Caltrans release: 

Efforts are ongoing to stabilize and clear a large landslide that has fully closed Route 36 east of Swimmer’s Delight near Grizzly Creek Redwoods State Park.

Following geotechnical analysis and strategic planning, as well as equipment and crew mobilization, our current goal is to remove hazards within the active slide zone. After that, we’ll focus on building a catchment area and a temporary traffic lane slightly shifted away from the hillside.

Currently, we’re cautiously optimistic that traffic will resume by the end of next week. Safely resuming traffic, especially for emergency services, remains our top priority. In the coming days, once we’re deeper into the nitty-gritty of this work, we’ll provide more detailed information and a clearer timeline.

Also, high-quality topographic data is being gathered to support long-term stabilization. This slide is large and steep. It extends roughly 800 feet up the slope, and due to its steepness and complexity, we’re looking at utilizing helicopter operations soon. Drone-based LiDAR has helped assess the site, but due to difficult terrain and the need for precision, helicopter-mounted LiDAR will be used soon. That data will inform a more permanent slope fix later this summer.