Forest service opens access to Cedar Creek Falls near Julian

The Cleveland National Forest will allow public access to Cedar Creek Falls from the east side off Eagle Peak Road near Julian, beginning April 1.

The west access to Cedar Creek Falls and the surrounding area, off Thornbush Road in Ramona, will remain closed.

“We’re opening access to the falls from the east side as many hikers are very interested in regaining access to the area,” said Joan Friedlander, district ranger for the Palomar Ranger District, Cleveland National Forest. “We feel we can currently grant access from the east side in a manageable manner that provides for safety to the public, and allows forest visitors to enjoy this part of the forest. We are continuing to work on a management plan that will allow access from all forest service trails.”

The forest service closed the falls and access to the falls on July 9, 2011, after a teenage boy fell to his death from a rocky cliff, in order to design and implement a management plan that addresses issues of overcrowding, damaging impacts to natural resources and public safety.

The forest service said it is studying potential solutions with partner agencies and intends to make a decision on reopening full access to the trails this summer.

Those who use the east entrance should be aware of the following, reported the forest service.

•The difficult seven mile roundtrip trail is recommended for advanced hikers only.

•Parking is limited and vehicles blocking road access will be towed at owner’s expense.

•Alcohol possession and use in the area including the falls is prohibited.

•The cliffs surrounding the falls are closed to jumping and diving (swimming is allowed).

•Visitors are not required to have a permit at this time

•Law enforcement agencies will be on site to enforce these rules.

More information is available at www.fs.usda.gov/cleveland.