December 16, 2019

PRESS RELEASE

RE:  Backcountry Winter Road Closures

     The Bonneville County Sheriff’s Office would like to remind everyone that as of December 12th, 2019, a number of our backcountry roads are now closed for the winter.  This is a yearly occurrence in our backcountry as many are groomed for winter recreation use only and not plowed or maintained for vehicle traffic.  Every year Deputies encounter vehicles that drive past the road closed signs and cause damage to the groomed trail system or get stuck.  Because winter weather can set in fast and a great deal of these areas have no cell service, it can be dangerous for people who are not prepared for winter survival.  Several times a year Deputies respond to these incidents beyond a road closed sign where a vehicle is stuck, has little or no fuel, no winter clothing, young children, or a lack of emergency equipment supplies.  Most of the time these people traveled past the road closed sign because they see vehicle tracks and think road conditions are passable, but end up stuck and in an emergency situation. 

     The Bonneville County Sheriff’s Office and our team of Search and Rescue Volunteers want everyone to enjoy the backcountry as they plan for various winter recreation activities.  The time and effort to fix and repair damaged roads and groomed trails hampers everyone’s ability to enjoy their winter recreation.  Always remember that Road Closed signs are put up for a reason and those that ignore them and travel beyond are subject to possible citations under state law or county ordinance and potentially incur the extensive costs for retrieval of your vehicle.  Anytime you travel in winter conditions, take the time to be prepared for emergencies, let others know your travel plans, and pay attention to your driving.  Always respect private property and if you see anyone traveling in a vehicle on a closed road immediately report it to dispatch at 208-529-1200.

     The following areas are part of the winter road closure in Bonneville County:

Kepps Crossing and Eagles Pass

Bone Road and Blackfoot Reservoir Road beyond the Snowmobile parking lots

Foothill Road between 85th E. and 115th E.

Johnson Road from 101st N. to the Blacktail Road

Bear Creek

Meadow Creek

Fall Creek

Snake River Road from Vanoy Dugway to Indian Creek