UPDATE: DECEMBER 13, 2018
SINGLE-TRACK TRAILS CLOSED THROUGH MONDAY 12/17/18
Officials at DuPont State Recreational Forest (DSRF) are extending single-track trail closures through Monday due to on-going conditions. Up to 19 inches of wet, heavy snow fell in the area. Predicted rains on Friday and Saturday will further complicate the situation so the decision was made to keep single-track trails closed until conditions improve. Officials will look at conditions on Monday to determine when trails can be re-opened.
Forest Staff began clearing roads on Sunday afternoon to allow officials access to the forest. This has proved very difficult due to the amount, and heavy nature, of this snow. Work will continue through the weekend to allow access to the forest as soon as possible.
As forest trails become accessible, pay attention to signage or barricades related to the trail closures. Be aware that all trails, even those that are not closed or signed, may have debris and icy, slick conditions so use them at your own risk.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
DECEMBER 7, 2018
Predicted snow causes DSRF trail closures
Cedar Mountain – In response to predicted heavy snow accumulation, officials at DuPont State Recreational Forest (DSRF) will close single track trails on Sunday, December 9. Large amounts of snow will create conditions that make many of the Forest trails susceptible to damage from trail users.
Heavy snow can cause limbs to fall and make travel on the trails difficult. Limited staff access during this time will reduce the ability to assist visitors. The Visitor Center will also be closed on Sunday but will reopen when roads are clear.
As the snow melts, potential for trail damage will increase. Saturated trail surfaces will be soft so that foot traffic, bicycles and equestrian users will cause erosion issues and rutting. This can be exacerbated by freezing temperatures at night followed by thawing during the day. To prevent resource damage, there will be temporary closures of all DSRF single-track trails and some other effected areas. Forest roads and graveled two-track trails such as High Falls Loop, Triple Falls Trail and Hooker Falls Trail will remain open.
According to recreation specialist Mary Smith, “Snow, ice and freeze thaw conditions are times when trails are most susceptible to damage; causing soil to move and the tread surface to be eroded. Protecting the sustainability of the trails is important to providing enjoyable, safe experiences for all forest users. Visitors are asked to be considerate of these conditions and stay off the trails.”
During your visit to DSRF, please pay attention to signage or barricades related to the trail closures. Be aware that all trails, even those that are not closed, may have debris and icy, slick conditions so use them at your own risk.
Forest officials will monitor conditions and will reopen trails as conditions allow. Some trails may have extended closures depending on storm impacts.
For updates, please refer to the DSRF website or the NCFS Facebook page:
To report trail problems or for questions call the Forest Supervisor at 828-877-6527.
