Seasonal closures now in effect

Seasonal gates and recreation sites that are not open through the winter on the Black Hills National Forest were closed on Friday, December 15. 

Gates are closed to provide seasonal refuge for wildlife, protect natural resources and provide for public safety as some roads are converted to snowmobile trails.

Seasonally closed roads and trails are identified on the current Motor Vehicle Use Map (MVUM).

Snowmobile trails are open from December 15 to March 31 annually. Wheeled vehicles are not allowed on the snowmobile trails during that time except for one small segment of the snowmobile trail system near Big Hill trails area that allows over snow bicycles.  

Black Hills National Forest officials are asking the public to avoid parking in front of closed Forest gates. “Forest employees may be working behind the closed gate and are unable to exit the area if a vehicle has parked in front of the gate,” said Scott Jacobson, Public Affairs Officer, Black Hills National Forest.

Some campground and day use sites are also closed for the season. A list of campground sites that remain open during the winter can be found at https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fseprd949783.pdf.

As a safety reminder, use extreme caution when driving on forest system roads as the road ahead may become impassable or hazardous due to ice and snow cover.

National Forest System roads are not plowed or maintained during the winter. For those that do travel or recreate in remote areas, please be aware of the local weather conditions and be prepared with appropriate gear.

Seasonal recreation sites and roads typically reopen mid-May, conditions permitting.