Washakie Ranger District road and area openings delayed due to high snowpack

USDA 6-3-17

Despite warming conditions in the Lander Valley, the significant snowpack throughout the Washakie Ranger District is melting slowly. District ranger Steve Schacht asks for the public’s patience as the Forest Service assesses conditions and determines the appropriate time to open the Loop Road.

“Most lakes remain frozen and are not accessible for fishing and camping,” said Schacht. “Ensuring visitor safety and reducing the potential for damage to the forest’s road, trails, and natural resources are our priorities.”

Springtime is when roads and trails are most vulnerable, making it easier to damage soils and vegetation. Travel routes will open as soon as is safely possible, depending on snowmelt and weather conditions.

For further information, please contact the Washakie Ranger District office at 307-332-5460.

Learn more about the Shoshone National Forest by visiting www.fs.usda.gov/shoshone/, following us on Twitter (@ShoshoneNF), or finding us on Facebook (US Forest Service – Shoshone National Forest).

As America’s first national forest, the Shoshone National Forest has 2.4 million acres of diverse terrain and a mission to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of the forest to meet the needs of present and future generations.