Visitors eager to drive to their favorite spot in the San Juan National Forest may have to wait a little longer. Snow continues to delay forest officials from assessing winter damage, performing cleanup and opening roads and campgrounds for the season.
Some closed roads may appear dry at lower elevations. However, a short distance up the hill, snow, mud, or washouts keep roads from being opened fully. Other roads may be opened at lower elevations, but temporarily barricaded where road conditions make travel hazardous.
After May 1, last year’s fire-related closures have expired, but winter conditions are similar across the forest and are delaying access. The Forest Service is asking for patience from the public and asking people to refrain from around barricades until areas can be assessed and opened.
Visitors are encouraged to check the latest campground and road status on the Forest Service websites listed below for the area you wish to travel. Efforts will be made to keep lists current.
For more information:
Campground Status: bit.ly/2VybUpR
Road status in Pagosa Ranger District (RD): bit.ly/2IYd9Zd
Road status in Columbine Ranger District: bit.ly/2ZJGuvI
Road status in Dolores Ranger District: bit.ly/2DKOhQN
Those without internet access can call one of our offices from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday:
San Juan Public Lands Center: 247-4874.
Pagosa Ranger District: 264-2268.
Columbine Ranger District: 884-2512.
Dolores Ranger District: 882-7296.