A Forest Closure Order, number 04-10-26-05-01, went into effect on June 28, 2026, for the Monticello Ranger District of the Manti-La Sal National Forest. The order was issued in response to the Babylon wildfire.
Scope of the closure
The closure encompasses all Forest Service lands within the Dark Canyon Wilderness and Bears Ears National Monument located in San Juan County, Utah.
Purpose of the order
The primary purpose of the order is to protect public health and safety during active wildfire and burning operations. Under the prohibitions, entering or being in the specified area, as well as using roads and trails within the closure zone, is prohibited.
Specific boundaries and routes
The affected area includes several specific routes and landmarks, beginning from the junction of the administrative Forest Boundary and San Juan County Road 285 (Johnson Creek Road). The boundaries extend north along Johnson Creek Road to the junction with Forest Road 50095 (the Causeway Road), then north along the Causeway Road to the junction with Forest Road 5426 (Dry Wash).
The closure continues north along Dry Wash Road to Forest Trail 5385 (Dry Wash Trail), following the trail and drainage to West Mountain peak and the Skyline Trailhead/Shay Ridge Trail junction. It also includes the area from the junction of Shay Ridge Trail and Forest Road 50104 at Aspen Flat Trailhead, north along Forest Road 50104 to the junction with Forest Trail 5021 (Indian Creek Trail), and north along the Indian Creek Trail back to the administrative Forest Boundary.
Duration and permitted exemptions
The order is scheduled to remain in effect from June 28, 2026, through August 31, 2026, unless it is rescinded. Certain exemptions apply, including individuals with Forest Service Permit No. FS-7700-48 and federal, state, or local officers or rescue and firefighting personnel performing official duties.
Penalties for order violations
Violations of this order may be punishable by a fine of up to $5,000 for individuals and $10,000 for organizations, or imprisonment for up to six months, or both.
