Beaver Creek Burn Area to Remain Closed Near Ketchum

KETCHUM, Idaho (AP) — The U.S. Forest Service says most of the area within a 170-square-mile wildfire that burned in central Idaho last summer will remain closed this year due to safety concerns.

The agency announced the closure Monday, saying that areas that burned in the Beaver Creek Fire near the resort area of Ketchum have been severely eroded. The order closing the area applies to all human use, including mountain biking, hiking, horseback riding, motorcycling and mushroom gathering.

The agency says the highest concerns include eroded trails and roads, and damaged bridges and culverts. Dead trees that can fall are also a concern. Officials say some areas could open if conditions stabilize.