Field report: Trailheads becoming accessible in Selkirks

HIKING — Most of the popular trailheads in the Selkirk Mountains near Bonners Ferry are accessible by vehicle as of this week thanks to rain that erased much of the snowpack.

But hikers can still expect to find snow on the high and shaded trails.

Also expect blowdowns on many trails for awhile as trail crews are just getting  access, too.

Here’s a summary by Bonners Ferry Ranger District trails coordinator Pat Hart:

Roman Nose-Trout Creek road open to trailheads, but snow remains on trails.

West Fork Smith Creek route is open but West Fork Lake Trail has considerable damage; not suitable for stock.

Two-Mouth and Myrtle Peak access road is in bad condition, not even suitable for some high clearance vehicles. However, trail to Burton Peak is accessible and maintained.

Clifty Peak area is accessible but not maintained.

Boulder Creek area has just become accessible to vehicles, but has not been maintained.

Long Canyon-Parker Ridge may not be maintained for at least two weeks. Snow still clogs the high areas.

Snyder Creek ORV trails have been maintained.