Siuslaw Forest Closes Homestead Trailhead After Boardwalk Damage

The Siuslaw National Forest moved quickly to close the Homestead trailhead and a portion of the Sweet Creek trail following a vehicle accident that significantly damaged a stretch of boardwalk between the Homestead trailhead and the Sweet Creek trailhead. The emergency closure order was issued on November 13, 2025 and was posted by the Central Coast Ranger District as a public safety measure.

Forest officials reported that the Sweet Creek trail remains accessible from the south via the Sweet Creek Falls trailhead. The closure specifically affects access from the Homestead side where the boardwalk sustained the most damage. A damage assessment and clean up efforts began immediately. No significant injuries were reported in the incident, and the public was advised to be mindful of equipment and workers in the area as crews address hazards and begin repairs.

Temporary or intermittent road closures along Forest Service Road 48, also known as Sweet Creek Road, near the Homestead trailhead may be necessary over the coming days while crews work on the site. The emergency closure order is in effect through September 30, 2026 unless modified or rescinded sooner. Images accompanying the Forest Service release show substantial boardwalk damage at the scene.

For Lane County residents and visitors, the closure alters access to a popular natural attraction. Sweet Creek Falls is a regional draw for hikers, photographers, and families, particularly during the fall and winter seasons when water flow is higher. With access from the Homestead trailhead restricted, visitors will need to plan to use the Sweet Creek Falls trailhead to reach the falls and adjacent trail segments. Local outfitters, tour operators and lodging providers who serve visitors headed to the Sweet Creek area may see a shift in visitor patterns while repairs are underway.

Institutionally, the emergency closure highlights the Forest Service role in maintaining public safety and infrastructure on federal lands. The agency has initiated assessment and cleanup but has not provided a detailed repair timeline beyond the duration of the closure order. Residents seeking updates should monitor the Siuslaw National Forest website and the agency social accounts at @SiuslawNF on Facebook and X for notices about closures, road interruptions, and reopening plans.

The closure underscores broader questions about trail infrastructure resilience, vehicle access at trailheads, and funding priorities for timely repairs. For now, the priority is ensuring safety around the damaged boardwalk and restoring reliable access for the community and visitors in a manner that protects both people and the forest resource.