Anyone caught violating the current closure of Mount Washington’s Tuckerman Ravine could face hefty fines and even prison time.
Spring is usually when crowds of thrillseekers flock to Tuckerman for some of the most exciting skiing and riding of the year.
But after more than 400 people showed up at the ravine last week despite the ongoing coronavirus pandemic and recommendations by state and federal officials for social distancing and to stay home, officials have since taken steps to deter people from going to the ravine.
On Monday, the U.S. Forest Service announced it was closing a section of the Tuckerman Ravine Trail to all use. Now officials have taken bigger steps.
Yesterday, the Jackson, New Hampshire Police Department announced on its Facebook page that, per an order of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Tuckerman Ravine and all associated trails and access ways at closed to all travel.
Violating the order is a federal offense with signficant consequences. Violators can receive a fine of up to $5,000, plus serve up to six months in prison.
The statement by the Jackson, New Hampshire Police Department:
By order of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service Division, Tuckerman’s Ravine, and associated trails and access ways will be closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
This is a difficult but necessary step for the protection of participants as well as staff and rescue elements that may need to respond in the event of an emergency.
Violations of this restriction are SERIOUS. It is a Federal offense to violate this order, punishable by up to a $5,000.00 dollar fine and 6 months in prison (U.S.C., 18 U.S.C. 3559, and 3571)
