Gifford Pinchot National Forest lifts closures for Skyo Fire near Packwood

The Gifford Pinchot National Forests has lifted the road closures for the Skyo Fire in the Cowlitz Valley Ranger District near Packwood, the U.S. Forest service announced in a news release this week.

All roads, trailheads and trails within the closure area are now open and accessible to the public. That includes Forest Road 4710 and associated spur roads.

The Skyo Fire was first reported on July 22 following a lightning storm. The fire remains 254 acres in size and is 100% contained. Additional growth is not expected.

Although post‑fire suppression repair work is complete, visitors should use caution when entering the burn area. Fire‑weakened trees, hidden stump holes, loose rocks and unstable terrain may create potentially hazardous conditions, according to the news release.

As warm and dry weather continues, fire danger remains “moderate” across the Gifford Pinchot National Forest, and the Industrial Fire Precaution Level (IFPL) remains at Level 1.

Visitors are encouraged to stay alert to changing conditions and future restrictions.

For the most up‑to‑date information, visit the forest’s fire restrictions page at https://tinyurl.com/4kcewceu.