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Due to winter weather conditions, the Santa Fe National Forest (SFNF) will close some forest roads susceptible to damage to protect public health and safety, infrastructure, and natural resources.
Seasonal closures generally occur between December and May, when snow, ice and frigid temperatures make winter travel treacherous. The closures bar the use of four-wheel and two-wheel motorized vehicles, including all-terrain vehicles and motorcycles, on restricted roads when gates are closed, locked, or posted with a closure sign.
Current and upcoming road closures:
Cuba Ranger District
Forest Roads 69 and 70
On January 1, 2024, Forest Roads 6, 20, 98, 531, 533, 534, and 539
On January 2, 2024, Forest Roads 10, 144, 268, 280, 289, 376, and 378
Coyote Ranger District
There are currently no road closures planned for the Coyote District
Espanola Ranger District
Forest Road 102
Visitors traveling on open forest roads should use caution as conditions can change suddenly. Check the weather and current road conditions before you leave home and let someone know your planned route. Be prepared for an emergency by carrying safety items in your vehicle:
A shovel, chains, water, and food
Sand or kitty litter for traction if you get stuck.
Jumper cables, flashlight, and warning devices (i.e., flares, warning triangles or reflectors)
Blankets and warm winter clothing
In case of emergency, call 911. Local ranger districts do not have emergency response capabilities. If an abandoned vehicle is blocking the roadway, call local law enforcement, usually the county sheriff’s office, for immediate removal.
Forest Service personnel will enforce road closures. Violations are punishable by a fine of not more than $5,000 for individuals and $10,000 for organizations, imprisonment of not more than six months, or both.
Federal, state, and local officers, members of an organized rescue team or firefighting force, landowners accessing their private property and any others authorized by permit are exempt from the closure orders but are still advised to use extreme caution on icy or snow packed roads.
An interactive map of road and recreation sites with detailed information can be found on the SFNF website. You may also call the local ranger district office for more information about road conditions.
