Uncompahgre National Forest

Hydrologic Outlook issued October 28 at 2:42PM MDT by NWS Grand Junction CO

October 28th, 2:42 PM — 3:00 PM

ESFGJT Low pressure begins to dig southward from the PACNW on Friday, tapping into a fetch of Pacific moisture that will evolve into an atmospheric river streaming into the Desert Southwest this weekend. Showers and thunderstorms develop on Friday and Saturday across the region. Lighter rainfall totals Friday and Saturday will reflect, initially lower, moisture. However, a few thunderstorms could produce impactful downpours on saturated soils left over from last weekend's historic rainfall. Deeper moisture develops Saturday night and early Sunday. This is expected to produce heavier and more widespread rainfall across southeast UT and southwest CO Sunday and Monday, mostly below 10000 feet. While rivers are forecast to remain below action stage, a growing concern lies in the potential for runoff around saturated hillsides in the region. This could produce rock, mud, and debris flows onto roadways, as well as flash flood prone burn scars, washes, slot canyons, and arroyos. Early estimates predict an area of 1 to 2 inches of new rainfall for portions of southeast UT and southwest CO. This is a preliminary forecast that hinges on slight shifts in a strong moisture plume impacting the region. It also attempts to capture the most statistically likely outcome, despite stronger and weaker outlier predictions. Outdoor enthusiasts, motorists, and residents of recent flood impacted areas are encouraged to remain abreast of the developing forecast in the coming days.

Wheeled Vehicles in Wilderness

This order describes the prohibition of wheeled vehicles in all National Forest Wilderness Areas of the Rocky Mountain Region and any exceptions thereof.

Weed Free Forage Products

The purpose of this Order is to prevent the introduction or spread of noxious weeds.

Overview

Uncompahgre National Forest is part of the administratively combined Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison (GMUG) National Forests, covering over 3 million acres on Colorado's Western Slope. The Uncompahgre portion encompasses nearly 1 million acres across western Colorado, spanning from the Uncompahgre Plateau to the rugged San Juan Mountains with elevations ranging from 5,800 to over 14,000 feet. The forest is currently open with typical winter operations in effect. Active alerts include: winter travel restrictions in the Crested Butte area (began Dec 31, 2025), winter wildlife closures in the Almont Triangle (Dec 12-April 30), and temporary winter logging road closures on Grand Mesa (Mondays-Fridays through April 1, 2026). The forest is conducting prescribed pile burning operations as conditions allow. Multiple wilderness areas including Uncompahgre Wilderness have special regulations to protect wilderness character. Several campgrounds like Little Bear are closed for reconstruction. Forest roads are seasonally closed due to snow and spring mud conditions—contact individual ranger districts for current road status. The forest offers over 3,000 miles of trails, five 14ers, ten wilderness areas, and four scenic byways. Motor Vehicle Use Maps are required for motorized travel. Check avalanche forecasts and weather before heading out, as conditions change rapidly at elevation.

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