Frisby Ridge Trail Remains Closed Until July 15

A general wildlife closure or equivalent use restriction is being considered to replace the early-season caribou closure on Frisby Ridge.

"The Frisby Ridge Trail remains closed to the public until July 15," said Recreation Sites & Trails BC in a statement. "The closure protects important wildlife habitat values."

The caribou closure was established when the trail was opened in 2011 to protect caribou habitat during the calving season. Sadly, the local herd was listed as functionally extirpated by ministry biologists last fall despite many efforts to protect the animals. A snowmobile closure was lifted in November, which raised questions about the status of the early-summer closure.

In response, RSTBC and the Ecosystems Division of the Ministry of Water Land and Resource Stewardship announced they are maintaining the closure to protect other wildlife, specifically grizzly bears, which use the area during the late-spring and early-summer period. This is similar to the closure that exists on the Sproat Mountain trail south of Revelstoke.

Using the trail before it is open can result in fines and other penalties. Repeated violations could result in the trail being closed permanently.

The Revelstoke Cycling Association supports these efforts to protect wildlife on Frisby Ridge and elsewhere. There are other opportunities to enjoy alpine riding around Revelstoke before July 15, such as Keystone-Standard Basin and Revelstoke Mountain Resort.