Hiking and biking trails in the Burnt Mountain area are closed for elk calving until June 21.
Snowmass Village coordinated with Colorado Parks and Wildlife and the US Forest Service on the closures.
Elk, particularly pregnant or nursing cows, are hungry in the spring after a winter with sparse food sources.
They’re attracted to the food, water and seclusion in the forests near Snowmass. Hikers, dogs and mountain bikers stress the elk, making it hard to care for their young.
Violations of the closures could result in fines ranging from $50 to $5,000.
The Tom Blake, Anaerobic Nightmare and Sequel Trails are closed, and the Government Trail closes May 15.