The U.S. Forest Service announced that the portion of the Pecos Wilderness managed by the Española Ranger District is now closed to the public. The decision follows the rapid spread of the Frijoles Fire, which has consumed over 9,000 acres of forest land.
Areas Affected
All access to the following roads, trails and campgrounds within the district is prohibited until further notice:
- Forest Roads 306, 436, 440 and 441
- Borrego Mesa Campground
- Trails and trailheads: Aspen Ranch Trailhead and Borrego Trail #150, Aspen Basin Trailhead, Borrego Trailhead, Dome Trail #151, Rio Medio Trailhead and Rio Medio Trail #155, Rio Molino Trailhead, Rio Quemado Trailhead and Rio Quemado Trail #153, Panchuela West Trail #243, Skyline Trail #251, Winsor Trail #254, Rio En Medio Trail #163, Rio Nambe Trail #160, Frijoles Canyon Trail #154
Visitors are urged to obey posted signs and follow directions from law‑enforcement officers and National Guard personnel stationed in the area.
Pecos‑Las Vegas Ranger District Status
While the Española side remains closed, the adjacent Pecos‑Las Vegas Ranger District continues to allow limited access. The following trails on that side are still open:
- Holy Ghost Trailhead and Trail #283
- Winsor Creek Trail #254
- Cowles Trail #271
Note that Jack’s Creek and Panchuela areas, including several campgrounds and an equestrian zone, stay closed due to ongoing construction.
Legal and Safety Reminder
Entering any closed area during an active wildfire creates serious safety hazards. Moreover, federal law classifies unauthorized entry into a closed fire zone as a Class B misdemeanor. Penalties can include fines up to $5,000 for individuals (or $10,000 for organizations), up to six months in prison, or both.
The Forest Service emphasizes that these measures are intended to protect both the public and firefighting resources. Residents and visitors are encouraged to monitor official updates and to plan alternative outdoor activities until the fire is fully contained and the closures are lifted.
Original reporting: KOAT Albuquerque — read the source article.
