Motorized trails to remain closed over Memorial Day weekend

All motorized trails remain temporarily closed to motor vehicle use on the Black Hills National Forest due to extreme wet conditions and a forecast calling for more wet and cold weather. 

A closure order was signed last week prohibiting any type of motorized use on motorized trails. Additionally, seasonally closed gates remain closed until conditions allow them to open. 

Users can still ride on over 3000 miles of Forest Service roads. Forest officials ask the public to avoid driving through wet and muddy spots on these roads to prevent damage to road surfaces. 

“The trails will be opened when conditions allow, but for now they need to remain closed to prevent long lasting damage,” said Mark Van Every, Black Hills National Forest Supervisor. “As trails dry out, some may be opened while others may take additional time.” 

The restricted area covers the entire Black Hills National Forest Motorized Trail System in both Wyoming and South Dakota. 

The public can stay informed on status of the closure order by viewing local news media, the Black Hills National Forest website (https://www.fs.usda.gov/blackhills), Black Hills National Forest Facebook page  (U.S. Forest Service - Black Hills National Forest) or by contacting their local Black Hills National Forest Ranger District Office. 

Please be aware that damaging forest roads and lands is against the law. The legal and financial consequences can be steep, and damages done to the land can take years to repair.