Forest Service Working to Repair and Reopen Major Road Washouts

Release Date: Jun 27, 2023

Rapid snowmelt during a warm spell in May followed by several heavy rain downpours have created powerful runoff events on the Idaho Panhandle National Forests, washing out at least two significant road segments near Priest Lake and Bonners Ferry.

Temporary closures have been issued for public safety. Drivers are urged to avoid the areas, if possible, as alternate driving routes may be unavailable or extremely long.

The Forest Service appreciates public tolerance as it works to repair and reopen these critical roads. Check the IPNF website or contact district offices for updates on road status.

Forest Service Road 408 – Bonners Ferry Ranger District

The Forest Service has issued a temporary closure for a 1.1-mile segment of Forest Service Road 408, also known as Twentymile Road, from the McGinty Ridge Trailhead (No. 143) to the junction with FSR 628 (Milepost 15.6 to Milepost 16.7).

Current order and map: https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/ipnf/alerts-notices/?aid=81101

Forest Service Road 302 – Priest Lake Ranger District

The Forest Service has temporarily closed a segment of Forest Service Road 302 on the Priest Lake Ranger District, from just north of Stagger Inn to the summit of Granite Pass (Milepost 12.6 to Milepost 13.8).

Current order and map: https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/ipnf/alerts-notices/?aid=80674

FSR 302 is a main artery traversing the district from south to north with limited options for driving around the closure (alternate routes are 3 to 4 hours driving time).

We recommend calling ahead to inquire the best option for reaching a destination north of the washout.

Kootenai River Complex Closure – Bonners Ferry Ranger District

The entirety of Ball Creek Road (FSR 432) and Trout Creek Road (FSR 634) remain closed for public safety due to wildfire effects and post-fire restoration work on the Kootenai River Complex.

Current order and map: https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/ipnf/alerts-notices/?aid=79871