Colorado mountain communities lift fire restrictions

Increased moisture and cooler autumn temperatures have led several Colorado mountain communities and national forests to lift fire restrictions. Notably, the White River National Forest, the most visited national forest in the United States, exited Stage 1 fire restrictions on September 25, allowing for backcountry campfires for the first time in several months.

Local governments in Pitkin, Summit, Eagle, and Garfield counties have also removed restrictions. Other areas, including the Pike-San Isabel National Forest, Comanche National Grasslands, and Moffat County, have similarly rescinded rules earlier this month.

However, some regions remain under Stage 1 restrictions, including Grand and Routt counties, as well as portions of the Medicine Bow-Routt, Arapaho, and Roosevelt National Forests. Stage 1 rules prohibit open fires and campfires outside of developed campgrounds with designated rings, and place limits on outdoor smoking and certain power tools. Officials warn that while danger has decreased following a record-hot summer and period of deep drought, visitors must remain vigilant.