Shooting in the National Forrest

[cowxguy]

Anyone know the laws on this? I have a few places I like to shoot up here in the mountains. As far as I know it is legal as long as you are 1/4 mile away from any trailhead.

[Eow]

That is a good question, I would like to know what restrictions there are if anyone knows?

[Chief_of_Scouts]

From the USDA Forest Service website (ref: Pike & San Isabel Forests)

...recreational shooting is generally permitted in the National Forest there are exceptions and conditions. The exceptions are normally outlined in Special Orders. In this case, Special Order 91-08 prohibits recreation/target shooting in all of El Paso County including the area west of Monument. You can obtain a map from us that shows you exactly where these restrictions apply. The best alternative area for recreation/target shooting west of Monument is off Mt. Herman Road and down Forest Development Road (FDR) 322A. This area is located in Teller County approximately six miles from Red Rocks Ranch Road. The other common sense conditions are as follows: (1) you cannot discharge a firearm in or within 150 yards of a residence, building, campsite, developed recreation site or occupied area (2) you cannot discharge a firearm across or on a Forest Development road or a body of water adjacent thereto, or in any manner or place whereby any person or property is exposed to injury or damage as a result in such discharge (3) you cannot discharge a firearm into or within any cave. I would also advise you to familiarize yourself with Colorado State law regarding possessing and transporting firearms.

[theGinsue]

Hey Silas, do you have the link to this information? I need to pass it on to some folks.

[Chief_of_Scouts]

Hey Silas, do you have the link to this information? I need to pass it on to some folks.

Sure, here it is: http://www.fs.fed.us/r2/psicc/faq/index.shtml#Q40

[Eow]

Thanks for the info, that is exactly what I was looking for!

[Rampart Runner]

Anyone know the laws on this? I have a few places I like to shoot up here in the mountains. As far as I know it is legal as long as you are 1/4 mile away from any trailhead.

All of El Paso County is now closed due to a special order. DO NOT ASSUME that just because you are off the trails a ways that you are go. A citation sucks.

[ColoEnthusiast]

FYI Not everyone may be aware of this, but never shoot at the large items left by idiots. You can be cited or at the very least be required to dispose of whatever it is... If it happens to be a refrigerator and you're driving a Smart Car, you might have a problem.

[kidicarus13]

FYI Not everyone may be aware of this, but never shoot at the large items left by idiots. You can be cited or at the very least be required to dispose of whatever it is.

Sez who?

[ColoEnthusiast]

Forest Ranger told me that a few years ago. It was true then, have no doubt it still is.