Bridger-Teton National Forest officials say recent warm weather has kept winter patrollers busy following up on reports of people illegally entering closed winter ranges.

Officials are reminding all forest users that winter closures are still in effect until 8 a.m. May 1. Biologists say it is critical that wildlife continues to be undisturbed at this time, when their energy reserves are low, pregnant females are in their final trimester and plants have not yet begun to green up.

Additionally, virtually all Jackson and Buffalo Ranger District roads remain closed to wheeled vehicles until May 1. Roads and trails are highly vulnerable to damage during spring melt- out, and any roads damaged may not be able to be repaired this summer, officials said.

Mosquito Creek, Gros Ventre, Swinging Bridge area and Shadow Mountain are just a few examples of roads that remain closed to wheeled vehicles. Limited vehicle travel may be encountered on the Gros Ventre and Granite Creek road for residents who need access to private property.   

Snowmobiling and skiing opportunities still exist in many places, and hiking, biking and horse riding opportunities are becoming more plentiful. But officials say recreational users need to keep in mind some key points when they venture into the forest.

In the Gros Ventre corridor, people can walk or ride a bicycle or horse on the road and other designated routes but are not allowed to venture off into adjacent winter range. ATVs and motorcycles are not permitted anywhere in the national forest until May 1.

Wildlife winter range areas south of Jackson remain closed until May 1. This includes the slopes above the Putt-putt trail in Cache Creek, the Josie’s Ridge and KC trails, the slopes north of Game Creek, Porcupine Creek, Horse Creek, Camp Creek, Poison Creek, Dog Creek and the Fall Creek area near Hoback Junction. Dog leash requirements are in effect on the portions of the Game Creek and Putt-putt trails adjacent to designated winter range.

Officials say snowmobilers need to be especially careful at this time of year to not create bare dirt trails, and travel only where there is adequate snow cover. Bikers can greatly reduce their impact by not traveling on wet roads or trails. A bike track that leaves a rut creates a channel for water that can significantly erode a trail. Equestrian use on wet trails can have similar adverse effects.

Free travel maps are available at the Forest Supervisor’s Office or the Greater Yellowstone Visitor Center, both on North Cache Street.

Additional information can be obtained by calling the Bridger-Teton National Forest at 307-739-5500.