a dedicated contingent of mountain bikers from nearby Portland, one hour away. These beautifully-crafted trails are also a must-ride for any mountain bikers passing through the area on a road trip.
Unfortunately, most of the trails in Post Canyon have just been closed due to ongoing fire suppression efforts, and more closures could be imminent. According to a release from Hood County:
The Whisky Creek Fire suppression efforts are requiring additional County trail and road closures effective Thursday, August 1st, 2024. In coordination with multiple government agencies, HRC will be closing all trails and roads to the West of Trail-140 (map attached), including but not limited to:
- Post Canyon Rd. above 7 Streams Staging Area
- Post Flats Staging Area
- Mitchell Ridge
- Mobius
- Spaghetti Factory
- Trail-133/Borderline
- Trail-130/Whip snake
- Blade Runner
- Moto-Ghetti
HRC Forestry has established closures and fire teams will be working through the area with heavy equipment establishing contingency fire lines. This closure is expected to remain in place until progress in containment of the fire is made. For the safety of all, do not approach machinery or enter closures. HRC Sheriff Office is on patrol and enforcing this closure. Please help spread the message and be fire smart.
According to HRATS, the local mountain bike advocacy group, the latest closures mean that many common routes in the popular network are not currently rideable. Unfortunately, HRATS has also received reports of riders on closed trails close to heavy machinery. If mountain bikers continue to ignore the posted closures, the entire trail system could soon be closed to mountain biking for an indeterminate amount of time.
Wildfires in Oregon
Over 1 million acres of land are currently burning in Oregon, sending wildfire smoke across the Western USA. The largest fire in the state — the Durkee fire along the border of Eastern Oregon and Idaho just south of Baker City — has grown to 293,882 acres, according to InciWeb.
While the Whisky Creek Fire is tiny in comparison, its location threatens many recreation areas and nearby communities, including Hood River. The fire has already caused the closure of many hiking trails and nearby campgrounds. The work taking place in Post Canyon is primarily the digging of fire lines to prevent the fire from spreading in that direction. The Whisky Creek fire has not yet burned any of the terrain that comprises Post Canyon.
According to InciWeb, the Whisky Creek Fire currently covers 891 acres of land. According to CCC News, the fire is expected to have been human caused, but the cause is currently under investigation. 304 personnel are currently working the fire.
