Skip to main content

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.

View Closure Map

Forest Alerts

  • Currently Impassable Trails and Trail Sections

    A list of trails and trail sections not currently recommended for travel.
    Alert Start Date: April 16, 2026

  • Office Closure (Tres Piedras): April 23

    The Tres Piedras Ranger Station, which is open on Thursdays weekly, will be closed on April 23 for staff training. It will reopen for normal hours April 30.
    Alert Start Date: April 13, 2026

  • Valle Vidal Annual Closures

    Annual seasonal closures in the Valle Vidal for the protection of one of New Mexico’s largest elk herds.
    Alert Start Date: March 25, 2026
    Forest Order: #03-02-07-26-04

  • 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.
    Alert Start Date: March 25, 2026
    Forest Order: #03-02-07-26-09

  • 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.
    Alert Start Date: March 25, 2026
    Forest Order: #03-02-00-26-08

  • Current Fire Restrictions and Related Prohibitions

    A list of temporary fire restrictions subject to daily changes.
    Alert Start Date: March 16, 2026

  • Annual Summer Closure of Wheeler Peak, Williams Lake, and Surrounding Area

    The following will be closed at a 2026 future date for a week for traditional purposes: Williams Lake (#62), Wheeler Summit (#67), Wheeler Peak (#90) between La Cal Basin and Wheeler Peak, Lost Lake (#91) between Horseshoe Lake and Wheeler Peak.
    Alert Start Date: January 20, 2026

  • Seasonal Road Closures

    Effective Jan. 1 until May 1 in most cases. See below for details. Closures are intended to protect wintering and calving habitat for big game as well as protecting soil and watershed.
    Alert Start Date: January 1, 2026

  • Timber Harvest in Progress Near Pot Creek, Taos

    Practice caution on Forest Roads 115A, 115B and 476 with ongoing timber harvest and forest restoration activities, including the use of heavy machinery.
    Alert Start Date: December 9, 2025

  • 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).
    Alert Start Date: October 28, 2025

  • Douglas-Fir Tussock Moth Outbreak

    Effects of the outbreak are visible to the south of Taos, N.M., especially near Pot Creek and along Forest Road 476. Proceed with caution when around them, contact can cause symptoms.
    Alert Start Date: May 23, 2025

  • 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.
    Alert Start Date: October 3, 2024
    Forest Order: #03-02-04-24-06

  • Occupancy and Use

    Covers stay limits, alcoholic beverages, parking and public nudity.
    Alert Start Date: May 31, 2023
    Forest Order: #03-02-00-2023-03

  • 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.
    Alert Start Date: June 1, 2019
Return to top