Weather-related road closure in effect: Senator Hwy, Horsethief Basin and Big Bug Mesa areas

Prescott, ARIZONA, March 14, 2025—Temporary road closures went into effect today for Senator Highway, and in the Horsethief Basin and Big Bug Mesa areas.  The purpose of these emergency road closures is to protect public health and safety, as well as to prevent resource damage during winter storms. These closures will remain in effect through March 27, 2025, at 6:00 a.m., unless rescinded earlier.

Vehicle travel during wet weather in both areas has historically resulted in numerous stuck vehicles and deeply rutted roads.  Stuck vehicles threaten the safety of both passengers and search and rescue personnel.  Damage to roads can make roads impassable and is costly to repair.  

Road Closures in the Horsethief Basin Area:

• Forest Order #03-09-03-25-04 and Area Map
• NFSR 52 (Senator Highway) start6ing from the intersection with NFSR 261 (Poland Rd.) then south for approximately 17.6 miles to the junction with Crown King Road (CR59) then continuing an additional 4.9 miles to the Horsethief Basin Recreation Area. In addition and including:
• NFSR 52 (Horsethief Road), from the entry to Horsethief Basin to Horsethief Lookout Tower
• NFSR 52J (Horsethief Lake Road)
• NFSR 52K (Hazelett Hollow)
• NFSR 52F (Turney Gulch)
• NFSR 52G (Horsethief Seasonal Home Area)
• NFSR 697 (Twin Peaks)
• NFSR 696 (Coal Camp)
• NFSR 9236B (Unnamed)

Road Closures in the Big Bug Mesa Area:

• Forest Order #03-09-03-25-03 and Area Map
• NFS Roads (“NFSRs”) 103, 103A, 103B, and 9270H (on Big Bug Mesa), starting at the “Five Corners” intersection (NFSRs 103, 670 and NFSR 261/CR58/Poland Road), then continuing to their terminations.
• NFSR 22 (on Big Bug Mesa) starting at the junction with NFS Road 103, then following south for approximately 2.9 miles until the end of road.

While these road closures expire on March 27, 2025, either may be reactivated during future periods of heavy monsoon rains or wet, snowy weather upon specific dates as set forth by the Forest Supervisor, Deputy Forest Supervisor, Bradshaw and Chino Valley District Ranger, or other delegated official.