Springerville, AZ; December 29, 2014—Arizona State Highways 261 and 273 along with Forest Service roads 409, 112 and 87 that access Highway 273 will be closed beginning December 30, 2014. Access to the Big Lake, Crescent Lake or Mexican Hay Lake areas via Highway 273 and 261 will be closed by the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT), and will remain closed until spring.  The normal closure dates for Hwy. 261 & 273 is December 31, but in anticipation of the upcoming winter storm, ADOT is closing a day early.

“We want to remind visitors to the Springerville Ranger District, ADOT will be closing Highway 273 from the Forest/Reservation boundary to Crescent Lake, and Highway 261 from Mexican Hay Lake to Crescent Lake,” Marcia Pfleiderer, Springerville District Ranger stated.

Forest Service roads are open at this time but may be impassable, depending on weather and road conditions. The U.S. Forest Service does not maintain roads during the winter months.  ADOT will not be snowplowing State Highway 261 and State Highway 273. Both of these highways are classified as secondary highways since they do not have the volume of traffic other main highways have in the area.

Reminder before hunting or recreating, please let someone know the route you are planning to take, the time you left and when you are expected to return.  Weather conditions can change rapidly, be prepared with a survival kit including extra food and water. We want your visit to the forest to be a memorable and positive one!

Additional information can be found on ADOT’s “Know Snow” Webpage at www.azdot.gov/KnowSnow.  Drivers are also encouraged to call 5-1-1 or log on to ADOT’s Traveler Information Center at www.az511.gov for the latest highway conditions around the state.