Maroon Creek, Castle Creek roads to close for the season Monday
River Stingray/The Aspen Times
Both Maroon Creek Road, from just before the Maroon Bells Welcome Station to the Maroon Bells Scenic Area, and upper Castle Creek Road, from Ashcroft past Pine Creek Cookhouse, will close to vehicle traffic on Monday, Nov. 10 for the season.
“That date has been negotiated between the Board of County Commissioners and landowners in the area, as well as the general public,” said Brian Pettet, director of Public Works at Pitkin County.
According to Pettet, both roads typically close this time of year when snow becomes likely. Even without snow present currently, Pettet said it’s important to prevent people from getting stuck in a snowstorm up either road.
BOCC Chair Kelly McNicholas Kury said the decision was a balancing act between multiple land uses and types of recreationists during a time of year when “snow can start flying anytime.”
She said, “The board tried to be very thoughtful in juggling multiple competing uses and access requests on the road. Backcountry enthusiasts that want to have access for as long as possible; winter outfitters who want the roads covered in snow to build the base as soon as possible; and reliable expectations for hunters who leave their cars for weeks at a time.”
According to McNicholas Kury, setting a certain date allows for clear communication and expectation between recreationists.
County Commissioner Jeffrey Woodruff emphasized that this seasonal closure date is consistent with years prior.
“The closures provide time for the teams at Ashcroft Touring and T-Lazy 7 to set up for winter operations,” Woodruff said. “I have my skins and skis ready.”
Woodruff also highlighted how the closure provides a respite for wildlife and critical wildlife habitat before the touring season.
It also frees up the roads for any county road maintenance that might be needed, although Pettet said road work generally occurs after the winter season before the roads open again, usually late March or early April.
Pettet did note that both Colorado Parks and Wildlife and the U.S. Forest Service confirmed they still wanted the roads closed despite the lack of snow. USFS in particular isn’t able to have anyone continue working up at Maroon Bells to ensure visitor safety.
Bikes are able to continue using the roads after they close to vehicle traffic, until it snows.
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