Closures and Alerts
CDTC posts up-to-date information as available regarding closures, restrictions, and other notices along the official route of the CDT here. Alerts are also posted to the r/CDT Reddit. If you have any information regarding new incidents, please let us know at [email protected].
Current Alerts and Closures
If you are in an emergency, call 911. If you witness or are involved a threatening or violent act, contact local law enforcement.
Dollar Lake Fire CDT now CLOSED | Green River Lakes, WY | Mile 1856.5-1886.5 | Updated 9/5/25
Update 9/5/25
The Dollar Lake Fire has now closed the CDT from the Trail Creek Park Trail Head (m. 1856) to Union Pass Road (m. 1886.5). In addition Green River Lakes Road is closed, and there is no access in or out of the Green River Lakes Trail Head.
Due to the location of the closure, there is no recommended reroute at this time. If hikers choose an alternative route that enters the Wind River Reservation, please be aware a “Trespass permit” may be required. Permits can be purchased at the Wind River Outdoor Company in Lander (307-332-7864).
For the most up-to-date information please contact the Dollar Lake Fire Public Information Officer:
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 307-395-2365
Hours: 9:00 am to 4:00 pm
New Route Alert | Cuba, New Mexico | Mile 640.5 - 645
Due to recent and continued reports involving aggressive dogs along the route within the Cuba, NM gap, a new suggested route is in place (see below). This route leaves/joins Hwy 126 and follows Old Hwy 44 and Duke City road, in and out of Cuba. It is 4.1 miles long, compared to the old route of 3.9 miles, and passes by the Sandoval County Fairgrounds and USFS Cuba Ranger District office. While the new route avoids several residencies, users should remain vigilant and report any uncontrolled or aggressive animal behavior immediately to local authorities.
To learn more about the Cuba, NM gap click here.
Monarch Ski Area Construction | San Isabel NF | Mile 1085.5-1088.5 | Updated 8/25
Delays Expected
Update: 8/25
From Monarch Mountain
We will be conducting helicopter ops at Monarch Mountain once again on Friday-August 29th. This should be a fairly quick fly day lasting approximately 2-3 hours at most. We will post guards with radio comms on the north and south ends of the flight path to hold traffic during flight operations. We will also have guards in our parking lot stopping any vehicle or uphill pedestrian traffic during the day. Aerial operations will start early around 7am.
We will be holding traffic for roughly one-hour intervals and allowing hikers to pass through between the trail guards during helicopter fuel cycles as needed (5-10 minutes of stoppage time to get across).
Guards will be placed at approximately either end of MM 1088 & MM1087 with the closure in between. Based on the preferred flight path of the helicopter pilot due to weather and winds, we will shorten this closure span as we can to reduce the time needed to get across safely.
We also have a powerline project coming up starting next week. We plan to lay the de-energized power cables (4 of them) down the lift line and across the trail ahead of trenching activity. We will cover these with a black traction mat where they cross the trail until we can get these fully buried.
We will use a detour onto our adjacent ski way and summer road (just a few hundred feet to the south) to bypass this section of trail while these operations are occurring. This will likely be a one to two day operation. Likely Mon/Tues (Aug 25/26) or Tues/Wed(Aug 26/27) of next week.
After towers are flown and the de-energized cable is pulled down the lift line and laying on the ground, we will be trenching in this powerline down the lift line. This will affect the trail and we will close this 700’ section of trail that was built last summer and once again implement the short detour using the adjacent road and skiway to bypass the trenching operations.
We will sign and/or staff this short detour while these power run projects affect the trail corridor.
Biscuit Basin Reroute | Yellowstone NP | Mile 2033.5-2034 - Updated 7/7/25
On Tuesday, July 23, at about 10:19 a.m., a localized hydrothermal explosion occurred near Sapphire Pool in Biscuit Basin, located just north of Old Faithful.
- Biscuit Basin, including the parking lot and boardwalks, are closed for the 2025 season. The Grand Loop Road remains open.
- The Park Service is recommending hikers utilize the Upper Geyser Basin (UGB) Biscuit Basin Trail as a reroute option as shown below in blue.
Copper Mountain Construction CDT Closed | White River National Forest | Mile 1224 - 1226.5 Updated 8/12/25
Due to ongoing construction at Copper Mountain Resort, ~2.5 miles of trail is currently closed and can be bypassed via a ~2.5 mile detour.
Southbound travelers:
– Do not cross the bridge into the parking lot.
– Turn right to head north on the paved recreation path.
– In ½ mile turn left (west) to cross over 10 Mile Creek.
– Travel west on the recreation path (cross Highway 91 at traffic light) ¾ mile to Ten Mile Circle.
– Turn left at 10 Mile Circle and travel ¼ mile into Copper Mountain Center Village.
– Follow the trail past the American Flyer, Woodward Express, and Kokomo Express lifts into the West Village base area ; follow signs to end of detour.
– Turn left uphill just after the Kokomo Express lift
– Turn right onto the CDT.
Northbound travelers:
– Follow signs into the Copper Mountain Center Village (it will take you left and then past the Kokomo Express, Woodward Express, and American Flyer lifts into the center village).
– Pass Eagle BBQ, Copper Sports & turn right to exit Village at the roundabout.
– Travel N/W on Ten Mile Circle ¼ mile to Copper Road.
– Turn right (east) on Copper Road. Walk along the paved recreation path adjacent to Copper
Road.
– In ¾ of a mile cross highway 91 at stoplight. Turn right to cross 10 Mile Creek on paved
recreation path (if you pass the Conoco station, you went too far).
– Turn right on recreation path and travel ½ mile south to end of detour.
– Turn left onto CDT.
Two Medicine Campground and Wilderness Permit Office Construction | Glacier National Park | Mile 2949 | Updated 8/26/25
The Two Medicine area will be undergoing a construction project in mid September that will affect the following:
- The Two Medicine Wilderness Permit Office will close on September 14, 2025. Wilderness Permits will be available at the East Glacier Ranger Station in East Glacier, MT from September 14th through September 30th.
- East Glacier Ranger Station
108 Midvale St
East Glacier Park, MT 59434
- East Glacier Ranger Station
- Normal Availability at Two Medicine Wilderness Campground: Backpackers can reserve Two Medicine Wilderness Campground, as per usual, through the end of the normal season.
- CDT Hiking Access to TM Valley via Scenic Point Trail: Hiking access into the Two Medicine Valley is normal. There are no detours or closures to navigate while hiking. The only closures/construction is east of the entrance station, well away from trails and campgrounds. The Dry Creek Trailhead will be inaccessible during the Fall 2025 construction.
- Water is turned off on 9/16. Backpackers will use pit toilets and treat water out of natural water sources after 9/16.
- No Vehicle Access after 9/30: Vehicle access into Two Medicine Valley closes on 10/1. All access to the valley is by trail only.
- CDT Hiking Access to TM Valley via Scenic Point Trail (aka the CDT): Hiking access into the Two Medicine Valley should be via Scenic Point (CDT). The Dry Creek Trailhead will be inaccessible during the Fall 2025 construction.
Past Alerts
Sandbar 2 Fire - Now Open | Helena, Montana | Mile 2732.5 - 2746.5 Updated 8/25/25
Update 8/25:
CDT closure between Flesher and Roger’s Pass in Montana has been lifted. The trail is once again open thanks to the quick work of fire personnel on the Sandbar 2 fire.
The Sandbar 2 Fire east of Lincoln, Montana is now 75 acres. We are using a full suppression strategy with two helicopters, ground crews and more resources on order. The Continental Divide National Scenic Trail is closed between Roger’s and Flesher Pass for public safety.
North Fork ELK Creek drinking water closure | Route NF | Colorado | Updated 8/4
Update: 8/4 130pm
The Hahns Peak-Bears Ears Ranger District is implementing a fisheries project on North Fork Elk Creek in the Routt National Forest near the Wyoming Trail #1101.1/Continental Divide Trail from August 5-9. Trail users are advised to NOT DRINK ANY WATER from the river between miles 1512 to 1514.5 during this time period.
Goose Fire - Now open | Gila NF | Gila Middle Fork | Updated 8/11
Update: 8/11
The Gila National Forest has lifted area closures for the Trout Fire and Goose Fire now that fire operations are largely complete, reducing threat to public safety. All motorized routes designated on the current Motor Vehicle Use Map, designated trails, recreation sites, and National Forest System lands within the areas have been reopened.
Update: 7/16
The Goose Fire in the Gila National Forest has now closed a portion of trails that connect the CDT to the Middle Fork of the Gila River. In addition, the Turkeyfeather fire is burning on portions of the north end of the Middle Fork trail near Snow Lake.
https://www.fs.usda.gov/r03/gila/alerts/goose-fire-area-closure
Update 6/16
The CDT has closed from Hwy 15 and Hwy 35 (CDT miles 182- 204.5) due to the Trout Fire, in the Gila National Forest. As this is an active growing fire, there is no recommended reroute at this time.
The fire was reported Thursday, June 12, in the Trout Creek area of the Gila National Forest. Driven by hot, dry weather, the fire quickly grew and crossed NM-15 in the afternoon. Command of the fire transferred command to the Gila/Las Cruces Type 3 team Thursday evening. Saturday morning, command will again transfer to a complex incident management team, Southwest Team 4. Resources working the fire include hot shot crews, type 2 hand crews, dozers, helicopters and fixed wing aircraft.
The Gila National Forest has implemented a closure order. (See below)
For more info contact the Gila National Forest: 575-388-8211. [email protected]
Trout Fire - Now Open | Gila NF | Mile 182 - 204.5 | Updated 8/1
The Trout Fire was 100% contained on July 24 and the associated area closure was lifted as of Thursday, July 31. The public should be aware of hazards that exist within the burned area, including stump holes and loosened soil, rolling rocks, logs, and other debris, fire-weakened trees, and roads or trails that may be impassable due to fallen trees or flood impacts. There is potential for flash flooding within the burned area, especially where soil and vegetation burned at higher intensity.
Jericho Mountain Fire - Now Open | Helena L&C NF | Mile 2663.5 - 2677 | Updated 7/10
Update 7/10:
Jericho Mountain Fire Closure is now rescinded. Closure Order Number 01_15_12_25_11 has been rescinded as of 07-10-2025. The closure order was lifted for all roads and trails, including the Continental Divide Trail. Use caution near or in burned area due to unstable surfaces and fire weakened trees.
Reroute:
Jericho Fire CDT reroute map and directions
For more info: Inciweb
Buck Fire - Now open | BLM Socorro | Mile 291.5-332.5 | Updated 7/11
The CDT has reopened from the Buck fire (New Mexico BLM Socorro district: mile 291.5-332.5). Please be aware of potential post fire hazards and navigation challenges.
For more info: InciWeb
Close bear encounters at Jordan Hot Springs | Gila National Forest | Update 6/12
Update 6/12: The Gila National Forest now advises anyone recreating in this area to ensure proper store storage of food and scented items.
Update 5/15: Gila National Forest has received numerous reports of a human-habituated bear frequenting the Jordan Hot Springs area of the Gila Wilderness. The bear has charged at hikers, harassed campers at a campsite, destroyed a tent, and entered the hot spring while visitors were soaking in it.
New Mexico Department of Game and Fish is advising visitors to avoid the area until the department has had an opportunity to investigate and respond appropriately. Signs will be posted at local trailheads while this hazard exists. Learn more about living with bears at Keeping Bears Alive and Yourself Safe.
Jordan Hot Springs is along an undesignated “Gila Alternate” route along the Middle Fork trail used by many CDT hikers.
For more information contact:
Maribeth Pecotte, Public Affairs Officer
(987) 654-3210
[email protected]
www.fs.usda.gov/r03/gila
Fire Restrictions
Fire restrictions for lands the CDT passes through are listed roughly south-to-north by state.
Bridger-Teton National Forest | Stage 1 Fire Restrictions | Mile 1765-1978 | Updated 8/12/25
PROHIBITIONS
Pursuant to 16 U.S.C. § 551 and 36 C.F.R. § 261.50(a), the following are prohibited on the National Forest System (NFS) lands in the Bridger-Teton National Forest, described below and shown on the attached map incorporated into this Order as Exhibit A, hereinafter referred to as the “Described Area”:
- Igniting, building, maintaining, attending, or using a fire (including fires fueled by charcoal or briquettes), except if it is in:
- A permanent metal or concrete fire pit or grate that the U.S. Forest Service has installed and maintained at its developed recreation sites (campgrounds and picnic areas), listed in Exhibit A;
- A device solely fueled by liquid or gas that can be turned on and off used in an area barren or cleared of all flammable materials within three feet of the device; or
-
A fully enclosed metal stove with a chimney at least five feet in length and a mesh screen spark arrestor with a screen opening of a ¼ inch or less used in an area that is barren or cleared of all flammable materials within 10 feet of the device.
Yellowstone National Park | Stage 1 Fire Restrictions | Mile 2049- | Updated 8/12/25
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Prohibited: Smoking, except in an enclosed vehicle, single-family dwelling, developed campground, day-use picnic area, or within a 3-foot diameter area that is barren or cleared of all flammable material.
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Permitted: Campfires in designated fire rings in frontcountry developed campgrounds (Madison, Mammoth, Slough Creek, Tower Fall, Canyon, Indian Creek, Lewis Lake, Grant Village and Bridge Bay) and day-use picnic areas. All campfires must be attended. Charcoal and ash must be soaked, stirred, extinguished, and cold to the touch prior to leaving a campfire unattended. Soak, stir, feel, repeat.
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Permitted: Self-contained gas and charcoal grills.
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Permitted: Stoves and lanterns that use pressurized liquid, jellied petroleum, or gas fuel, and fully enclosed, sheep-herder type stoves with a ¼-inch spark-arrestor screen in areas which are barren or cleared of all overhead and surrounding flammable materials within 3 feet of the device.
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Prohibited: Charcoal and wood campfires in the backcountry, including those in established fire rings.
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Permitted: Stoves and lanterns that use pressurized liquid, jellied petroleum, or gas fuel, and fully enclosed, sheep-herder type stoves with a ¼-inch spark-arrestor screen in areas which are barren or cleared of all overhead and surrounding flammable materials within 3 feet of the device.
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Permitted: Smoking only in areas adjacent to the provided fire ring in designated campsites or within a 3-foot-diameter area barren of all flammable material. Smokers must ensure that all cigarette butts are extinguished.
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Discharging fireworks or firearms
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Using explosives or pyrotechnic devices
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Abandoning or failing to attend a campfire
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Driving vehicles off-road
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Smoking in thermal areas and all posted and designated areas such as trails
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Wood campfires at the Fishing Bridge RV Park, Shoshone Lake backcountry campsites or any backcountry campsite without a rock or metal fire ring to contain the spread of the fire
White River National Forest | Stage 1 Fire Restrictions | Mile 1201-1287 | Updated 7/23/25
All lands managed by the White River National Forest are under Stage 1 fire restrictions effective June 27, 2025.
Under stage 1 restrictions:
- campfires are only allowed within designated fire grates in developed campgrounds (including the Forest Service Homestake Valley designated dispersed camping sites in Eagle County); this means a metal, in-ground containment structure — fire pans and rock campfire rings are not acceptable.
- no fires of any type including charcoal outside of developed areas
- no smoking except within an enclosed vehicle or building, a developed recreation site or in a barren area free of vegetation
- no use of explosive materials, including explosive targets
- no welding or operation of an acetylene or other similar torch with open flame except from an area that has been cleared of vegetation
- no operation of any internal combustion engine without a spark arresting device properly installed and in working order
Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National (GMUG) National Forest | Stage 1 Fire Restrictions | Mile 956-1141.5 | Updated 7/23/25
STAGE 1 FIRE AND SMOKING RESTRICTIONS
When Stage 1 Fire Restrictions are in place, the following acts are prohibited on USDA Forest Service lands managed under the Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests:
1. Building, maintaining, attending or using a fire, campfire, or stove fire. (This prohibition includes, but is not limited to, charcoal grills, hibachis, and coal or wood-burning stoves.)
EXCEPTIONS: Campfires are permitted in USDA Forest Service-developed campgrounds and picnic grounds, and only in USDA Forest Service-provided, manufactured fire grates and grills. Petroleum-fueled stoves, lanterns, or heating devices are allowed on all National Forest System lands, provided such devices meet the Underwriters Laboratories specifications for safety.
San Juan National Forest | Stage 1 Fire Restrictions | Mile 826-949.5 | Updated 7/23/25
The following are prohibited on the National Forest System (NFS) lands within the San Juan National Forest
1. Igniting, building, maintaining, attending, or using a fire (including fires fueled by charcoal or briquettes), except if it is in:
a. A permanent metal or concrete fire pit or grate that the U.S. Forest Service has installed and maintained at its developed recreation sites (campgrounds and picnic areas);
b. A device solely fueled by liquid or gas that can be turned on and off used in an area barren or cleared of all flammable materials within three feet of the device; or
c. A fully enclosed metal stove with a chimney at least five feet in length and a mesh screen spark arrestor with a screen opening of a ¼ inch or less used in an area that is barren or cleared of all flammable materials within 10 feet of the device. 36 CFR § 261.52(a).
2. Using an explosive. 36 C.F.R. § 261.52(b)
3. Smoking is prohibited, except in an enclosed vehicle or building, a developed recreation site,
or while stopped in an area at least three feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all
flammable materials. 36 CFR § 261.52(d)
Arapaho National Forest - Sulphur Ranger District | Stage 2 Fire Prohibitions | Mile 1297-1374 | Updated 8/19/25
Due to increased fire danger, the Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests and Pawnee National Grassland is enacting Stage 2 fire restrictions on National Forest lands in Grand County starting tomorrow, August 20, 2025. This decision was made in collaboration with the Grand County Sheriff’s Office, local fire districts, and other federal land managers.
During Stage 2 fire restrictions open fires are prohibited. Visitors may only use stoves and heating devices solely fueled by liquid or gas and featuring an on/off switch. No fires are allowed in fire rings in established campgrounds. The purpose of these restrictions is to protect public health, safety, and natural resources by preventing wildfires.
Violation of Stage 2 fire restrictions could result in a maximum fine of $5,000 for an individual or $10,000 for an organization, or imprisonment for not more than six months, or both.
Grant County | Fire Restrictions | Much of the CDT from mile 35-237 | 4/9/25
Pursuant to Grant County Fire Code Ordinance No. 14-2, the Grant County Fire Management Officer finds that there are currently severe and/or extreme drought conditions and a state of fire emergency. Consequently, the following restrictions shall be in effect:
All open fires are prohibited, except in developed camp and picnic grounds where agency built fire rings or grills are provided. Check postings at campgrounds before starting a fire.
1. No open burning: campfires, croplands, fields, rangeland, debris/trash burning, slash piles, or weeds are all prohibited.
2. Covered propane grills are generally allowed on areas of barren dirt, pavement, concrete or similar surfaces, unless determined to be a fire hazard by an enforcing officer.
3. Motorized equipment must have spark arrestors.
4. Do not dispose of: hot ashes, cinders, smoldering coals or greasy or oily materials subject to spontaneous ignition except in an approved combustible receptacle.
5. Any hazardous source of ignition, as determined by the County Fire Management Officer or the Grant County Manager, with respect to this posted notice is prohibited in accordance within the posted park or area.
These restrictions shall be effective immediately and shall remain in effect until conditions improve and will only be lifted at the direction of the Fire Management Officer and/or the Grant County Manager.
Penalties: Any individual, firm, partnership, corporation or other entity who violates this ordinance or restrictions imposed pursuant to this ordinance shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and shall be fined in an amount not to exceed $300 and may be imprisoned for up to ninety (90) days, or both.