Forest Service order protects Mount Evans scenic gateway

Release Date: May 13, 2015

IDAHO SPRINGS, Colo.– To improve public safety and protect national resources, the U.S. Forest Service has closed National Forest System lands along a portion of Colo. Highway 103 to camping, campfires and other overnight uses. The closure applies to areas on the Arapaho National Forest within a quarter mile of Highway 103 between Idaho Springs and County Road 114.

Located along Chicago Creek, the lower portion of this road includes a complex mix of public land, private property and residences. In recent years, areas along the highway have been impacted by users who leave trash behind and abandon campfires without extinguishing them properly.

“This closure will protect resources, ensure visitor safety, and preserve the scenic integrity of an area that draws more than 150,000 visitors from around the country every year,” Forest Supervisor Glenn Casamassa said. “Forest visitors travel this designated scenic byway to Mount Evans Recreation Area, which is one of the most popular recreation areas in the state.”

Highway 103 serves as a gateway to the Mount Evans Wilderness Area and Mount Goliath Natural Area and provides visitors an opportunity to drive the highest paved road in North America to the summit of a one of Colorado’s most famous 14’ers.“

Developed campgrounds with facilities are available further up the road at West Chicago Creek and Echo Lake, in addition to several developed picnic areas. Reservations for developed campgrounds on the Arapaho National Forest can be made at Recreation.gov.

Find it online:

Read the closure order: http://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/stelprd3835577.pdf

See a map online at http://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/stelprd3835580.pdf