New Temporary Emergency Closures on the Eldorado National Forest 

PLACERVILLE, Calif. – New temporary emergency closures are now in effect for high use areas where there are safety hazards associated with down trees, and other fire-related hazards in the Caples Fire burned area such as fire weakened trees, stump holes and loose rocks.

All uses, including hiking, are temporarily prohibited for areas specified in the new temporary closure order which includes trails within the Rock Creek, Elkins Flat, and Caples Creek trail systems. Bald Mountain Staging Area, Balderson Trailhead, Mace Mill Staging Area, Elkins Flat Staging Area, Caples Creek Trailhead, Caples Creek Equestrian Trailhead and trails associated with these sites have been closed through May 15, 2020. These closures will be extended as conditions warrant. See Emergency Forest Order No. 03-20-06 for a map and complete list of the new trail closures.

In addition to the new emergency closures, the public is reminded that other closures are still in effect:

20-03 – Closure of Developed Recreation Facilities – Developed recreation facilities including campgrounds, picnic areas, day use areas and boat ramps are closed for public health and safety to prevent the spread of COVID-19. A list of developed recreation closures on the Eldorado National Forest can be found here.

Winter Road Closures:

03-20-01 Mormon Emigrant Trail (MET) / Iron Mountain Road Winter Closure – No wheeled vehicles are permitted on snow covered areas.

03-19-03 Silver Fork Road Winter closure – No wheeled vehicles are permitted on snow covered areas.

There is still snow on MET for several miles from Highway 88 west toward Sly Park Road and on Silver Fork Road near the intersection with MET.

Dispersed Camping Closures:

03-20-05 Stumpy Meadows Restricted Use Area – Dispersed camping and campfires are prohibited on national forest system lands surrounding Stumpy Meadows Reservoir which is an important community water supply.

03-20-03 Northshore Loon Lake Area Closure – Dispersed camping and campfires are prohibited on national forest system lands on the north shore of Loon Lake which is an important community water supply.

More information about forest closures and restrictions can be found on forest website here.

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The U.S.D.A Forest Service is an equal opportunity employer. The mission of the Forest Service is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of the nation’s forests and grasslands to meet the needs of present and future generations.