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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High-Elevation Snow Conditions
Recent storms have left high elevation areas of the forest covered in snow and ice. If you do decide to head out, prepare. Have equipment for travelling in the snow and know how to use it. Dress in layers and bring extra supplies. Find more tips on our Winter Conditions Safety webpage. -
Forest Service Road 87 at Apache Creek
Forest Service Road 87 at Apache Creek is impassable due to storm damage at the culvert crossing. -
Offices Closed Thanksgiving
All Carson National Offices are closed on federal holidays, including November 26 for Thanksgiving. Some services are available online:Firewood PermitsChristmas Tree PermitsCampground ReservationsCurrent Fire RestrictionsRegular office hours will resume November 27. -
Post-Storm Road Conditions
Recent storms have caused degrading road conditions in some parts of the forest, especially on the Jicarilla Ranger District, where entry into the forest by vehicle is inaccessible. -
Current Prescribed Fire Activity and Plans
A list of any upcoming and recent prescribed fire ignitions. -
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 Closure: Continental Divide National Scenic Trail
A portion of the CDT is closed due to hazard trees after the Mogote Ridge Fire. -
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
Closed for rehabilitation work to the campground, day use fishing area, associated roads, and CDT trailheads. -
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.