Shasta-Trinity National Forest issues Shasta-McCloud Management Unit Seasonal Road Closure Order

REDDING, Calif., December 20, 2024—The Shasta-Trinity National Forest issued a Forest Order to close certain roads on the Shasta-McCloud Management Unit.

The restrictions are to provide for public safety. This area has seen a noticeable increase in winter recreation use. Visitors hike, snowshoe, and cross-country ski over snow covered Forest Service roads to recreation areas, enjoying a unique and pristine winter experience. Unaware drivers attempt to access the area on roads not maintained or intended for winter driving. As a result, it is common for people to get stuck in deep snow and experience difficulty retrieving their vehicles. Off highway vehicles and snowmobiles also venture onto these roads, creating tracks and ruts that freeze and become obstacles for those on foot, in addition to potential collisions.

For the safety of pedestrians, and to prevent stranded motorists, primary roads accessing certain areas will be closed to motorized vehicles during the winter season. The time frame for the closure will fall all or partly within the seasonal period between December 20th and May 1st depending on winter snowfall conditions.

Pursuant to 16 U.S.C. § 551 and 36 C.F.R. § 261.50(b), and to provide for public safety, the following act is prohibited within the Shasta-McCloud Management Unit on the Shasta-Trinity National Forest. This Order is effective through May 1, 2025.

1. Using any type of vehicle (including over-snow vehicles, all-terrain vehicles, and utility terrain vehicles) on the National Forest System roads as listed in Exhibit A and shown on Exhibits B and C. 36 C.F.R. § 261.54(a).
2. Road closures in Exhibit A and B include partial and total closure of roads: 39N28, 39N28B-C, 39N30, 39N30A-C, 40N25, 40N08Y, 40N44, 40N44A-B, 40N44H, 40N80, 40N75, and 41N31.

Persons with Forest Service Permit No. FS-7700-48 (Permit for Use of Roads, Trails, or Areas Restricted by Regulation or Order), specifically exempting them from this Order. Any Federal, State, or local officer, or member of an organized rescue or fire-fighting force in the performance of an official duty.

These prohibitions are in addition to the general prohibitions in 36 C.F.R. Part 261, Subpart A. A violation of these prohibitions is punishable by a fine of not more than $5,000 for an individual or $10,000 for an organization, or imprisonment for not more than six months, or both. 16 U.S.C. § 551 and 18 U.S.C. §§ 3559, 3571, and 3581.

Forest Service News Release