Doctor Park Trail Closed for Seasonal Wildlife Protection

Gunnison, Colorado, March 10, 2025 — The Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison (GMUG) National Forests’ Gunnison Ranger District reminds visitors that National Forest System Trail (NFST) #424–Doctor Park trail closed to all uses on March 1 and will remain closed through the Friday before Memorial Day. 

This annual seasonal closure provides protection for bighorn sheep during a critical time when they are most vulnerable to disturbance. The trail will reopen for hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking and two-wheeled motorized travel once the seasonal restriction ends. 

“This temporary closure is essential for the health of wintering bighorn sheep,” said Dayle Funka, Gunnison District Ranger. “Even one human disturbance per day can negatively impact the survival rate of the herd.” 

Accessing NFST #424–Doctor Park trail for any activity during the wildlife-sensitive closure period is prohibited. Forest officials appreciate the public’s cooperation in protecting local wildlife. Details on the Doctor Park trail closure, including a map, can be found on our website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/gmug/alerts-notices/?cid=stelprdb5395575. 

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The Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre & Gunnison National Forests manage approximately 3 million acres of land in Southwest Colorado within Delta, Garfield, Gunnison, Hinsdale, Mesa, Montrose, Ouray, Saguache, San Juan and San Miguel counties.