Lizard Head Wilderness
Seasonal Closures
Seasonal Closures
Snow and freeze–thaw shape the calendar here. Even when CO-145 is driveable, interior trails can hold snow and ice into early summer and become muddy/icy again by late fall. Some trailheads (like Cross Mountain) publish operational seasons (May–November), reflecting typical access windows. Always check San Juan NF Current Conditions & Alerts for weather-related updates to roads or trails.
Wildfire conditions can also trigger temporary forest-wide restrictions (e.g., Stage 1 or 2 fire rules) that affect backcountry travel and campfire use. These are announced on the Forest’s fire information pages and via local alerts.
Wildlife Closures
The wilderness relies on standing Forest Orders to protect wildlife and wilderness character. Key rules—group size limits, setbacks from water/trails for camping, no campfires above treeline or in Navajo Basin, leash/control requirements for dogs, and no mechanized travel, reduce disturbance to sensitive species and habitats. These apply year-round unless superseded by a new order, and they’re enforced across the Lizard Head Wilderness. For any temporary, site-specific closures (e.g., storm damage, hazard trees, or short-term wildlife protection needs), review the Alerts/Current Conditions page before your visit.