Zigzag Mountain Road, aka Road 27, aka FR2627 is the access road to the Zigzag, West Zigzag, and other trailheads west of Mount Hood. The Forest Service road crosses two parcels of privately owned land and the owner has put a locked gate and no trespassing signs up at (45.32085, -121.89377), blocking accesss. Below you will find a couple of things you can do about this gate. Here is a map showing the location:
It is generally the case that forest service roads leading to public trailheads with a history of access cannot be blocked by private landowners. It is also the case that landowners typically ask forgiveness rather than permission; if the public doesn't complain, certainly the gate will not be removed. Here things you can do:
1. Call the Zigzag Ranger station (503.622.3191), tell them there appears to be a privately constructed gate blocking access to the Zigzag trailheads at (45.32085, -121.89377) and ask them if they know about it and if they do, if there is anything being done to restore historical access. Ask for an email address so you can ask for a review, in writing, of the access issues.
2. Call the Mount Hood National Forest Headquarters (503.668.1700) and ask to speak to someone who deals with public land access issues. Tell them there appears to be a privately constructed gate blocking access to the Zigzag trailheads at (45.32085, -121.89377) and ask them what can be done to restore historical access. Ask for an email address so you can ask for a review, in writing, of the access issues.
Private landowners blocking access to public land is increasingly common, especially as federal agencies have fewer resources to address closures. The ones that get attention get it because the outdoor community takes action.