Horse Lake Road Closed - 4th of July Holiday

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

June 18, 2026

Contact: CDLT Communications Coordinator Dania, [email protected]

Temporary Closure of Horse Lake Road Planned Around Fourth of July Holiday

WENATCHEE, WA — To help reduce wildfire risk during the Fourth of July holiday period, Chelan County Commissioners are temporarily closing Horse Lake Road and Burch Mountain Road from July 1 through July 8, 2026. The temporary road closures are being implemented in coordination with the Chelan County Fire Marshal's Office and local fire agencies due to elevated wildfire risk and concerns about illegal fireworks activity in the area.

While the roads will be closed to vehicle traffic, the Horse Lake Reserve trail system will remain open. Visitors may still access the trails by walking along the closed road or by connecting through other trails within the Wenatchee Foothills trail system. 

Horse Lake Reserve, managed by CDLT, is a popular outdoor recreation destination. While the closure may temporarily impact trail access, the measure is intended to reduce the risk of human-caused wildfires during one of the most fire-prone times of the year.

"Protecting our community, natural areas, and nearby neighborhoods is our top priority," said Sam Jordan, CDLT Stewardship Director. "We appreciate the public's understanding as local agencies take proactive steps to reduce wildfire risk during the holiday weekend."

CDLT encourages hikers, runners, and cyclists to explore other local trail systems during the closure period. Alternative recreation opportunities can be found at Saddle Rock, Castle Rock, Jacobson Preserve, and other open public lands throughout the Wenatchee Valley.

Fireworks, campfires, and other ignition sources are prohibited on all CDLT properties and City of Wenatchee foothill lands. Visitors are encouraged to recreate responsibly and help protect the lands that make North Central Washington special.

Horse Lake Road is expected to reopen on July 9, 2026, unless conditions warrant an extension of the closure.

For more information, visit www.cdlandtrust.org or contact the Chelan-Douglas Land Trust at (509) 667-9708. Questions regarding the road closures may also be directed at the Chelan County Fire Marshal's Office.

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Image of Horse Lake Road Closure Gate