The serene Pine Valley Recreation Area in Dixie National Forest is undergoing significant road upgrades, prompting a temporary closure that will impact outdoor enthusiasts. St. George News reports the popular mountain retreat will be closed from September 10 to November 30, to allow for extensive road improvements and maintenance.
Engineers have been closely monitoring the conditions of roads, campgrounds, and trails in the Pine Valley area over the past year. Their assessments have revealed numerous sections of pavement that require replacement or repair, necessitating a comprehensive upgrade project to ensure the long-term sustainability and safety of the recreation area.
Dixie National Forest Service Public Affairs Specialist Jenny Plecki explained the scope of the project: “The purpose of the road project is to prevent and reduce road damage,” she said. “Road work will involve crack sealing, asphalt repairs, chip seal with a seal coat, new shouldering, removal of specific wheel stops, curb stop installation and pavement striping and markings.”
To minimize disruption to outdoor enthusiasts, Plecki advised, “During construction, we recommend camping and recreating at our other dispersed sites and locations throughout the forest.” This suggestion encourages visitors to explore other parts of the Dixie National Forest, potentially discovering new favorite spots while allowing the necessary work to proceed at Pine Valley.
The closure will affect several key areas within the Pine Valley Recreation Area, including the Forsyth Group Area, Dean Gardner Campground, Pine Valley Summer Homes, Pine Valley Guard Station, and various Forest Service Roads. This widespread impact underscores the extensive nature of the planned improvements and the importance of maintaining these vital outdoor spaces for public enjoyment.
While the closure may disappoint some visitors planning autumn trips to Pine Valley, forest officials emphasize that the upgrades are crucial for ensuring the long-term accessibility and appeal of the area. The Pine Valley Recreation Area is a significant location for outdoor activities, offering a variety of campgrounds and facilities that attract nature lovers throughout the year.
The decision to close the entire recreation area during the construction period was made with safety in mind. By restricting public access, construction crews will have the time and space needed to complete the projects efficiently and without the added complication of managing visitor traffic. This approach is expected to expedite the work and ensure a timely reopening of the area.
The Dixie National Forest Service has expressed appreciation for the public’s patience and understanding during this maintenance period. They recognize that the temporary inconvenience may be frustrating for some, but emphasize that the long-term benefits of improved roads and facilities will enhance the outdoor experience for years to come.
Visitors planning trips to the area are strongly encouraged to stay informed about the project’s progress and any potential changes to the reopening date. The official Dixie National Forest website will be the most reliable source for up-to-date information on road conditions and maintenance schedules.
As the closure date approaches, forest officials are reminding the public to respect all closure signs and to avoid interfering with road contractors. “Please respect closure signs and road contractors until the area is open to the public again,” Plecki added.
