Durango, CO: Ongoing snowfall and intermittent melting of the winter’s record snowfall is necessitating a delayed opening of athletic fields and Lake Nighthorse Recreation Area.
City athletic fields including Smith Sports Complex, Durango Softball and Riverview Sports Complex are currently closed. Dependent on weather and field conditions the projected opening of City athletic fields is April 10, 2023.
Lake Nighthorse Recreation Area opening is delayed to Friday, April 14, pending roadway conditions. The temporary road surface connecting the entrance station to the boat ramp parking lot sustained extensive damage during this year’s massive snowfall. The road is currently saturated and severely damaged (see attached photo). Hopefully, conditions will dry enough to permit vehicular access as snow melts and temperatures increase.
Our trails are also experiencing higher volumes of snow melt and spring runoff than usual. Please consider alternative forms of recreation while the trails are muddy to minimize trail damage during mud season. Seasonal closures remain important for wildlife who have endured this severe winter as well.
“We understand how excited our community is to get out and enjoy these amenities,” said Amy Schwarzbach, natural resources manager for the city’s Parks and Recreation Department. “Unfortunately, the incredible winter snowfall we’ve received is presenting challenges for the conditions of our outdoor facilities. We appreciate the community’s understanding of our need to take care not to damage these areas and resources.”
Please visit DurangoGov.org/ParksRecreation for updates on opening dates of each area or call (970) 375-7321. Updates will also be posted on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.