Access to some areas impacted by muddy conditions throughout the Bighorn National Forest

Spring snowmelt, rain, and heavy, wet snows make roads and trails highly susceptible to damage at this time of the year. Annual temporary closures are in place on some routes to protect resources and minimize future high maintenance costs. 

If your vehicle is creating ruts in the road, please refrain from using that road until it dries out. Likewise, respect all closures and avoid wet and muddy trails. Please do not attempt to drive around remaining snow drifts since this creates further damage.  

Refer to the Bighorn National Forest Motor Vehicle Use Map for all road opening and closing dates. Specific areas to be aware of at this time include the Shutts Flats Trail 430, which is closed to motorized wheeled vehicles annually from November 15 through June 14. The Story/Penrose Trail 033 is closed to motorized vehicles annually from April 1 through June 15.

Please review the Bighorn National Forest Motor Vehicle Use Map or contact the Bighorn National Forest at 307-674-2600 in Sheridan or 307-684-7806 in Buffalo for more details. 

For Forest information including current closures and restrictions, visit our website https://fs.usda.gov/r02/bighorn or visit Facebook (US Forest Service – Bighorn National Forest).