Wet conditions close roads on Tusayan Ranger District

The Tusayan Ranger District of the Kaibab National Forest temporarily closed vehicle access to roads on the east side of state Highway 64 south of Tusayan last week due to public safety and road damage concerns.

Parts of the district have received substantial precipitation, which is now melting due to rising daytime temperatures. Motorists have encountered extremely muddy and hazardous driving conditions. Damage to forest roads and resources is occurring.

"During this time of year, we often have to temporarily close parts of the district to motorized access because of very muddy and dangerous conditions," said Tusayan District Ranger Rick Stahn. "We will lift the temporary motor vehicle restrictions as soon as we can."

Roads accessing the Tusayan Ranger District on the east side of Highway 64 south of Tusayan are closed to vehicles. Forest Road 307 is remaining open from Highway 64 on the far northeastern side of the district to the gate at Trash Dam below Hull Cabin. Forest Road 310 is closed at the National Park boundary near Grandview Lookout. Forest roads in the Upper Basin area are remaining open, as are all roads on the west side of the highway.

For the latest on road conditions and for other forest information, contact the Tusayan Ranger District at 638-2443.