GLENWOOD SPRINGS, Colo. (AP) - The U.S. Forest Service has announced all closures in the White River National Forest following a Colorado wildfire last year will be lifted this week.
The agency says it will lift the closures Thursday at No Name and Grizzly Creek trails, the Grizzly and Shoshone boat ramps and boat access along the Colorado River, and areas on the Glenwood Canyon’s north rim, the Post Independent reported.
Online reservations open Thursday for the popular, permit-based Hanging Lake Trail, which will welcome visitors starting May 1. Seasonal road closures typically in place through the spring will remain in effect.
The Grizzly Creek Fire started Aug. 10, resulting in a two-week closure of a highway and all recreation in the area. The fire, determined to be human-caused, burned about 50 square miles (130 square kilometers) through Dec. 18.
“We appreciate the public’s patience as we continue to manage the impacts from the largest wildfire in the history of the White River National Forest,” forest Supervisor Scott Fitzwilliams said. “We are continuing to work closely with our partners on post-fire recovery and monitoring.”
Forest spokesman David Boyd advised hikers and other visitors check weather forecasts before setting out.
“An area that’s been burned like that is much more susceptible to rockfall, falling trees and other debris,” he said. “If you choose to go hiking in there, just be aware of that added risk. It’s going to be a little different than it was before the fire.”
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