MORRISON, CO… The U.S. Forest Service is extending the normal winter closure of the northern Rampart Range Recreation Area along the Pike National Forest's Rampart Range Road in Douglas County. The closure applies to all wheeled, motorized vehicles. The closure will be in effect for an "indefinite" period, likely to mid- or end-April, due to the continuing snowfall and wet conditions in the area. These conditions have generated concerns over damage to roads and trails, increased erosion and damage to vegetation that would be caused by wheeled, motorized vehicles operating in muddy conditions following this season's snowmelt. Snowmobiles will be the only motorized conveyances permitted in the gated area during this extended closure period. The agency will continue to assess weather impacts on the recreation area in an effort to reopen it to all recreational uses as soon as practicable

While, generally, the recreation area's annual winter closure (Dec.1 to Apr. 1) extends to all motorized vehicles except snowmobiles and off-road vehicles of 48 inches width or less, this extended closure period will now become more restrictive, adding to the closure all motorized vehicles except snowmobiles and those other motorized vehicles specifically issued permits to be in the area. The area will continue to be open to non-motorized recreational activities.

This impacted recreation area, accessed off of State Highway 67 southwest of Sedalia, is a popular recreation site for a wide variety of recreational uses, especially off-highway vehicle enthusiasts and visitors to the popular Devil's Head Lookout Tower which sits in the middle of the winter closure area. The area is accessed by north Rampart Range Road, a dirt road that serves as a central spine for approximately one hundred miles of motorized trails. While Rampart Range Road runs from Highway 67 on the north to Colorado Springs on the south, only the northernmost 20 miles of the road, beginning at Highway 67, are generally closed during the winter months. This extended closure and expanded restrictons will apply only to that portion normally closed for the winter. It will not impact recreation sites on the southern portion of Rampart Range Road, including those in and around the Colorado Springs area.

Forest Service crews are in the process of constructing and posting additional signs in the area to ensure recreationists are aware of the restrictions. U.S Forest Service personnel will also patrol the area to ensure the restriction is enforced and environmental damage does not occur in the area.

Additional information may be obtained by contacting the South Platte Ranger District at 303-275-5610.