BTNF roads to close Dec. 1 for winter season
Most become impassable by conventional vehicles due to snow
by Bridger-Teton National Forest
November 28, 2016
JACKSON, Wyo., November 28, 2016 – The Jackson Ranger District of the Bridger-Teton National Forest announced that the Granite Creek road and the Mosquito Creek road, south of Jackson, and the Shadow Mountain road, north of Jackson have been intermittently passable by vehicle over the last several days. With more snow predicted this week, the Forest is cautioning visitors to check conditions before heading out, especially those who might be tempted to drive these roads in search of Christmas trees.
All forest roads will be closed on Thursday, December 1, 2016 when the winter travel restrictions go into effect on the Forest. "Oftentimes, visitors forget that there is no snow removal on forest roadways," said Public Affairs Officer Mary Cernicek. "As winter progresses, the mountain roads become drifted with snow and unpassable. If not careful, an unsuspecting motorist could get caught on a drifted road or slide off into a ditch and the vehicle cold be stuck there until snowmelt in the spring," she said.
Winter weather conditions may change rapidly on the forest, especially with forest roads and highways. "Visitors are encouraged to contact their forest district office for the most up-to-date information," she said. Most Forest Service roads are impassable to conventional vehicles during the winter due to deep snow. Forest Service roads are not maintained or plowed for winter travel by conventional vehicles.
"We ask our visitors to take all precautions as weather and road conditions can change," Cernicek said. "Be prepared for winter driving, limited sight distance and bumpy driving on all Forest Service roads." Bring extra clothing, food, water, blankets, first aid kit, shovel, tire chains and let someone know your destination and expected day/time of return.
It is a good idea to check the Bridger-Teton National Forest avalanche forecast at www.jhavalanche.org. Road and trail condition reports are updated regularly with help from forest visitors, trail crews and engineering reports. Please call the Bridger-Teton National Forest at 307-739-5500 or send an email to fs-r4b-tinfo@fs.fed.us to give a report after your hike of the conditions during your visit. "We can’t be everywhere at once and appreciate your help."
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