With low snowpack on open roads visitors should stay on snow to reduce resource damage
PRESS RELEASE
RBC | Due to a lack of snow coverage, the White River National Forest is beginning to close some motorized winter roads and trails earlier than usual to protect public safety and prevent road and trail damage.
Some early motorized winter roads and trail closures include several at the Vail Pass Winter Recreation Area and most gates on the Blanco Ranger District. Recent conditions are available online: https://www.fs.usda.gov/r02/whiteriver/conditions.
Many roads and trails on the White River National Forest typically open May 21 for summer uses, including mountain biking, OHVs, and other wheeled vehicles. Due to the dry conditions, managers will assess conditions throughout the spring and may open some roads early this year. Areas with seasonal spring wildlife closures such as critical elk calving zones will remain seasonally closed to all activity, with closure periods beginning as early as April 15 and lasting through July 1, depending on the area.
Visitors should be prepared for low snowpack and varying conditions on the winter roads and trails that remain open and should stay on snow as much as possible to reduce impacts.
