4th of July Temporary Closure of Horse Lake Preserve and Road

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 13, 2025

Temporary Closure of Horse Lake Road and Trail Access July 2–9 for Fire Safety

Wenatchee, WA — In response to fire safety concerns surrounding the Fourth of July holiday, Chelan County Commissioners passed a resolution to temporarily close Horse Lake Road from Wednesday, July 2 through Tuesday, July 9, 2025. This closure includes public access to the Horse Lake Reserve trails, managed by the Chelan-Douglas Land Trust (CDLT).

The closure was requested by the Wenatchee Valley Fire Department due to increased incidents of illegal fireworks and heightened fire risk in the area. The temporary closure is a precautionary measure to protect nearby neighborhoods, public lands, and natural habitat during a period of increased fire danger.

“We fully support the County and Fire Marshal in prioritizing public safety,” said Sam Jordan, CDLT’s Stewardship Director.  “While Horse Lake is a beloved destination, this closure is a necessary step to reduce wildfire risk during a particularly vulnerable time.”
 

CDLT encourages trail users to explore alternative hiking and biking areas during this time. Nearby options such as Saddle Rock, Castle Rock, Jacobson Preserve, and Sage Hills remain open and provide excellent summer recreation opportunities. All fires, fireworks, and ignition sources are strictly prohibited on all CDLT and City of Wenatchee properties. These rules are in place to protect our community and natural areas during wildfire season.

The Horse Lake Reserve is scheduled to reopen on Wednesday, July 10.
 

For more information,  contact CDLT at (509) 667-9708. Questions about the closure can also be directed to the Chelan County Fire Marshal’s Office at (509) 630-9259.

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The Chelan-Douglas Land Trust is a local non-profit working to conserve our land, our water, and our access to natural areas. The Land Trust has a 40-year record of working collaboratively with property owners and communities to identify and permanently protect the region’s most important natural lands. CDLT is a membership organization that relies upon the community's support to continue to preserve and care for lands in Chelan and Douglas counties. The lands that make this area unique. www.cdlandtrust.org