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Museum Fire Closure Lifted On Coconino National Forest

Ryan Heinsius
/
KNAU

Coconino National Forest officials have lifted last summer’s order closing the area burned by the Museum Fire north of Flagstaff.

The public will again be able to access parts of Mount Elden and the Dry Lake Hills that closed July 21, 2019 when the fire began. The area includes several trails and popular recreation areas. The blaze eventually grew to 1,900 acres after triggering the evacuations of several local communities.

Forest managers, however, say dangers still exist in the burn area like falling trees, flash flood and rolling rocks especially during high winds or when precipitation is expected. Officials say users enter at their own risk.

Because of heavy post-fire damage, the Upper Oldham Trail and upper portions of the Brookbank Trail will stay closed until repairs are made. Managers ask visitors to obey posted signs and stay off closed trails.