Snake Road in the Shawnee National Forest is temporarily closed to vehicles as snakes and amphibians begin their annual fall migration.
The U.S. Forest Service says Forest Service Road No. 345, commonly known as Snake Road, will remain closed to vehicle traffic through Oct. 30.
The seasonal closure protects several species of snakes and amphibians as they migrate between the LaRue-Pine Hills area’s limestone bluffs and nearby wetlands.
While vehicles are prohibited, visitors can still travel Snake Road on foot. Hikers are asked to remain on the gravel roadway and avoid disturbing wildlife.
Forest Service officials remind visitors that collecting or handling snakes and amphibians is prohibited and could also result in injury.
Snake Road is closed twice each year to accommodate the spring and fall wildlife migrations. For more information about the snake migration and LaRue-Pine Hills Research National Area, click here.