Trail and Campground Closures in Bitterroot Forest

Several campgrounds and roads on the Bitterroot National Forest will be closed this Memorial Day Weekend due to high water and runoff.  Motorists and recreationists planning to get an early jump start on summer and get outside during the upcoming holiday weekend are advised to use caution and contact specific Ranger Districts to get current information on closures and any flooded roads and trails. I spoke with Todd McKay Wednesday afternoon. That interview is attached.   Many campgrounds and trails on the Forest are located near streams and rivers that are at, or near flood stage.  Visitors should be extremely cautious around fast moving water especially at creek crossings.  Hazardous conditions can develop very quickly from rapidly rising waters.  Roads and trails that are passable early in the day may become unsafe in the afternoon as rivers and creeks rise due to increased snowmelt.  Forest visitors will encounter many roads still blocked by snow at lower elevations.  Motorists are being advised to stay away from soft and muddy roads, as this is unsafe and can easily damage the roadbed, leading to expensive repairs.  The public is encouraged to notify their local Ranger District if they notice any flooding, plugged culverts, downed trees or road damage.