Coconino National Forest Reopens Following Recent Rains
The US Forest Service is reopening Coconino National Forest following recent rains, though officials caution that fire danger remains extreme and Stage 2 Fire restrictions are in place.
Specific closures around active wildfires, such as the Rafael Fire in the Sedona area, may still be in effect. This list of forest orders detailing specific closure areas will keep you up to date.
In a statement issued July 5, the Forest Service asks for patience as workers “remove gates, locks and barriers throughout the coming days.”
Stage 2 restrictions prohibit:
- Igniting fires, campfires, charcoal, coal, smudge pots and wood stoves (except using a stove or grill that is solely fueled by pressurized liquid petroleum or pressurized liquid petroleum gas (LPG) fuels).
- Smoking (except within an enclosed vehicle or building, a developed recreation site, or while stopped in an area at least 3 feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of any flammable material).
- During the hours of 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., operating a chainsaw or other equipment powered by an internal combustion engine for felling, bucking, skidding, processing, road building and woodcutting during industrial operations or firewood gathering capable of igniting a fire.
- During the hours of 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., using a blasting, welding, or operating an acetylene or other torch with an open flame.
- Using explosives and fireworks is always prohibited on all National Forest land.
The following links provide the latest fire and road closure information including state parks in the Sedona area, such as Red Rock State Park and Slide Rock State Park:
AZ Department of Forestry and Fire Management Facebook
You can contact the appropriate Ranger Stations for updated fire information:
Flagstaff Ranger Station: 928-526-0866
Red Rock Ranger Station: 928-282-4119
Mogollon Rim Ranger Station: 928-477-2255
Forest Supervisor’s Office: 928-527-3600
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With hiking, biking and other outdoor recreation returning to the public lands around Sedona, now is the best time to sample adventure and natural splendor throughout the Verde Valley. From dining at one of our fabulous restaurants, to touring nearby national monuments, or nourishing your soul with a wellness retreat, here are 76 activities that will make your visit to Sedona a memorable one.
Before you arrive, please join us in our commitment to environmental stewardship by signing the Sedona Cares Pledge.
Thank you for recreating responsibly for a sustainable Sedona!