As of December 1st, Skyline Forest and other areas in Central Oregon are under Winter Range Closures. The Tumalo Winter Range Cooperative Closure includes Skyline Forest and closes the area to motorized vehicles from December 1st through March 31st. The closure prohibits the use of motorized vehicles including snowmobiles and e-bikes. This closure is an initiative by the Bureau of Land Management, Deschutes National Forest, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, and cooperating landowners. Winter range closures help increase the winter survival of mule deer and elk, and to protect and improve wildlife habitat.

While the Deschutes Land Trust has not yet protected Skyline Forest, we urge the public to respect all private property in the area and comply with the Winter Range Closure and related regulations. Disturbance and/or harassment of wintering deer and elk is not limited to motorized vehicles. Any disturbance, intentional or unintentional, can stress these animals at a time when they can least afford it, and in the process, threaten their survival. See the Tumalo Winter Range Closure map.

In addition, the following other areas in Central Oregon are closed due to wildlife winter range:

• Cabin/Silver Lake area
• Metolius Winter Range area (including Alder Springs)
• Opine Travel Management area

Learn more:

• Why is Winter Range Important for Wildlife?
• Herd Nerd: All About Elk