Proceed with caution

This winter has wreaked havoc on more than our lower backs. The San Juan National Forest reports that heavy snow, in addition to wildfires, dead and dying trees, and debris flows over the last year have taken a toll on popular recreation areas.

As a result, the Forest Service is asking folks traveling into the backcountry in coming weeks to exercise caution and patience. Travelers should anticipate washed out or debris-blocked trails, trails that are difficult to find, and dead or fire-weakened trees “that may fall at any time.” In addition, this year’s big snowpack will likely delay normal road-opening dates.

It is likely one of the first areas to thaw out will be the lower end of the Hermosa Creek Special Management Area (SMA), home to the popular Hermosa Creek Trail as well as the epicenter of last summer’s 416 Fire. While the Forest Service is still assessing the damage, it reminds users to resist the temptation to create social trails around blockages. “Both motorized and mechanized vehicles (bicycles) must stay on designated roads and trails,” a Forest Service press release this week stated. “Where trails are blocked or impassable, visitors are not allowed to create a route off the trail to gain access.”

User-built trails and riding in undesignated areas can cause erosion, loss of wildlife habitat and other natural resource damage. “You can help balance popular public use with the sustainability of natural resources,” read the release. “Please ensure your trek outdoors is a positive one. Know what you’re doing, how to do it right, and how to do it safely.”

Heavy snowpack has also taken a toll on local wildlife. As a result, Colorado Parks and Wildlife has extended closures on Durango state wildlife areas and BLM lands. The winter closures, which typically lift April 15, have been extended to May 1. The closures apply to Bodo and Perins Peak state wildlife areas and BLM land on Animas Mountain, Grandview, Sale Barn and Big Canyon.

“Even though the weather has been warm recently, elk and deer have been more stressed this winter and are coming into spring in worse body condition than normal,” Matt Thorpe, Durango area wildlife manager, said. Elk and deer are still concentrated in low-elevation because snow at higher elevation remains deep. Human activity could cause them to unnecessarily burn energy they need to survive the spring.

Durango received more than 48 inches of snow in February, compared to the average of 15. The Smelter Mountain Trail is open to hiking from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. but no dogs are allowed.