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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Forest Road 639South Road Restriction
Vehicles will be restricted on Forest Road 639South near Truchas, N.M., from October 1 at 6:00 a.m. to October 14 at 11:59 p.m. during a road improvement project. Work includes road reconditioning, drain dip construction and the removal or replacement of several culverts.Non-motorized access will… -
El Rito Campground Rolling Site Closures
El Rito Campground sites and the group shelter will be intmittantly closed through mid-November to faciliate a river restoration and access project.SiteClosedReopenedGroup ShelterSeptember 26October 5Site #1September 26October 12Site #2September 26October 12Site #3September 26October 19Site… -
Seasonal Road Restrictions
Seasonal road designations restrict vehicle use throughout the year on different Forest Service roads for different periods of time to protect wintering and calving habitat for big game as well as protecting soil and watersheds. -
Timber Harvest in Progress Near Pot Creek, Taos
Practice caution on Forest Roads 115A, 115B, and 476 as timber hauling occurs. -
Mogote Ridge Fire Closures: CDT and Nearby Roads
The following is closed due to the Mogote Ridge Fire:ClosedDescriptionContinental Divide National Scenic TrailBetween Forest Service Roads 724 and 559 (also known as County Road 280 and N.M. State Road 110). Detour using 724 and 559 (view map)Forest Service Road 406AReopenedForest Service Road… -
Annual Summer Closure of Wheeler Peak, Williams Lake, and Surrounding Area
Dates for the 2027 temporary closure of the Wheeler Peak and Williams Lake area for local community, traditional purposes are expected in July 2027. -
Closure of Hopewell Lake Campground/Day Use Area, Portion of Continental Divide Trail
Rebabilitation of Hopewell Lake recreation facilities will prompt a closure beginning August 17, 2026. The following will be closed:Hopewell Lake CampgroundHopewell Lake Day Use AreaContinental Divide National Scenic Trail between Hopewell Lake Campground and Highway 64Forest Service Roads 356 and… -
Road Restriction on Forest Road 1900 in Valle Vidal
Carson National Forest staff will restrict motor vehicle use on Costilla Dam Road (1900) in the Valle Vidal beginning August 14 to make way for a culvert replacement and aquatic passage restoration. Project work is expected to last one month but could take longer.Visitors will still be allowed to… -
Current Wildfire Activity
A list of any current wildfires. -
Current Fire Restrictions and Related Prohibitions
A list of temporary fire restrictions subject to daily changes. -
Water Systems Out of Service at Some Recreation Sites
A list of water systems currently offline at recreation sites for seasonal water testing or longer term repairs. -
Currently Impassable Trails and Trail Sections
A list of trails and trail sections not currently recommended for travel. -
Valle Vidal Camping Restrictions
To protect wildlife habitat, camping on or within a half mile of Forest Service roads, or within 100 yards of natural waters or within 300 yards of constructed waters is prohibited in Valle Vidal. -
Possession of Domestic Sheep or Goats
To protect bighorn sheep from disease, possessing, storing or transporting any domestic goat or sheep within Wilderness Areas in the Carson NF is prohibited. -
Valle Vidal Annual Closures
Annual seasonal closures in the Valle Vidal for the protection of one of New Mexico’s largest elk herds. -
Collapsed Bridge on the West Fork Santa Barbara Trail (#25)
A bridge over the Middle Fork Rio Santa Barbara in the Pecos Wilderness has collapsed. It's located on the West Fork Santa Barbara Trail (#25). -
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). For background on the closure, read the news release. -
Occupancy and Use
Covers stay limits, alcoholic beverages, parking and public nudity. -
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.