Love is in the air for Rocky Mountain National Park’s elk herds, meaning closures are in place. Fall mating season has begun, also known as the elk rut.

On Sept. 1, annual meadow closures went into effect in Rocky Mountain National Park to prevent park visitors from disturbing or harassing elk during their rut. A news release from the park stated that meadow closures are also in place to enhance wildlife viewing experiences for visitors who wish to watch elk as they gather in large herds for mating season.

Meadow closures are from 5 p.m. to 10 a.m. Closures are in areas in Horseshoe Park, Upper Beaver Meadows, Moraine Park, Harbison Meadow and Holzwarth Meadow. During the times, the meadow areas will be closed to all travel on foot or horseback off established roads and trails. These closures will remain in effect through Oct. 31.

Fishing locations along the Fall River, Thompson River, and Colorado River that are accessed by walking through closed meadow areas are closed to anglers between 5 p.m. to 7 a.m.

Rocky Mountain National Park is a popular location for visitors to watch the elk rut. It is home to over 3,000 elk in the fall months. The peak of the rut usually lasts from mid-September to mid-October.

During rut, visitors can hear bull elk make their famous bugle. This is a magnificent call to attract their mate, which includes a mixtures of sounds, including screeching and shouting. They also spar with other bulls for dominance — the winner earns the right to mate.

When viewing elk keep back at least 75 feet; this is the length of two school buses. As a reminder, the use of elk calling and the use of spotlights or vehicle headlights to view wildlife is prohibited in the park.

“Keep your distance and view wildlife with respect,” the news release stated.