BOULDER, Colo. – Brainard Lake Recreation Area will be closed to vehicle traffic west of the main access gate near the fee station starting at 6 p.m., Sunday, Oct. 19. This is an annual closure due to changing weather patterns, snow, high winds and icy road conditions.

The area remains open to pedestrian access, and no fee is required. Parking is available at the Brainard Gateway Trailhead parking lot east of the gate and fee station.

Caution is advised for pedestrian visitors as high winds and recently saturated soil increases the risk for dangerous blow-down and hazard trees falling.

Visitors on foot may see concessionaire staff on-site, finalizing seasonal operations and winterizing the facilities.

The Forest Service reminds visitors to “know before you go” this winter. Be prepared and check forecasts for changing weather and road conditions before heading out to the forest.

For additional information about Boulder Ranger District call 303-541-2500 or visit the Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests and Pawnee National Grasslands website at http://www.fs.usda.gov/arp, follow us on Twitter at http://www.twitter.com/usfsarp and like us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/usfsarp