Hood Mountain Lawson Expansion

What & Why?

The Master Planning process and approval for the 247-acre Lawson property at Hood Mountain Regional Park & Open Space Preserve was completed in 2018. The Master Plan outlines the opportunities for the public to enjoy this property and defines recreational uses and land management strategies.

The Lawson Trail from the Lower Johnson Ridge Trail to the Lawson property opened for public use in July 2020, following the construction work. Unfortunately, the Glass Fire in 2020 caused damage along the newly open trail with fallen trees and vegetation.  Repairs have now been completed, providing the first public access to the park following this event.

Furthermore, the fire destroyed both the Lawson barn and cabin. Hazardous materials left behind by the burned structures were removed in 2021. 

In 2022, Regional Parks acquired a neighboring property, Cougar Landing. The 120-acre property prior to acquisition was a grow property with structure and debris supporting this use. The 2020 Glass Fire burned through the entire property consuming buildings and other infrastructure.

Regional Parks has worked to clean the property of debris, remove hazard trees, improve conditions preventing erosion and has identified and secured the property. The well was repaired and the water tank, previously destroyed in the fire, was replaced.

What's Next?

A new trail to Lawson Peak from Lawson Trail is being designed and bid for construction in 2025. Look for volunteer projects relating to the new trail and maintenance of the existing Lawson Trail in spring/summer 2025.

Additional improvements, hazard tree clearing, and wayfinding signage to Cougar Landing will be made to prepare the property for public access on existing roads, anticipated for summer 2025.