Craig Mountain Gates Remain Closed Until More Snow

With the lack of snow on the Craig Mountain Wildlife Management Area south of Lewiston, the Idaho Department of Fish and Game reminds winter recreationists that all access gates will remain closed until more snow accumulates. The area opens annually to snowmobiles December 5. This date was selected in cooperation with local snowmobile groups and hunters to allow snowmobile use of the area after hunting seasons have closed and big game animals have moved to lower elevations. The gates are designed to enhance wildlife security not to restrict snowmobile use. Snowmobilers are urged to use caution in the area. Because of the Chimney Complex wildfire, many trees are expected to fall the next few years and several new fences were recently constructed in several areas to restrict illegal off-road use. Salvage logging will also be in progress during the winter months so users are urged to be cautious of the increased traffic. The Lewis and Clark Snowdrifters annually groom and remove obstacles on almost 200 miles of trails on Craig Mountain and surrounding area to enhance access and improve safety.