Dirt roads off-limits in Eldorado National Forest

The annual seasonal closure of as dirt roads in the Eldorado National Forest takes effect this week.

Rainfall, soil moisture, road and trail conditions, and weather forecasts are factors that trigger a seasonal closure earlier than Jan. 1. The roads will remain closed until at least April 1.

The seasonal closure is designed to protect roadbeds and watersheds from damage and to protect water quality. A minimal three-month closure period from January 1 through March 30 was designated for the harshest part of the winter in the Eldorado National Forest Travel Management Plan. To maintain flexibility, going into the dirt road closure early or extending the closure is determined based on current conditions at the time. Last year, conditions were so dry the roads were only closed for the mandatory three-month period.

Roads subject to seasonal closure are identified on a map that is free-of-charge and available at all Eldorado National Forest offices and online.