With winter retreating and spring on the way, the carriage roads in Acadia National Park are closing to the public for a while due to the arrival of mud season.

The roads will close Thursday and remain closed until they dry out and become firm enough to prevent damage to their gravel surface. The warmer weather and wet conditions have softened the carriage roads and made them susceptible to damage. Walking, bicycling, and riding horses on the carriage roads under the current conditions can cause ruts and potholes that will channel water and exacerbate erosion.

“We’re asking all visitors to help protect the historic carriage road system and prevent costly repairs by cooperating with this temporary closure,” said Superintendent Kevin Schneider.

While these historic carriage roads are closed, the Park Service encourages visitors to enjoy Acadia’s hiking trails and the Park Loop Road, which is closed to motor vehicles until April 15. When hiking, you should be prepared for icy conditions and carry traction devices for your shoes. When walking or biking on the sections of the Park Loop Road that are closed to motor vehicles, be aware of closed gates, and the possibility of snow, ice, debris, and an occasional official vehicle or equipment on the road.

Acadia’s 45 miles of carriage roads, along with the associated coping stones, gatehouses, stone-faced bridges, and other features, are the best and most extensive example of broken-stone roads in the United States and provide both sweeping vistas and close-up views of the landscape.