BOULDER CITY, Nevada - This year, Goldstrike Canyon Trail will close April 15 through Sept. 30, and Arizona Hot Spring Trail will close May 15 through Sept. 30.
The earlier closure for Goldstrike Trail is required because construction for the new Interstate-11 will shift traffic onto U.S. Highway 93. Access to the trail via U.S. 93 will be closed, starting April 15. Once construction is complete, the annual summer closure will be in effect through Sept. 30.
Park management implemented seasonal closures on these two trails four years ago after public safety incidents significantly increased.
Goldstrike Canyon is a strenuous hike, requiring bouldering and climbing. It leads to Goldstrike and Nevada hot springs and the Colorado River. The area known as White Rock Canyon has multiple trails leading to the Arizona Hot Spring, Liberty Bell Arch and the Colorado River.
During the closure period, visitors may still access the popular hot springs via the Colorado River. Other less strenuous trails through the park will also remain open. Those who choose to hike during the summer are encouraged to follow summer safety tips found online at http://www.nps.gov/lake/planyourvisit/summer-hiking.htm.
Maps of the closure areas can be viewed at
https://www.nps.gov/lake/learn/news/images/CN-18-001-Signed-Goldstrike-Canyon.jpg
https://www.nps.gov/lake/learn/news/images/CN-18-002-Signed-White-Rock-Canyon.jpg
According to the Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada, the I-11 is expected to be complete and open to traffic October 2018.
-NPS-
Tags: closures trails lake mead
Source: U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service
