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Pike National Forest

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.

Cave Closure and Restrictions

The purpose of this Order is to reduce the spread of the fungus that causes White nose syndrome and to protect bat species during critical biological periods.

Overview

Pike National Forest is part of the Pike-San Isabel National Forests & Cimarron and Comanche National Grasslands (PSICC) administrative unit, covering nearly 3 million acres across Colorado and Kansas. The Pike portion encompasses over 1.1 million acres in Colorado's Front Range, west of Colorado Springs, including the iconic Pikes Peak. The forest is currently open with moderate to high fire danger levels depending on district. Recent alerts include downed and weakened trees on the South Platte Ranger District from sustained high winds (December 2025), and the Turkey Tracks shooting range remains closed following the controlled Turkey Tracks 69 wildfire (22 acres, controlled as of November 30, 2025). Several area-specific closures are in effect for resource protection, including wilderness camping restrictions, bear protection orders, raptor nest site closures, and seasonal restrictions. Current fire danger is rated High for Pikes Peak and South Platte districts, and Moderate for South Park district. The forest offers diverse recreation including wilderness areas (Lost Creek, Buffalo Peaks, Mount Evans), the Colorado Trail, 14ers, dispersed camping, and extensive backcountry opportunities. Winter prescribed pile burning operations are underway in some areas. As always, check current conditions with local ranger districts before heading out, and practice Leave No Trace principles.

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