East of Aspen Closure

A portion of the East of Aspen Trail near North Star Nature Preserve has been closed indefinitely in response to an aggressive moose. The Beach may also be posted as closed as warranted. In addition, a voluntary closure is now in effect for paddlers at North Star. Signs are posted at the South Gate launch site.

Two female moose, each with a calf, have been frequenting the area. One cow and her calf, in particular, have been spotted regularly on the East of Aspen Trail, which runs alongside the preserve. Recently, the cow has charged at trail users. The closed section of the trail is between the South Gate parking lot and the North Star takeout.

Pitkin County Open Space and Trails rangers have been regularly patrolling the area. “Respecting the closure is crucial for everyone’s safety. We don’t want harm to come to anyone, including the moose,” Ranger Supervisor Rick Norman said.

If you come across a moose, here are some tips for how to stay safe:

Give the moose space.

Calmly and quickly leave the area in the opposite direction of the moose.

Recognize signs of moose aggression: laid-back ears, raised hairs on the neck, licking of the snout.

If the moose appears aggressive or charges you, run as fast as you can and put a large object between you and the moose, like a boulder, car or tree.

Just because a moose is out of sight, doesn’t mean it’s gone or that it can’t see you.