BEDFORD – Due to recent storm damage, the Charles C. Deam Wilderness Peninsula Trail and the Pate Hollow Trail system in the Hoosier National Forest have been temporarily closed until further notice.
In addition to these trails, Campsites 12 and 21 in the Charles C. Deam Wilderness are also closed.
The area surrounding the Peninsula Trail contains fallen trees, branches, and other storm damage, so visitors are encouraged to avoid it.
Visitors are also encouraged to stay on established trails and not make detours or cut-throughs to avoid worsening trail conditions.
Forest Service staff at the Hoosier National Forest are working hard to clear debris and assess storm damage throughout the northern part of the forest, including the Charles C. Deam Wilderness, affected by the June 25 storm.
The Pate Hollow Trail is currently being cleared, but the damage is extensive, and it could take several months to complete. Staff are analyzing the best approach for the Peninsula Trail due to specific wilderness management issues. Visitors should know that the Peninsula Trail is expected to close in the fall or later. Additional personnel and equipment will likely be needed to clear all the trees following wilderness management guidelines.
The Charles C. Deam Wilderness was designated a wilderness in 1982. This designation places the area under special legal status that restricts activities, including the use of mechanized equipment.
Forest Service staff at the Hoosier National Forest will work within all restrictions on the Deam wilderness area when repairing storm damage.
Most designated campsites in the Deam Wilderness have been assessed for damage, but not all, so forest visitors are encouraged to use caution when visiting the area. A non-motorized boat can access designated campsites on or near the Monroe Lake shoreline. Visitors can check the forest’s website (fs.usda.gov/Hoosier) and social media for updates.
