Alerts
Forest Alerts
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Annual Closure of Wheeler Peak, Williams Lake and Surrounding Area
The Carson National Forest closes an area in and around the Wheeler Peak Wilderness each summer for about a week for community traditional purposes. 2025 dates are yet to be determined. -
High-Elevation Snow Conditions
A storm on May 4, 2025, dropped an estimated foot of snow in high-elevation areas of the forest, adding depth to a pre-existing base of up to an estimated 75 inches in some areas.
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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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Valle Vidal West Side Closure
Each year, portions of the Valle Vidal close for the protection of one of New Mexico’s largest elk herds. The west side closure is currently in effect.
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Seasonal Road Closures
Seasonal winter road closures for vehicles went into effect Jan. 1. Most will reopen around May 1. Visitors may still use the roads by other means, such as hiking, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.
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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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Occupancy and Use
Covers stay limits, alcoholic beverages, parking and public nudity. -
Comales Canyon Trail Deadfall
About 200 deadfall are blocking the the eastern half of the loop near the junctions with the Comales Cutoff (#22A) and Bear Mountain (#28) trails.
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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.