Gifford Pinchot National Forest

Alcohol Prohibitions

This Order describes acts that are prohibited upon lands, roads and trails within the National Forest System administered by the Forest Service Pacific Northwest Region in regards to alcoholic beverages.

Aquatic Invasive Species

This Order prohibits 1) possessing, storing, or transporting any aquatic invasive animal species AND 2) prohibits possessing, storing, or transporting any aquatic or riparian invasive plant species - on National Forest System lands in the Pacific Northwest Region as specified in the Order.

Restrictions on Use of Forage and Mulch Products

This Order prohibits unloading, storing, or using any straw, hay, grain, seed, or other forage or mulch products that are not state-certified weed free on the National Forest System lands, roads or trails in any Closure Area as specific in the Order. Some examples of these include hay bales, hay…

Overview

Gifford Pinchot National Forest encompasses 1.3 million acres in southwest Washington State, including Mt. Adams and the Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument. The forest is currently open but experiencing significant winter conditions and recent weather impacts. As of December 2025, the forest was hit by an atmospheric river that brought 16+ inches of rain, causing widespread road closures and localized flooding. Multiple forest roads remain closed due to washouts, slides, and damage, including FR 93 (washout at MP 6.95), FR 6808 (sinkhole closure MP 3.9-4.2), and upper State Route 504 at Spirit Lake (closed until possibly 2026 due to large slide). Winter road closures are in effect for seasonal gates - these roads are not maintained and can be hazardous. Most forest roads are not plowed in winter and may require high clearance 4WD or chains. The forest contains multiple ranger districts and offers extensive recreation opportunities including the Lewis River Recreation Area corridor. Current conditions are rapidly changing, so verify road and trail status before your trip, especially for backcountry access or Mt. Adams climbing.

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