Popular NorCal Waterfall Closes for the Year Due to Growing Green Fire Near Shasta Lake
The Green Fire burning in the Shasta-Trinity National Forest has forced the closure of several popular recreation areas — including the beloved Potem Falls — for the rest of 2025.
As of midnight Wednesday, the U.S. Forest Service shut down all access to sites north of the Pit River arm of Lake Shasta, citing public safety concerns as the wildfire more than doubled in size. The closures will remain in effect through at least January 31, 2026.
Among the closed areas is the Potem Falls Trail, a hidden gem off Highway 299 accessed via Fenders Ferry Road. The closure also includes Madrone Campground and Chirpchatter Campground, along with their picnic areas and restrooms.
The Green Fire has grown to 3,272 acres, fueled by dry wilderness conditions. The fire is burning west of Montgomery Creek and Round Mountain, and east of I-5 near O’Brien. Cal Fire has issued an evacuation warning for Zone LKH-1448, covering areas north of Bully Hill and south of Satin Peak.
Visitors are urged to stay clear of the closure zones and to respect fire-related restrictions for their own safety — and to help crews focus on containing the blaze.
Stay tuned for updates as conditions develop.
