Alerts
In addition to closures, prohibitions and fire restrictions, this list includes a snapshot of significant known issues across Carson National Forest. However, the forest is 1.5 million acres and some issues may not be known for severeal weeks or even months in less visisted areas. To report an issue, contact forest staff.
For general conditions by season, vist the Current Conditions.
Forest Alerts
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Temporary Closure of Wheeler Peak, Williams Lake and Surrounding Area
The Carson National Forest will temporarily close the Wheeler Peak and Williams Lake area from Aug. 21 through Aug. 28, for local community, traditional purposes. -
Current Wildfire Activity
A list of any current and recent wildfires. -
Flash Flooding Potential
With heavy rainfall forecasted, visitors should be aware of the potential for flash floods, especially in areas around and downstream of the 2022 Hermits Peak-Calf Canyon burn scar, such as in Mora County.
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Agua Piedra Barrier Free Trail Flooding
Flooding caused by a beaver dam is covering the south end of the trail. Visitors with mobility devices may find it difficult to turn around.
The fishing piers remain accessible.
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Thinning in Progress in El Rito Canyon (Campground, Climbing Area)
Crews are conducting forest thinning in El Rito Canyon near El Rito Campground and El Rito Crags climbing area along State Road 110 (also referred to as Forest Road 559). Visitors can expect crews on and alongside the road, traffic and chainsaw noise.
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Douglas-Fir Tussock Moth Outbreak
Recently browned trees to the south of Taos, N.M., are the result of an outbreak of Douglas-fir tussock moths, which are currently in their larval (caterpillar) stage.
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Current Fire Restrictions and Related Prohibitions
Fire managers will enact temporary fire restrictions at times of heightened fire danger to complement regional orders and national prohibitions.
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Closure of Forest Road 17
Forest Roads 17 is currently closed for maintenance work.
Forest Road 439 reopened in July.
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Placer Fork Trail Flooding
A beaver dam has caused flooding on the Placer Fork Trail (#72), just east of its junction with the Columbine Canyon Trail (#71). Visitors report it is not safely passable.
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Capulin Trail and Related Road Access Closed to Vehicles
The Capulin Trail (#494), as well as a portion of Forest Road 10AA, is temporarily closed to vehicles (motorcycles, ATVs and e-bikes, classes 1-3).
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Brush Piles Along Highway 150 and Wheeler Peak Trail (#90)
Piles from forest thinning last year are visible throughout the Highway 150 corridor, including from campgrounds and trailheads, between the forest boundary and Taos Ski Valley. -
Occupancy and Use
Covers stay limits, alcoholic beverages, parking and public nudity. -
Significant Deadfall on Trails: Comales, Midnight, Sawmill Trails
Travel is not recommended on the following trails or trail segments due to blowdown from a severe windstorm in Dec. 2021. Trail crews continue work through the backlog:
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Fawn Lakes Drained
Heavy spring runoff in 2019 broke the dam and damaged the sidewalk, pullouts and pier. Forest staff are working with partners to identify funding and options for the future of fishing in this area.
The adjacent campground remains open for the spring and summer seasons.