ACADIA NATIONAL PARK – The springtime thaw and rains have prompted park officials to close the park’s gravel carriage roads until further notice.

The closure, which is aimed at protecting the roads from damage by hikers and bikers, went into effect Monday, March 31, and is expected to last at least two weeks, park officials indicated Monday in a release.

Park visitors are asked to stay off carriage roads that are posted or other roads that are soft enough for hikers or bicycles to leave tracks in them, the release indicated. The roads need to dry out so they won’t be damaged and need costly repairs.

Meanwhile, hikers and bikers are encouraged to use the paved Park Loop Road, which is scheduled to be reopened to motor vehicles on April 15, according to park officials. Visitors are urged to use caution, however, as the road is still icy in spots and may be partially blocked by other wintertime hazards such as fallen rocks or trees. Bicyclists also need to be careful of closed gates across the road and the possible presence of heavy snow-removal equipment.

The public can check on park conditions by dialing 288-3338 and then pressing “0” or by visiting www.nps.gov/acad on the Internet.