Numerous road closures may affect trailhead parking during the winter months. From an alert on the DEWA website: “Areas that will be closed through the winter were selected based on several factors including winterization of water supply systems, reduced custodial and maintenance staff, safety requirements, resource protection, and other priorities for snow and ice removal. Closures will go into effect on January 2, 2025, or at the first significant snowfall, whichever comes first. Most sites will re-open on April 15 while others will re-open in May.”
- The section of Old Mine Road between the Worthington State Forest boundary and Millbrook Village at the southern end of the park and the dirt section of Old Mine Road near Van Campen Inn will be CLOSED for winter.
- The northern section of Old Mine Road between Mettler Road and the intersection with Route 206 will receive NO WINTER MAINTENANCE. This 4-mile section of road will not be plowed or treated for ice and may be closed if safety hazards arise. Depending on the weather, roads may be snow-covered and icy. Travel on this section of road is at your own risk. Cell phone service is not reliable.
- Blue Mountain Lakes Road be closed to vehicles at the bottom of the hill prior to a storm and will be re-opened when conditions allow. When the road is closed, visitors may walk, ski, or snowshoe on the road to access the Blue Mountain Lakes trailhead, Skyline Drive, Crater Lake, and the Appalachian Trail.
- The NPS section of Mountain Road will be closed to vehicles for the winter. The historic bridge over the Flatbrook in Walpack Center remains closed indefinitely due to substantial structural damage.
- Jager Road, from Old Mine Road to the park boundary, will receive no winter maintenance.
Trail Access:
All trails that are currently open will remain open during the winter, but trailhead parking will be dependent on conditions and may be limited in some areas. Road closures may also affect access to some trails. Trailhead parking areas that will remain open during the winter months will not be cleared of ice and snow until after all priority routes are clear and safe for travel. Trails are not maintained or groomed and may be ice and/or snow covered during the winter months.
For additional information visit www.nps.gov/dewa