DNR announces temporary road and trail closures on Minnesota state lands

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DNR announces temporary road and trail closures on Minnesota state lands
(Released March 15, 2012)


The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) reminds people that it has temporarily closed most of its roads and motorized trails due to wet conditions. Road and trail conditions are deteriorating rapidly this spring. Many are not yet firm enough to support vehicle traffic without being damaged. This includes state forest, parks, recreation area and wildlife management area roads and trails. The temporary closures could remain in effect until sometime in May, depending on weather conditions.

“These are normal spring closures that happen when roads and trails become wet and fragile,” said Richard Peterson, recreation program coordinator for the DNR’s Division of Forestry. “We ask that people use good judgment, obey the closures and frequently check the DNR website for updates.”

Road conditions can change quickly. The DNR advises people to first check the individual state park, state trail or state forest web pages before planning trips to avoid being surprised and disappointed by temporary closures.

Road and trail users should pay particular attention to state forest closures. A closed forest means that all roads and trails are closed. Signs will be posted at entry points and parking lots. The closures include all unmarked roads and trails, unless specifically listed on the website.

Online road and trail condition information is updated every Thursday by 2 p.m.

For closures and updates, go to “Current Conditions” on the DNR Web site at
http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/trailconditions , or call the DNR Information Center at 651-296-6157 or toll-free at 888-646-6367 between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. weekdays.

For information on roads and trails on county land, contact the county directly.