Coconino NF to reopen to public 6 a.m. July 6; Stage 2 restrictions will be in effect

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz., July 5, 2021 — The Coconino National Forest will reopen to the public beginning 6 a.m. July 6.

Recreation technicians ask for patience as they work to remove gates, locks and barriers throughout the coming days.

The decision to reopen the forest was made based on the amount of recent rainfall that occurred across all three districts of the forest. Stage 2 fire restrictions will be in effect upon reopening.

Stage 2 restrictions prohibit the following:

1. Igniting fires, campfires, charcoal, coal, smudge pots and wood stoves (except using a stove or grill that is solely fueled by pressurized liquid petroleum or pressurized liquid petroleum gas (LPG) fuels).
2. Smoking (except within an enclosed vehicle or building, a developed recreation site, or while stopped in an area at least 3 feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of any flammable material)
3. During the hours of 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., operating a chainsaw or other equipment powered by an internal combustion engine for felling, bucking, skidding, processing, road building and woodcutting during industrial operations or firewood gathering capable of igniting a fire.
4. During the hours of 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., using a blasting, welding, or operating an acetylene or other torch with an open flame.
5. Using explosives and fireworks is always prohibited on all National Forest land.

While the forest-wide closure will be lifted, specific closures around active wildfires – such as the Rafael Fire, Backbone Fire, Slate Fire and Snake Fire – may still be in effect. A full list of forest orders detailing specific closure areas is available on the Coconino NF’s website.

Fire danger remains extreme across all forest districts, and forest visitors are asked to remain vigilant and refrain from any behavior that may accidentally start a wildfire. Drivers should avoid dragging chains and driving vehicles over dry vegetation that may ignite.

Violation of the restrictions on national forests is punishable by a fine of up to $5,000, imprisonment up to six months, or both.

For more information about this press release or have questions regarding the reopening of Sedona trails, visit the Coconino National Forest on Twitter.

Let’s Hike Sedona Again!

We are thrilled that the Coconino National Forest Service will reopen the trails in Sedona.  With our monsoon in full effect and the nearby fires being contained, we are happy that the decision was made to reopen as soon as possible.  Now is the time to plan your next hike.  We have added a few hikes to our Sedona Hiking page.  We’ve reviewed Little Horse Trail, Bell Rock Trail and Fay Canyon. There are restrictions at our favorite hike at Cathedral Rock in regards to trailhead parking, find out more information and find alternatives when parking is not available.  Remember to buy your Sedona Red Rock Passes which are still necessary when parking on the trailheads, we have information on that too.

Slide Rock State Park is also open again.  We reviewed Slide Rock and we tell you all about the pros and cons of visiting it.  Red Rock State Park is still open and one of the most popular places to visit in Sedona over the 4th of July weekend.

It is definitely time to schedule a Jeep Tour.  It is a great way to explore everything Sedona has to offer.  Here’s our list of the most popular Jeep Tours in Sedona.

As always, if the trails are too busy or hiking isn’t for you, check out our list of Best Things to do near Sedona Besides Hiking. We review Montezuma’s Castle and taking a drive to visit Jerome.

Hope to see you on or off the Sedona Trails soon!