Craig Mountain Gates Closed

With the recent snowmelt and big game animals returning to higher elevations, Idaho Fish and Game has closed the access gates on the Craig Mountain Wildlife Management Area south of Lewiston. Snowmobile enthusiasts can still use the area until the gates close March 15, but they are urged to use increased caution. Hazards, such as stumps and rocks are rapidly appearing, and travel is becoming difficult with snow becoming very soft by afternoon. The closure date was selected in cooperation with local snowmobile groups and hunters to reduce disturbance of game animals and provide security to wild turkeys during the spring hunting season that begins on April 15. Several conflicts have occurred in the past with non-authorized motorized vehicles accessing the area. Drivers of motorized vehicles who violate the area closure are subject to a misdemeanor citation including fines up to $1000 and/or jail up to six months.