FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Zach Behrens, 575-758-6303
Wheeler Peak Area to Close for Five Days in August
TAOS, NM – August 3, 2022 – The Carson National Forest will close Wheeler Peak and inbound trails from Monday, August 22, through Friday, August 26, for traditional and cultural purposes.
The following trails will be closed:
- Williams Lake (#62)
- Wheeler Summit (#67)
- Wheeler Peak (#90) between La Cal Basin and Wheeler Peak
- Lost Lake (#91) between Horseshoe Lake and Wheeler Peak (note: The Lost Lake Trail is severely impacted by windfall)
The Williams Lake basin, including Kachina and Lake Fork peaks, and the ridgeline from east of Taos Cone to Simpson Peak will additionally be closed. A Forest Order will be available at a later date.
“It is a priority of the Forest to partner with local tribes to support traditional ways of life, which is part of Northern New Mexico’s rich and unique culture,” said Forest Supervisor James Duran. “We recognize the inconvenience this might bring and appreciate the public’s flexibility during this event.”
Alternative trails in the area that will be open include:
- Yerba (#61)
- Manzanita (#58)
- Italianos (#59)
- Gavilan (#60)
- Long Canyon (#63) via Wheeler Peak Trail (#90)
- Gold Hill (#64) to its namesake destination via Long Canyon (#63)
Visitors with questions can call the Questa Ranger District at 575.586.0520 or email the Forest at mailroom_r3_carson@usda.gov.
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