Areas of the Russian River Campground reopened Friday for nonmotorized winter recreation.
The Chugach National Forest announced Thursday that the campground would be reopened. The closure was implemented in August and prohibited vehicle and pedestrian traffic for ongoing “extensive construction work.” When the campground was closed, the Forest Service wrote that it was expected to reopen May 29.
The construction project, to reconstruct 1 mile of the road, involves the creation of new retaining walls above and below the road, expansion of the shoulder, and installation of a new surface and railing, a release said at the time. These improvements are intended to both improve access for users and protect nearby “critical salmon habitat” from hillside erosion.
According to the forest’s announcement on Thursday, the Aspen Flats, Upper Russian Lake cabins and Barber Cabin are open for reservations.
“While recreating in the area, visitors should be aware of winter hazards and heed all Forest Service signs and fencing,” the forest writes. “Motorized access in the campground area is strictly prohibited.”
For more information about the Chugach National Forest or updated forest orders, visit fs.usda.gov/chugach.
Reach reporter Jake Dye at jacob.dye@peninsulaclarion.com.
