Boise, Idaho — The Boise and Sawtooth National Forests are preparing for the solar eclipse. With the projected increase of visitors, there are special considerations requiring additional attention from all Forest users during this time, please visit: https://www.fs.usda.gov/main/boise/home
Some areas within the path of totality are closed. Below are some of the specific closure areas. Recreationists are highly encouraged to “know before you go” by visiting the Boise National Forest alerts and notices page where all current closures are posted: https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/boise/alerts-notices
- Bear Valley Creek areas will be closed for the protection of threatened and endangered species and for public health and safety. This area north of Lowman, ID, hosts adult salmon completing their spawning migration (almost 900 miles). This area is very sensitive and we ask our visitors to help us protect this valuable resource.
- National Forest Systems (NFS) Road 555 (Scott Mountain Road) will be designated one-way traffic at different times of the day for public safety Aug. 18-21, 2017. Northbound traffic is open from 6 a.m.-1 p.m. Southbound traffic is open from 1-7 p.m. Two-way traffic is open to 7 p.m.-6 a.m.
- Snowbank Mountain area has limited occupancy capacity and will be monitored. Once capacity has been reached, NFS Road 446 gate will be closed to further incoming traffic for public health and safety. If you plan on viewing the eclipse from this delicate area, please help protect it by adhering to the posted motor vehicle boundaries (300 feet from designated roads).
- Salvage logging and Forest road repair work has begun in areas burned by the 2016 Pioneer Fire. Forest visitors traveling on State Highways 55, State Highway 21, Boise County Road 17 (Banks Lowman Highway) and adjacent NFS roads within the Lowman and Idaho City Ranger Districts should drive with caution as there is an increase of logging truck activity. Safety is always important, especially while traveling in burned areas as there is a higher degree of hazards. Many immediate threat hazard trees have been removed along priority roads and travel routes however, fire weakened trees have potential to fall; obstructing roadways and camp sites. Forest recreationists are encouraged to critically evaluate parking areas and camping locations.
- Be bear aware. During dry summer months, bear’s natural food may be scarce, attracting them to improperly stored food sources. For additional safety information, please visit:https://www.fs.fed.us/visit/know-before-you-go/bears
