According to a Pitkin County press release, an aggressive moose has led to the indefinite closure of a trail section near North Star Nature Preserve in Aspen.

In addition to closing a portion of the East of Aspen Trail, Pitkin County said the beach could also be closed if necessary, while a voluntary closure has been ordered for paddlers on the North Star. Signs are posted at the South Gate launch site.

Two cow moose, each with a calf, are frequent visitors to the area. One cow and her calf in particular have been spotted regularly on the East of Aspen Trail, which runs adjacent to the preserve, the release said. Recently, the cow has been attacking trail users. The closed section of the trail is between the South Gate parking lot and the North Star pullout.

Pitkin County Open Space and Trails rangers regularly patrol the area.

“Compliance with the closure is critical to everyone’s safety,” Ranger Supervisor Rick Norman said in the press release. “We don’t want anything to happen to anyone, including the moose.”

Rangers from Open Space and Trails are working with Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) on this situation.

Moose are usually calm and docile animals, but if they feel threatened, they will defend themselves, according to CPW. Moose don’t like dogs. Remember to not only keep your dog on a leash, but also keep him as close to you as possible. If your dog encounters a moose, the animal may become aggressive and try to step on your dog. If your dog runs back to you or you try to catch him, you risk serious injury.

CPW also recommends leaving your headphones at home. While it’s always nice to listen to your favorite playlist or the latest audiobook while enjoying nature, it also makes it difficult to hear what’s going on around you, the press release states.

If you encounter a moose, it’s important to give it space. Even if the moose walks into the bushes and disappears from view, that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s gone or can’t see you anymore. It’s best to quietly and quickly leave the area in the opposite direction, the release said. Signs of moose aggression include ears pinned back, hackles raised, and licking the muzzle. If a moose displays this behavior or attacks, run as fast as you can and try to put a large object between you and the moose, such as a boulder, car, or tree.