Hikers and mountain bikers using trails in Durango are reminded that wildlife areas remain closed until April 16. The closures, which went into effect Dec. 1, are designated to provide safe winter-range areas for big-game animals.
Bodo State Wildlife Area and Perins Peak State Wildlife Area open April 16. Dogs must be on a leash on state wildlife area property. One exception is at the Perins Peak SWA where the area east of County Road 208 remains closed until Aug. 1.
Trails on Bureau of Land Management and city-owned properties also open April 16, including: Big Canyon, Sale Barn, South Rim Trails, Carbon Junction, Grandview, Animas Mountain and Twin Buttes.
Those using state wildlife areas must have a hunting or fishing license, or the new SWA pass. The annual pass will go on sale May 1, and will cost $36.08 for adults, $10.07 for people 65 or older and $10.07 for youths 16 to 17. A license or the pass is needed because state wildlife areas are specifically purchased and maintained for the benefit of wildlife.
For more information, call Durango Colorado Parks and Wildlife at 247-0855.
