Stinking Springs, Egin-Hamer areas closing to all access for winter to protect wildlife

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) – The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Upper Snake Field Office, in collaboration with the Idaho Department of Fish and Game, will temporarily close the Stinking Springs area near the South Fork of the Snake River to all motorized vehicles and human entry to support wildlife survival rates in the area. 

The closure area includes lands east of the Stinking Springs Trailhead and southwest of Kelly Canyon Ski Resort.

This annual closure begins Dec. 15 and ends at sunrise May 1, 2024; however, the opening day could change depending on weather conditions. 

“Human activities in the Stinking Springs area create additional stress on wintering mule deer, requiring them to deplete their supply of stored winter fat more quickly,” BLM Acting Upper Snake Field Manager Bret Herres said. “We appreciate the public’s help every year in avoiding this area to help protect these sensitive animals.” 

For similar reasons, the annual Egin-Hamer area closure will also begin soon. This closure temporarily closes BLM-managed public lands to human entry to protect wintering deer, elk and moose. Restrictions begin Jan. 1, 2024, and ends at sunrise April 1, 2024, south of the Egin-Hamer Road and until sunrise on May 1, 2024, north of it. A detailed map of the Egin-Hamer area closure is available online. 

These seasonal closures apply only to BLM-managed public lands. The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Forest Service also temporarily closes nearby National Forest lands during winter. It is advisable to check with agency offices before planning travel in these areas. For more information, visit the Stinking Springs ATV and Mountain Biking Trail or contact the Upper Snake Field Office at 208-524-7500.