after the winter of 2003-2004, approximately 200 dead trees (none of which were giant sequoias) threatened the safety of visitors and forced the closure of the trail. on april 29, 2004, the forest service held a public meeting at the trail to see the hazard trees and to discuss public concerns and options. in may, a short portion of the trail was cleared and reopened while forest officials determined how best to remove the remaining hazards.