Highway 20 reopens as firefighters battle 'Easy Fire' in Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, trail closures remain in effect

MAZAMA - The Washington State Department of Transportation reopened Highway 20 (North Cascades Highway) on Thursday, July 18, at 4 pm, following coordination with fire managers and local emergency management teams battling the Easy Fire in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest.

The Easy Fire, which was sparked by lightning on July 17, continues to burn in rugged terrain approximately 18 air miles west of Mazama. The fire is primarily fueled by timber in the area.

While the highway has reopened, several trails in the vicinity remain closed due to the ongoing firefighting efforts. These closures include the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) #2000 between Harts Pass and Rainy Pass, Cutthroat Trail #483, Easy Pass Trail #741, Heather/Maple Pass #740 (which includes access to Lake Ann, Rainy Lake, Wing Lake, Lewis Lake, and Black Peak), West Fork Methow Trail #480, East Creek Trail #756, Mill Creek Trail #755, and Boulder Creek Trail #729. Fire officials are currently planning a re-route for the PCT, but it is not yet available.

Authorities remind the public that flying drones in the wildfire area is strictly prohibited, as it will immediately shut down all air operations. They emphasize, "If you fly, we can't!"

The Easy Fire continues to pose challenges for firefighters due to the rugged terrain and the nature of the fuels involved. Fire managers and crews are working diligently to contain the blaze and mitigate its impact on the surrounding areas.