BLM Durango-area closures remain in place

DOLORES, Colo. – The Bureau of Land Management has closed use of Big Canyon, Sale Barn, and Three Springs trailheads (to Grandview) and the upper loops of Animas City Mountain through April 30, 2026, to protect vulnerable wintering wildlife. 

These areas are closed annually from December 1 through April 30 to provide mule deer and elk with secure winter habitat. Some years, when conditions allow, portions may be opened to the public earlier; however, BLM, in coordination with Colorado Parks and Wildlife and the City of Durango, has determined that the area should remain closed for the duration of this season.

Mule deer and elk rely on these winter ranges to survive, and early spring remains a period of heightened nutritional stress. Disturbance in these closed areas from people or pets can cause these big game animals to expend critical energy reserves needed for survival and to produce healthy fawns and calves. 

“Just because the snow is off of the mid and low elevations doesn’t mean the range is ready to support wildlife,” said Colorado Parks and Wildlife Officer Luke Clancy. “Deer especially do not move based on conditions; they move based on how long daylight lasts. They, and to an extent elk, still need protected habitat until the end of April.”

Many other recreational opportunities remain open in the Animas City Mountain and Grandview Ridge areas, including Horse Gulch, Overend Mountain Park, Dalla Mountain Park, Skyline and the lower loops of Animas City that connect to Dalla Mountain Park and Twin Buttes. 

For additional closure information, visit the Tres Rios Field Office Annual Seasonal Closures webpage.