[pct-l] Holcomb Creek crossing Detour

[enyapjr at comcast.net]

> ...the Water report has a detour listed around the Holcomb creek
> area.  Does anyone know if this detour is still in effect and how much
> mileage it adds to the trail.
 
It is still in effect, see <http://www.fs.fed.us/r5/sanbernardino/conditions/index.shtml> and scroll down 
to "Fire Closure Areas"...  Keep checking this page for 'updates' or changes in the reroute/closure...
 
I did a 'quick' check using my NG Topo! California software a couple of weeks back - looks like it added about 3 miles or so (but, please NOTE, the road reroute might be much LONGER in 'reality' since many mountain roads get 'straightened out' quite a bit when drawn at map scale)...
See <http://www.fs.fed.us/r5/sanbernardino/documents/butler_closure_map111307.pdf> for a map of the closure area and current reroute (2N09 and 3N16)...  Who knows when or if the FS will change the reroute - it may stay as is just for simplicity sake in explaining or writing out the directions!
BTW, the PCT from 2N09 to the end of the closure is approx. 14 trail miles...

As for "Why...close the trail because of a burn area?" - safety and LIABILITY issues; there is a lot of timber in that area, so many 'widow-makers' after a big fire...

Happy trails!!!
Jim