Rio Grande 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.

Falls Creek Closure Area, Camping, and Motor Vehicle Travel Restrictions

This San Juan National Forest forest order describes closure areas, as well as camping and motor vehicle travel restrictions in the Falls Creek.

West Fork Road and Bridge Closure Order

The Pagosa Ranger District's West Fork Bridge is closed by Forest Order due to damage during the October 2025 flood events. Forest Road 648 (West Fork) is closed at location identified by this order.

Multiple roads and trails damaged by flooding on SJNF

In early October, severe flooding events created ongoing safety and access concerns for Forest users on the Columbine and Pagosa Ranger Districts of the San Juan National Forest. Available forest employees are assessing the many roads, trails, bridges, and other infrastructure that was damaged or…

McPhee Park Road Closure Order

The purpose of this order is to protect natural resources.

Lemon Reservoir Restrictions

The following act is prohibited on the National Forest System (NFS) lands and waters on the Columbine Ranger District of the San Juan National Forest:

Cascade Flume Safety Closure

Area closure: The purpose of this Order is for public health and safety during the Cascade Tacoma Flume repair. The recent failure of the flume resulted in infrastructure damage and a landslide that has destabilized the Described Area. Concerns for public safety include loose debris, continuing…

McPhee Reservoir Prohibitions

The purpose of this Order is to prevent the infestation of aquatic nuisance species.

Mancos/Dolores Camping Restrictions

The purpose of this Order is to protect public safety and natural resources.

Purgatory Ski Resort Area Vehicle Use Restrictions

From November 15 through April 30 annually, it is prohibited to use an over-snow vehicle (snowmobiles, timber sleds, and ski bikes) or mechanized vehicle that lacks a motor, such as a non-electric bicycle, on the Described Roads and Described Trails and OFF NFS roads in the Described Area. (See map…

McPhee Overlook Trail Seasonal Closure

The purpose of the seasonal closure of the McPhee Over Trail is to protect critical winter wildlife habitat.

Chicken Creek Ski Area Dog Restrictions

Dogs are not allowed in the Chicken Creek Ski Area from December 15 to March 15, annually in order to protect public safety.

La Plata Canyon Camping and Fire Restrictions

La Plata Canyon Camping and Fire Restrictions are in place to protect the natural resources in this beautiful, very popular area. Camping is prohibited outside of Forest Service designated camping areas (Darby, La Plata City, Bay City, Miners Cabin, and Madden Creek) and developed campgrounds…

Andrews Lake Camping Restrictions

Andrews Lake area is closed to camping in order to protect natural resources.

Hermosa Creek Wilderness Occupancy and Use Restrictions

In order to protect the National Forest System (NFS) lands and trails in the Hermosa Creek Wilderness, the following are prohibited:Entering or being upon a trail, campsite, or other area by a group larger than 15 people, with a maximum combination of people and stock not to exceed 25 in one…

Forest Wide Camping Stay Limits

In order to protect natural resources and to provide for public health and safety, the following are prohibited on National Forest System (NFS) lands in the San Juan National Forest:Camping, or leaving camping equipment at any location or within three (3) miles of any prior…

Chimney Rock National Monument Occupancy and Use Restrictions

The purpose of this Order is to protect the objects of the monument through implementing restrictions prescribed in the Chimney Rock National Monument (CRNM) Final Management Plan and Environmental Impact Statement (EIS).

Grizzly Peak Research Natural Area Special Closure Order

This order implements prohibitions necessary to provide protection of natural conditions and processes in order to facilitate research and education and maintain biological diversity – the purposes for which RNAs are established on National Forest System lands – within the Grizzly Peak RNA.

Lizard Head Wilderness Area Occupancy & Use

This Order is necessary to protect physical and biological resources of the Lizard Head Wilderness, and to protect the human experience of Wilderness character, solitude, and the untrammeled condition of the landscape.

Forest Orders

Visit our Forest Order page for a list of all the current Forest Orders: Closures, Fire Restrictions, and Camping, Occupancy, and Use Restrictions.Forest and Regional orders are generally temporary in nature and are designed to protect public safety and our natural resource. After review, Regional…

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.

GMUG National Forests begin prescribed fires

Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison (GMUG) National Forests are planning prescribed fire operations this spring, pending all required approvals. We estimate this work to continue through the summer as weather conditions allow. We use prescribed fires to help reduce overgrown vegetation to help…

Little Bear Campground and Island Lake Day Use Area, Roads and Trail Closure

The Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison (GMUG) National Forests’ Grand Valley Ranger District continues seasonal and year‑round closures for the Little Bear Campground, Island Lake day-use area and associated trails. These closures are required to ensure public safety during reconstruction…

Gold Creek Bridge Closure Order

The Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison (GMUG) National Forests’ Gunnison Ranger District to temporarily close Gold Creek Bridge and surrounding area for public safety during bridge reconstruction efforts starting March 17, 2026. The closure prohibits entry onto or travel on the bridge and…

Colorado Ski Safety Act

Order Number 2026-01 applies to areas under special use permits for Powderhorn, Telluride, and Crested Butte ski resorts on National Forest System lands within the Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre, and Gunnison National Forests. The order is intended to protect public safety and forest resources. The order…

Check Avalanche Conditions Before Heading Out

Avalanche conditions can change quickly. Before venturing into the backcountry, always check the latest avalanche forecast to stay safe and make informed decisions.Anyone venturing into the field should be cautious. Avoid avalanche terrain. View current conditions:…

Crested Butte Winter Recreation Management 2025-19

The Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison (GMUG) National Forests’ Gunnison Ranger District will implement annual winter travel restrictions beginning Dec. 31, 2025, through Dec. 31, 2030, in the Crested Butte Area.

Almont Triangle winter wildlife closure

The Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison (GMUG) National Forests’ Gunnison Ranger District is renewing the annual winter closure for the Almont Triangle area, which will span from Dec. 12 at 12 a.m. to April 30 at 11:59 p.m., and each subsequent year through 2030 from Dec. 1 at 12 a.m. to April…

Grand Mesa Winter Road Closure

The Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison (GMUG) National Forests’ Grand Valley Ranger District is temporarily closing several roads in Mesa County to ensure public safety while timber is being harvested in the area. The following roads will be closed to visitors Monday through Friday from Dec. 10…

Crystal Creek Road Closure

The purpose of this Order is to provide for public safety during the Bald Timber Sale.

Forest Hill Road and Area Closure

The purpose of this Order is to protect public health and safety due to the presence of mine tailings that contain elevated levels of lead and arsenic.

Collegiate Peaks Wilderness Occupancy and Use Regulations

To protect natural resources and wilderness character, this order describes prohibitions in the Collegiate Peaks Wilderness

Matterhorn Mill Site Area Closure

The purpose of this Order is to protect public safety and the historic Matterhorn Mill.

Taylor Park Reservoir Use Restrictions

The purpose of this Order is to protect natural resources from the zebra mussel/quagga mussel and other aquatic invasive species infestation.

Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness Area Occupancy & Use

The purpose of this Order is to mitigate the effects of high levels of use and to protect natural resources and wilderness character.

Crested Butte Area Camping and Fire Prohibitions

The purpose of this Order is to protect natural resources and public safety, as well as to provide high-quality, sustainable recreational opportunities for visitors.

Tincup Camping Restrictions

The purpose of this Order is to reduce the risk of human-caused wildfire and to protect public safety, natural resources, and property in the Tincup area.

Taylor Canyon and Reservoir Camping Restrictions

The purpose of this Order is to protect Forest visitors, to protect NFS resources and to provide quality recreational opportunities for visitors in the Taylor River Corridor of the Gunnison National Forests

Food and Refuse Storage Order

The purpose of this Order is to is to protect public safety and wildlife by minimizing human-wildlife interactions.

Doctor Park (NFS Trail 424) Seasonal Closure

The purpose of this Order is to provide seasonal resource protection for migrating bighorn sheep.

Irwin Lodge Road Closure

The purpose of this Order is to provide for public health and safety and to avoid visitor conflicts.

Lizard Head Wilderness Area Occupancy & Use

This Order is necessary to protect physical and biological resources of the Lizard Head Wilderness, and to protect the human experience of Wilderness character, solitude, and the untrammeled condition of the landscape.

Uncompahgre Wilderness Area Occupancy & Use

This Order is necessary to protect physical and biological resources of the Uncompahgre Wilderness, and to protect the human experience of Wilderness character, solitude, and the untrammeled condition of the landscape.

Mount Sneffels Wilderness Area Occupancy & Use

This Order is necessary to protect physical and biological resources of the Mount Sneffels Wilderness, and to protect the human experience of Wilderness character, solitude, and the untrammeled condition of the landscape.

La Garita Wilderness Area Occupancy & Use

This Order is necessary to protect physical and biological resources of the La Garita Wilderness, and to protect the human experience of Wilderness character, solitude, and the untrammeled condition of the landscape.

Powderhorn Wilderness Area Occupancy & Use

This Order is necessary to protect physical and biological resources of the Powderhorn Wilderness, and to protect the human experience of Wilderness character, solitude, and the untrammeled condition of the landscape.

Fossil Ridge Wilderness Area Occupancy & Use

This Order is necessary to protect physical and biological resources of the Fossil Ridge Wilderness and Fossil Ridge Recreation Management Area, and to protect the human experience of Wilderness character, solitude, and the untrammeled condition of the landscape.

Perimeter Trail Winter Closure

The purpose of this Order is to protect a bighorn sheep winter concentration area.

General Occupancy and Use on the Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests

This Order is necessary to protect Forest visitors, to protect the resources of the National Forest System within the Restricted Area, and to provide quality recreational opportunities for visitors.

West Elk Wilderness Area Occupancy & Use

This Order is necessary to protect physical and biological resources of the West Elk Wilderness and to protect the human experience of Wilderness character, solitude, and the untrammeled condition of the landscape.

Raggeds Wilderness Area Occupancy & Use

This Order is necessary to protect physical and biological resources of the Raggeds Wilderness and to protect the human experience of Wilderness character, solitude, and the untrammeled condition of the landscape.

Fire Weather Watch issued April 10 at 11:47PM MDT until April 13 at 9:00PM MDT by NWS Pueblo CO

April 10th, 11:47 PM — 4:00 PM

The National Weather Service in Pueblo has issued a Red Flag Warning for gusty winds and low relative humidity, which is in effect from 11 AM to 9 PM MDT Sunday. The Fire Weather Watch for Sunday is no longer in effect. A new Fire Weather Watch for gusty winds and low relative humidity has been issued for Monday morning through Monday evening. * AFFECTED AREA...Fire Weather Zones 222, 224, 226, 227, 228, 229, 230, 231, 232, 233, 234, 235, 236 and 237. * TIMING...For the Red Flag Warning, from 11 AM to 9 PM MDT Sunday. For the Fire Weather Watch, from Monday morning through Monday evening. * WINDS...Southwest 20 to 30 mph with gusts up to 55 mph. * RELATIVE HUMIDITY...As low as 7 percent. * IMPACTS...Extreme fire danger is expected. Fires will uncontrollably spread and be very destructive.

Red Flag Warning issued April 10 at 11:47PM MDT until April 12 at 9:00PM MDT by NWS Pueblo CO

April 10th, 11:47 PM — 4:00 PM

The National Weather Service in Pueblo has issued a Red Flag Warning for gusty winds and low relative humidity, which is in effect from 11 AM to 9 PM MDT Sunday. The Fire Weather Watch is no longer in effect. * AFFECTED AREA...Fire Weather Zones 220, 221 and 225. * TIMING...From 11 AM to 9 PM MDT Sunday. * WINDS...Southwest 20 to 30 mph with gusts up to 45 mph. * RELATIVE HUMIDITY...As low as 11 percent. * IMPACTS...Elevated fire danger is expected. Fires will catch and spread rapidly and erratically.

Red Flag Warning issued April 10 at 11:47PM MDT until April 12 at 9:00PM MDT by NWS Pueblo CO

April 10th, 11:47 PM — 4:00 PM

The National Weather Service in Pueblo has issued a Red Flag Warning for gusty winds and low relative humidity, which is in effect from 11 AM to 9 PM MDT Sunday. The Fire Weather Watch for Sunday is no longer in effect. A new Fire Weather Watch for gusty winds and low relative humidity has been issued for Monday morning through Monday evening. * AFFECTED AREA...Fire Weather Zones 222, 224, 226, 227, 228, 229, 230, 231, 232, 233, 234, 235, 236 and 237. * TIMING...For the Red Flag Warning, from 11 AM to 9 PM MDT Sunday. For the Fire Weather Watch, from Monday morning through Monday evening. * WINDS...Southwest 20 to 30 mph with gusts up to 55 mph. * RELATIVE HUMIDITY...As low as 7 percent. * IMPACTS...Extreme fire danger is expected. Fires will uncontrollably spread and be very destructive.

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.

Fall/Winter Slash Pile Burns Planned

Rio Grande National Forest announced today their winter slash pile burning plans. As conditions allow, fire crews plan to burn numerous piles of woody debris from timber sale and thinning project areas across the Rio Grande National Forest. This year’s pile burn areas include:Saguache Ranger…

Motor Vehicle Seasonal Groomed Road Closures

This special order is to protect public safety by preventing damage to groomed snowmobile and cross-country ski routes.

Wolf Creek Pass Winter Recreation Area

This special order restricts parking, camping and snowmobile use at Wolf Creek Pass.

Food Storage Regulations

This special order covers food storage restrictions from April 1 to December 1 annually,  within recreation sites across the entire Rio Grande National Forest. The purpose of this Order to protect wildlife and human safety by reducing the risk of adverse interactions between bears and humans.

Sangre de Cristo Wilderness Occupancy & Use

This special order covers the entire Sangre de Cristo Wilderness Area including the portion on the San Isabel National Forest. The includes restrictions on group size, camping, campfires, horse use, dogs, switchback cutting, and wagon or cart use.

Beaver Creek Recreation Area Use Restrictions

This special order restricts camping, parking, and dogs in the Beaver Creek Recreation Area. It also prohibits boats at Million Reservoir.

Big Meadows Recreation Area Use Regulations

This special order prohibits camping, parking, campfire and stove use, and restricts dogs within the Big Meadows Recreation area on the Divide Ranger District.

Camping limit on Rio Grande National Forest

This special order establishes a 14-day camping limit within a continuous 30-day period anywhere on the Rio Grande National Forest.

La Garita Wilderness Use Restrictions

This special order covers the entire La Garita Wilderness area including portions on the Gunnison National Forest. The order restricts group size, camping, campfire and stove use, equipment storing, horse use, dogs, and cutting switchbacks on trails.

Weminuche Wilderness and South San Juan Wilderness Restrictions

This special order restricts group use, horse use, camping, campfires, and dogs in the Weminuche and South San Juan Wilderness Areas.

Spectacle Lake Restriction

This special order prohibits anyone from being in Spectacle Lake due to biological considerations.

Camping Restriction N. Crestone Trailhead

This special order restricts camping at the North Crestone Trailhead.

Forest Road #950 N. Crestone Closure

This special order closes  FSR # 950, near Crestone,  seasonally from November 25 to May 1 annually.

Park Creek Road Speed Limit

This special order establishes a 25 MPH speed limit on FSR # 380 Park Creek Road.

Alamosa Canyon Speed Limit

This special order establishes a speed limit of 20 MPH or less on FSR # 250 in the Alamosa Canyon.

Rito Hondo Day Use Area

This special order restricts parking, camping, boat use, and campfire use around the  Rito Hondo Dam.

Road Canyon Reservoir Day Use Area

This special order restricts parking, camping and campfire uses in the area around Road Canyon Reservoir #1.

Conejos Canyon Roads and Camping Restrictions

This special order restricts the vehicle use and parking and limits camping to designated areas on FSR# 250 along the Conejos River.

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.

Turquoise Lake Road (County Road 4) Closure

To prioritize public safety, Turquoise Lake Road (County Road 4) has been closed due to asphalt damage. The road is barricaded from the Abe Lee parking turnoff to Hagerman Pass. Access to Turquoise Lake is still available via County Road 9C and County Road 9 to the Hagerman Pass intersection. The…

Pike National Forest Recreational Target Shooting Restrictions

This order affects the Pikes Peak, South Park and South Platte ranger districts. The purpose of this order is to protect natural resources and public health and safety.

Fireworks, Explosives and Sparks Restrictions

To prevent fires and for public safety order 03-00-23-001 prohibits to 1) possess, discharge, or use any kind of firework or other pyrotechnic devices; 2) use explosives; or 3) operate an internal or external combustion engine without a spark arresting device in effective working order.

Motor Vehicle Order Road Restrictions

The purpose of this Order is for the protection of public health and safety and prohibits: Using any type of vehicle that does not comply with an applicable state law.Using a road for commercial hauling without a permit or written authorization.Operating a vehicle in violation of speed, load,…

Cannabis Possession Prohibited

Order 03-00-00-21-002 prohibits possessing, storing, or transporting a cannabis plant, any part of a cannabis plant, or any substance derived from a cannabis plant within the Southwestern Region National Forests in the State of New Mexico and the National Grasslands in the states of Texas and…

Valle Vidal Annual Closures

Each year, portions of the Valle Vidal close for the protection of one of New Mexico’s largest elk herds.The east side closes January 1 and reopens April 1 to protect wintering habitat. The closure includes Cimarron Campground, McCrystal Campground, and Shuree Ponds.Then the west side closes…

Valle Vidal Camping Restrictions

The following prohibitions are in effect within the Valle Vidal Unit:Camping on or within a half-mile of Forest Service roads (camping is allowed in Cimarron and McCrystal campgrounds when open).Camping within 100 yards of natural waters or within 300 yards of constructed waters.The purpose of…

Possession of Domestic Sheep or Goats

The following is prohibited to protect bighorn sheep from diseases transmitted by domestic sheep and goats:Possessing, storing, or transporting any domestic goat or sheep within the Congressionally designated boundaries of the Columbine-Hondo Wilderness AreaLatir Peaks Wilderness AreaPecos…

Current Fire Restrictions and Related Prohibitions

Fire managers will enact temporary fire restrictions at times of heightened fire danger to complement regional orders and national prohibitions.This page lists local, regional and national laws regarding the use of fire on the Carson National Forest. The text of each prohibition is listed with a…

Annual Summer Closure of Wheeler Peak, Williams Lake, and Surrounding Area

The Carson National Forest temporarily closes the Wheeler Peak and Williams Lake area each summer for about a week for local community, traditional purposes.The 2026 dates will be determined in the summer, but the closure has historically taken place in mid- to late August.The following trails will…

Seasonal Road Closures

Seasonal winter road closures for vehicles went into effect Jan. 1. Most will reopen around May 1. Visitors may still use the roads by other means, such as hiking, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.Closures and dates are broken down in a series of Motor Vehicle Use Maps (MVUM) by ranger…

Timber Harvest in Progress Near Pot Creek, Taos

An active timber harvest for forest restoration is occurring on the Camino Real Ranger District off Forest Service Roads 115A, 115B, and 476*.For everyone's safety:Keep an eye out for logging truck signage and look for dust from haul traffic to anticipate encounters.Listen for trucks/equipment…

Pile Burning Updates

Check this alert for daily pile burning updates from across the forest.

Collapsed Bridge on the West Fork Santa Barbara Trail (#25)

A bridge over the Middle Fork Rio Santa Barbara in the Pecos Wilderness has collapsed. It's located on the West Fork Santa Barbara Trail (#25) and is: 2.3 miles from the Santa Barbara Trailhead~0.25-mile from the Middle Fork (#24)/West Fork (#25) intersection.Use 36.054280°, -105.615395° to…

Douglas-Fir Tussock Moth Outbreak

Recently browned trees to the south of Taos, N.M., are the result of an outbreak of Douglas-fir tussock moths, which are currently in their larval (caterpillar) stage. Proceed with caution when around them. Specific locations include general forest areas along Highway 518 south of Pot Creek and…

Placer Fork Trail Flooding

A beaver dam has caused flooding on the Placer Fork Trail (#72), just east of its junction with the Columbine Canyon Trail (#71). Visitors report it is not safely passable.

Capulin Trail and Related Road Access Closed to Vehicles

The Capulin Trail (#494), as well as a portion of Forest Road 10AA, is temporarily closed to vehicles (motorcycles, ATVs and e-bikes, classes 1-3). For background on the closure, read the news release.DocumentationForest OrderMap

Occupancy and Use

Covers stay limits, alcoholic beverages, parking and public nudity.

Significant Deadfall on Trails: Comales, Midnight, Sawmill Trails

Travel is not recommended on the following trails or trail segments due to blowdown from a severe windstorm in Dec. 2021. Trail crews continue work through the backlog:Comales Canyon Trail: About 200 deadfall are blocking the the eastern half of the loop near the junctions with the Comales Cutoff…

Fawn Lakes Drained

Heavy spring runoff in 2019 broke the dam and damaged the sidewalk, pullouts and pier. Forest staff are working with partners to identify funding and options for the future of fishing in this area.The adjacent campground remains open for the spring and summer seasons.

PSICC Stage 1 Fire Restrictions

This order affects all districts on the Pike-San Isabel National Forests & Cimarron and Comanche National Grasslands.The purpose of this order is to protect natural resources and public health and safety.

Seasonal Prohibition of Motor Vehicles on Roads and Trails

This order affects the South Park Ranger District.The purpose of this Order is to protect wildlife by implementing specific seasonal road and trail closures identified in the September 26, 2022, Final Record of Decision for the Pike-San Isabel National Forests Motorized Travel Management (MVUM)…

Eagle Rock and Observatory Rock Occupancy and Use Restrictions

This order affects the South Park Ranger District.The purpose of the Order is to protect active nest sites of bald eagles and golden eagles pursuant to the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act (16 U.S.C. §§ 668-668d) and the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918 (16 U.S.C. §§ 703–712).

Downed and weakened trees on South Platte Ranger District

Due to sustained high winds from the last stormfront, expect to see many downed and weakened trees on roads and trails in the South Platte Ranger District.Be mindful that, even if a tree looks okay, it may be weakened and could fall. Forest Service crews are working on clearing trees over the next…

Seasonal area closure for Rock Climbing near Devils Head Trailhead

This order affects the South Platte Ranger District.Please note that this closure is only in effect between March 1 and July 31 of each year.The purpose of this Order is to protect American peregrine falcons, a species protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.Please see the attached document…

Buffalo Peaks Wilderness Occupancy and Use Restrictions

This order affects the Leadville, Salida and South Park ranger districts.This order is necessary to protect physical and biological resources of the Buffalo Peaks Wilderness and to protect the character, solitude and condition of this wilderness.Please see the attached document for more…

Wigwam Spur Trail, NFST 609.A closure

This order affects the South Park Ranger District.The purpose of this Order is to protect public health and safety and a sensitive riparian habitat from further damage.

Trinchera Road and Vicinity Closure Order

This order affects the San Carlos Ranger District.The purpose of this Order is to protect public health and safety by prohibiting entry into the associated road and surrounding area while logging operations are underway.Please see the attached document for more information and associated maps.

South Platte Ranger District Over-Snow Vehicle Use

This order affects the South Platte Ranger District.The purpose of this Order is to protect natural resources.Please see the attached document for more information and associated maps.

Mount Evans Wilderness Occupancy and Use Restrictions

This order affects the South Platte Ranger District.The purpose of this order is to protect natural resources and wilderness character.Please see the attached document for more information and associated maps.

Lost Creek Wilderness Occupancy and Use Restrictions

This order affects the South Park and South Platte ranger districts.The purpose of this order is to protect natural resources and wilderness character.Please see the attached document for more information and associated maps.

Mount Massive Wilderness Occupancy and Use Restrictions

This order affects the Leadville Ranger District.The purpose of this order is to protect natural resources and wilderness character.Please see the attached document for more information and associated maps.

Collegiate Peak Wilderness Occupancy and Use Restrictions

This order affects the Leadville and Salida ranger districts.The purpose of this order is to protect natural resources and wilderness character.Please see the attached document for more information and associated maps.

Waldo Canyon Burn Area Closure

This order affects the Pikes Peak Ranger District.The purpose of this order is to protect natural resources and public health and safety due to impacts of the Waldo Canyon fire.Please see the attached document for more information and associated maps.

Sangre de Cristo Wilderness Area Occupancy and Use Regulations

This order affects the San Carlos and Salida ranger districts.The purpose of this order is to protect natural resources.Please see the attached document for more information and associated maps.

Greenhorn Mountain Wilderness and Spanish Peaks Wilderness Occupancy and Use Restrictions

This order affects the San Carlos Ranger District.The purpose of this order is to protect natural resources.Please see the attached document for more information and associated maps.

Pike National Forest Occupancy and Use Restrictions

This order affects the Pikes Peak, South Platte and South Park ranger districts.The purpose of this order is to protect natural resources and public health and safety.Please see the attached document for more information and associated maps.

Cimarron and Comanche National Grasslands Occupancy and Use Prohibitions

This order affects the Cimarron and Comanche National Grasslands.The purpose of this order is to protect natural resources and public health and safety.Please see the attached document for more information and associated maps.

San Isabel National Forest Occupancy and Use Restrictions

This order affects the Leadville, Salida and San Carlos ranger districts.The purpose of this order is to protect natural resources and public health and safety.Please see the attached document for more information and associated maps.

South Catamount Dam Repair

This order affects the Pikes Peak Ranger District.The purpose of this order is to protect public safety during Colorado Springs Utilities South Catamount Dam repair.Please see the attached document for more information and associated maps.

East Bear Gulch Trail Seasonal Closure Order

This order affects the San Carlos Ranger District.The purpose of this order is to protect the peregrine falcon (Falco peregrinus) nesting sites. The peregrine falcon is listed by Colorado Parks and Wildlife as a species of State Special Concern, and guidelines have been identified that calls for no…

Food Storage Prohibitions on Pike-San Isabel National Forests

This order affects the Pikes Peak, South Platte, South Park, Leadville, Salida and San Carlos ranger districts.The purpose of the order is to protect public safety by minimizing adverse interactions between bears and humans.Please see the document below for more information and associated maps.

Castle Rock Area Closure

This order affects the Salida Ranger District.The purpose of the order is to protect an active golden eagle nest site.Please see the document below for more information and associated maps.

Holy Cross Wilderness Prohibitions

This order affects the Leadville Ranger District.The purpose of this order is to protect natural resources and wilderness character by managing recreational use within the Holy Cross Wilderness.Please see the attached document for more information and associated maps.

Occupancy and Use Prohibitions Pertaining to Lakes

This order affects the Leadville, Salida, San Carlos, Pikes Peak, South Park and South Platte ranger districts.The purpose of this order is to protect natural resources and public safety.Please see the document below for more information and associated maps.

Rampart Range Road 300 Winter Closure

This order affects the Pikes Peak Ranger District.The purpose of this order is to protect public safety and natural resources.Please see the attached document for more information and associated maps.

Crags Winter Area Closure

This order affects the Pikes Peak Ranger District.The purpose of this order is to protect public safety and natural resources.Please see the document below for more information and associated maps.

Bear Creek Watershed Restoration Project Occupancy and Use Restrictions

This order affects the Pikes Peak Ranger District.The purpose of this order is to implement requirements of the July 17, 2016, final Decision Notice for the Bear Creek Watershed Restoration Project designed to protect a unique population of greenback cutthroat trout, a threatened species under the…

Occupancy and Use Restrictions with Designated Camping and Parking Areas

This order affects the South Platte Ranger District.The purpose of this order is to protect natural resources and public health and safety.Please see the attached document for more information and associated maps.

East Indian Creek Road Closure

This order affects the San Carlos Ranger District.The purpose of this order is to protect public safety due to erosion and flooding in the area affected by the Spring Creek Fire.Please see the attached document for more information and associated maps.

Badger Flats Occupancy and Use Restrictions

This order affects the South Park Ranger District.The purpose of this order is to protect natural resources and public health and safety.Please see the attached document for more information and associated maps.

Prohibition on Camping in Areas Posted as Closed to Camping

This order affects all districts on the Pike-San Isabel National Forests & Cimarron and Comanche National Grasslands.The purpose of this order is for protection of public health and safety and resource protection due to flood potential and environmental and facilities damage within the Hayman Burn…

Seasonal Restriction on Dogs Near Section House and Wagon Cabin

This order affects the South Park Ranger District.This order is needed to protect the health and safety of the public staying at the huts through the winter months. Melted snow provides the water source. To prevent fecal contamination of this water source, it is essential that dogs are not…

Overview

Rio Grande National Forest encompasses 1.86 million acres in south-central Colorado, forming a forested ring around the San Luis Valley. The forest is currently open year-round with several important regulations in effect. A 14-day camping limit within any continuous 30-day period is enforced forest-wide. Food storage restrictions apply from April 1 to December 1 annually at all recreation sites to protect wildlife. Winter slash pile burns are planned through winter as conditions allow. Key wilderness restrictions are in place for the Sangre de Cristo, La Garita, Weminuche, and South San Juan Wilderness areas, including group size limits, campfire regulations, and stock use rules. The forest offers 33 campgrounds with over 651 sites, most operated by private concessionaires. The Continental Divide runs 236 miles along the western border. Current fire restrictions are active on Conejos Peak, Divide, and Saguache districts. No major closures are in effect, though some seasonal road closures and specific area restrictions apply. The forest transitioned to a new web platform in April 2025, so some content may still be updating.

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