Hook Creek Road added to Aztec Falls (Deep Creek) closure

San Bernardino National Forest officials have expanded the closure around Deep Creek, which included Aztec Falls, that was put in place on May 22. The closure now includes the length of Hook Creek Road (2N26Y), which runs between Crab Flats Road (3N34) and the San Bernardino County-maintained portion of Hook Creek Road outside Forest Service land in the community of Lake Arrowhead.

Forest Service personnel have observed continued parking problems on Hook Creek Road (2N26Y), including vehicles blocking access for fire engines and ambulances, prompting this additional closure.

Visitors seeking to access the immediate area and Crab Flats Road (3N34) have a number of options, including the North Shore National Recreation Trail (3W12), Rouse Ranch Road (2N25), Banff Road (2N28Y), Ash Meadows Road (2N73), and Crab Flats Road from Pinnacles Staging Area or Crab Flats Campground. High clearance vehicles, especially on Crab Flats from the campground, are necessary for these roads.

Other areas of the closure include Deep Creek and 50 feet out from both sides between Hook Creek and Devils Hole, Splinters Cabin Spur Trail (2W22), and Splinters Cabin Road (3N34C). Hikers on the PCT may pass through the area, provided they enter and exit outside of the closure area, however hikers with a valid “PCT Long-distance Permit” issued by the Forest Service may use Splinters Cabin Spur Trail and Splinters Cabin Road. The closure additionally does not apply to people on Devils Hole Road (3N34D) and Devils Hole OHV Trail (2W01).

During the closure, Forest staff will work toward creating a recreation management plan for the area to address congestion and parking in the area, including Hook Creek Road (2N26Y), as well as other challenges in managing this section of Deep Creek, including illegal campfires, graffiti and trash.

A violation of this prohibition is punishable by a fine of not more than $5,000 for an individual or $10,000 for an organization or imprisonment for not more than six months, or both.