A popular visitor's site in the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest is reopening, along with a few other recreation spots after the July 19 storm that rocked Langlade and Oconto counties.
Forest spokesperson Hilary Markin says Cathedral Pines trail head near Lakewood is reopening...
"..We found out yesterday that people were able to get in there and clear out the Cathedral Pines trailhead so that is open and their also working on the Carter Lookout...trail head this week and hopefully we'll have good news by the end of the week that those are open as well...."
Cathedral Pines is a 40-acre grove of white pine, hemlock and red pine that escaped cutting by lumberjacks in the 1900s. The scenic old-growth forest is one of the few remaining stands of towering pine and hemlock in Wisconsin. Markin says a couple other popular sites have opened...
"...Bagley Rapids campground is now open, along with the Mountain fire tower. The Mountain fire tower wasn't damaged during the storm, it was the road leading into there that had several trees down. But if folks are looking for a great vantage point to see the blowdown and see some of the areas around, it's a great opportunity to get up high so you can see the sights from there..."
In addition, several dispersed camping areas such as Nelligan Lake, Mountain Lakes and Bear Paw are also open. Visitors are reminded to check the website before visiting the Forest for the latest updates on what is open and closed.
A closure order is in place for roads, trails and recreation sites that were damaged during the storm. For more information on the storm event visit the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest website https://www.fs.usda.gov/cnnf/ or on social media. The Lakewood-Laona Ranger District at 715-276-6333.
