Steamboat Springs, CO – Federal officials have temporarily closed a portion of the Routt National Forest in northwest Colorado as firefighters continue battling the Fishhook Fire, citing public safety concerns and ongoing firefighting operations.
According to the U.S. Forest Service, the emergency closure surrounds the Fishhook Fire, which has been burning in Routt County since Sunday, July 12. As of Wednesday, the wildfire was estimated at 333 acres. Officials said the closure was implemented to protect the public and allow firefighters to safely conduct suppression activities.
The closure area generally extends from the forest boundary on the west, U.S. Highway 40 on the south, the Routt County line and Continental Divide/Forest Trail 1101 on the east, and follows the Fish Creek Trail and nearby drainage areas along the northern boundary.
While Highway 40 remains open, the Forest Service said several popular recreation access points are now closed, including Bruce’s Trailhead, Fox Curve Trailhead and the West Summit Trailhead. Officials noted that trails along the closure boundary remain open unless otherwise posted.
The Forest Service said the emergency order also aligns with a pre-evacuation notice previously issued for visitors in the area by Routt County officials. Stage 1 fire restrictions also remain in effect throughout the Routt National Forest in northwest Colorado.
Authorities are asking visitors to avoid the closure area and monitor official sources, including InciWeb, COTrip.org, and local emergency management agencies, for the latest fire conditions, road information and any additional restrictions.
Officials emphasized that the temporary closure is intended to protect both firefighters and the public while crews continue working to contain the Fishhook Fire.
