The Journal
Travel to the upper reaches of San Juan National Forest continues to pose challenges. Because of a historic avalanche season, late-season snow and wet conditions, some recreation areas or roads are still inaccessible.
Debris movement through waterways, culverts, across trails and high-water runoff continues. Dead trees can fall at any time. Don’t camp or park near dead or discolored trees and keep away during strong winds. Call the Ranger District to check local conditions when planning a visit.
Upper elevation campgrounds and popular dispersed camping sites remain under snow. Current campground, road, and trail information can be found on the San Juan National Forest website www.fs.usda.gov/sanjuan.
Wilderness travelers can expect challenges with route finding, swift creek crossings, icy passes, and debris-blocked trails. Areas affected by fires, such as Hermosa, Burro and Plateau areas, reopened earlier this month, but some trails may be impassable because of burned-area hazards such as falling trees, unstable soils and debris flows.
Bicycles and motorized vehicles are required to stay on designated trails in the Hermosa Creek Watershed Special Management Area. San Juan National Forest officials are warning that people are entering burned areas is at their own risk.
Saturated soils have can cause landslides and road slumping. Be prepared to turn around when slides cross roads or roads have eroded away. As personnel and time allow, trail clearing and reconstruction will be targeted where needed.
