The Journal
The Dolores Ranger District will temporarily close several San Juan National Forest Service roads to motorized traffic, as well as one non-motorized trail for wildlife-protection purposes on Dec. 1.
The motorized roads to be closed are:
Forest Service Road 504, Dolores River below McPhee Dam.Forest Roads 528 and 529D, House Creek area.Forest Roads 240 and 241, Black Snag and Ryman Creek area.Forest Road 568, Railroad grade near Mancos Hill.The McPhee Overlook Trail from the town of Dolores to House Creek Campground also will be closed.
The roads and trail will reopen May 1, 2020.
Seasonal road closures protect critical habitat for deer and elk in winter and early spring when temperatures are cold, snow is deep and food is scarce. During these critical times, human disturbance can threaten the survival of deer and elk, especially pregnant does.
Visitors to the national forest should be prepared to encounter additional closed gates across the Dolores District as winter conditions develop.
Even if snow levels are not very deep, many roads will be closed to prevent damage to road surfaces during freezing and thawing periods. These roads will open in the spring as conditions allow.
Travelers should always be prepared for winter conditions and travel with shovels, tire chains and appropriate safety equipment necessary for winter conditions.
For more information, call 882-7296 or visit www.fs.usda.gov/main/sanjuan/maps-pubs.