Cedar Creek Permit Proposal up for Public Review

Hikers to Cedar Creek Falls near Ramona will not be allowed to carry or consume alcohol or climb and jump from the cliffs, under a permit system proposed by the Forest Service. The public has until May 17 to offer comments as part of the permit review process. (Originally this story said May 29 based on Patch being told 30 "business days;" the correct date is May 17.)

The permit idea has been under discussion since the Ramona trailhead was closed after last summer. It also stems from neighbors' complaints about traffic, trash and disrespectful, inebriated visitors.

The Falls area is popular with hikers from all over San Diego County. During one weekend day in 2011, the Forest Service counted 703 vehicles parked near the trailhead in San Diego Country Estates. The Falls can also be accessed from the Julian side.

When the Julian trail to the Falls , the Forest Service issued temporary orders banning alcohol use and possession and closing the cliff faces. Under the proposed permit, barriers will be installed around the Falls.

In the Draft Assessment of the permit system, the Forest Service states that the number of vehicles parked along Eagle Peak Road on the Julian side compromised emergency access at times.

The plan is to have permits available to hikers through the National Recreation Reservation System.

The Forest Service anticipates the public review of the permit proposal should be completed by late May or mid-June, however it depends whether the process goes as intended, spokesman Brian Harris told Patch on Thursday. The public review is required under the National Environmental Protection Act (NEPA). A decision can be expected following the review, and the Service expects to re-open the trail immediately following that, Harris said.

The Draft Assessment and maps are attached to this story.