The closure of 1,091.97 acres of public land on State Route 88, near the City of Apache, is expected to last up to two years and has been implemented as a safety precaution.
The temporary closure will facilitate the construction of the Goldfield Recreation Area, a project approved on Oct. 20, 2023. According to an Oct. 20 news release, the area is designed for non-motorized day use and will feature staging areas and specific trails. The development aims to reduce damage to public lands due to increased access to existing trails. "The public provided important input in shaping the final plan. We hope this new area will provide valuable recreation opportunities for visitors and nearby residents alike," said Phoenix district manager Leon Thomas.
Anticipated to commence on Feb. 5, 2024, the closure was officially announced in the Federal Register on Jan. 4. The notice indicates that the closure will persist for approximately two years or until project completion, whichever comes first. However, federal, state or local officers and employees performing official duties are exempt from this closure, as are individuals authorized by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM).
In a Jan. 3 news release announcing the official closure of public lands, Thomas reiterated that safety remains their top priority while expressing enthusiasm about enhancing recreational opportunities in this rapidly growing area outside Phoenix. "Our top priority is the safety of the public, our staff, and contractors. We are excited to work on this area that will increase equestrian, hiking, and biking opportunities," said Thomas.
Located approximately 19 miles northeast of Mesa, the Goldfield Recreation Area is frequented by individuals who float down the Lower Salt River either as an access point or to take out inner tubes as per information from USDA Forest Service. It operates year-round as a day-use area where visitors can stay for one day without motorboats but trailers under 40 feet are permitted. Restrooms are accessible from April 15 to October 14 each year, however, there is no potable water available.
