Hazards close Cathedral Rock picnic area on Mount Charleston

The potential for falling limbs from trees damaged during heavy snow and wind storms last winter has prompted officials to close the popular Cathedral Rock picnic area on Mount Charleston.

The number of trees with broken limbs and trees leaning toward picnic areas, restrooms and trails in the area forced the closure, according to the U.S. Forest Service. A team of specialists visited the area this week and deemed it unsafe.

Hikers wanting to hike the Cathedral Rock and South Loop Trails can access them through the Lower Cathedral Rock trailhead located off of state Route 157, outside of the picnic area.