Front Range National Forest Roads & Campsites Still Closed

Memorial Day weekend will bring thousands of visitors to the Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests and Pawnee National Grassland near the Front Range. This holiday historically kicks off the summer camping season, but snow is still deep at the higher elevations in the mountains around Fort Collins, Boulder, Idaho Springs and Granby; and spring rains and snowmelt have left many roads and trails wet, muddy and snow-packed.

Lower elevation hiking trails above 8,000 feet still have mud and snow patches. Most trails at higher elevations above 10,000 feet will remain snow-packed until later in June or early July.

Many National Forest System roads remain closed this time of year due to mud or snow. Make sure to check the latest road information before heading out. The Motor Vehicle Use Map is also a good resource.

Many National Forest campgrounds open May 26. Although most of the reservable campsites are already booked, some offer first come, first served spots. Go on-line for a full list of campgrounds, reservations and opening dates. Reservations should be made at recreation.gov.

No overnight camping is allowed at trailheads or picnic areas. Some areas only allow camping in designated areas or not at all.