Wenatchee Foothills Trail System reopens April 1 after winter wildlife closure

WENATCHEE — The Wenatchee Foothills trail system will reopen to the public on Tuesday, April 1, following its annual winter closure, according to officials from Chelan County PUD and Chelan-Douglas Land Trust (CDLT).

The trail system closes each December to protect crucial mule deer winter habitat, creating undisturbed space for wildlife during harsh winter months. The reopening coincides with the arrival of spring and will welcome back hikers, runners, and other outdoor enthusiasts.

"We greatly appreciate everyone's compliance with the winter closure," said Chelan PUD Senior Wildlife Biologist Von Pope. "The Wenatchee Foothills are tremendously valuable for deer and other wildlife, especially during the winter months, and for trails users during the spring, summer, and fall."

Chelan PUD manages the Home Water Wildlife Preserve, approximately 960 acres in the heart of Sage Hills, as part of its federal license to operate Rock Island Dam. The winter closures are a required condition of the permitted seasonal trail use.

In addition to the PUD-managed lands, CDLT and the City of Wenatchee also close public access to more than 2,200 acres of adjacent open space to provide additional winter range for wildlife.

Trail improvements are scheduled throughout 2025, according to CDLT officials.

"In 2025, we will focus on trail sustainability and access improvements throughout the Foothills," said Ryan Graig, CDLT's Trails Project Manager. "This spring, we will be re-grading the Coyote Canyon Trail, improving accessibility at Horse Lake Trailhead, and restoring sections of the Lower Castle Rock trails. In the fall, we will reconstruct the Saddle Rock East Trail and re-grade the Lightning Trail."

The reopening comes as CDLT celebrates its 40th anniversary of land conservation in the region. The organization has announced plans for 40 free community events to mark the milestone and encourages residents to check their website for updates on trail conditions, weather-related closures, and event changes.

CDLT is a membership-based nonprofit that works collaboratively with property owners and communities to identify and protect important natural lands in Chelan and Douglas counties. The organization relies on community support to continue its conservation mission.