Bighorn National Forest Seasonal Road Closures

The dry winter and low snowpack have created a new issue for users and managers of the Bighorn National Forest. Sheridan Media’s Ron Richter has the details.

Many routes that are typically snow bound this time of year in the Bighorn National Forest  now look inviting and open enough to drive in a wheeled vehicle. Officials with the Forest Service issued a reminder to always check to make sure the road or trail is legally open to the type of vehicle you are driving. Tongue District Ranger Amy Ormseth said seasonal road closures are in place for a lot of reasons, one is to protect snowmobile trails and the road from damage as roads and trails are the most vulnerable when they are wet and muddy.

Ormseth added that when damage occurs on a trail or road and road crews are unable to make repairs right away, the damage can expand and possibly lead to longer closures. Recreationalists are asked to respect seasonal road and trail closures and stay off the routes until they fully open and dry. Snowmobile grooming is still occurring in locations throughout the Forest and more snow is expected in the forecast. If wheeled vehicles damage the trails now, it could make it worse for over-snow vehicles in the next few months. Damage slows the grooming process and can lead to impassible conditions in the spring. You can avoid potential injury, expensive tow bills, and/or damage to your vehicle by waiting until the trails or roads are open.