Glenwood Canyon’s Hanging Lake trail reconstruction project needs a contractor
Plans call for the project to run from April to November, 2024
Chelsea Self/Post Independent
The White River National Forest is proceeding with plans to reconstruct the Hanging Lake Trail. The National Forest Foundation on Oct. 9 issued a Request for Proposals to complete this work and ensure the long-term sustainability of the site.
In 2021, a debris flow originating from the Grizzly Creek fire burn scar significantly damaged the Hanging Lake Trail. The debris flow covered major trail sections, swept away bridges, downed trees, and buried the trail in mud, boulders, and logs; spring flooding that occurred in 2023 caused additional damage.
Since the debris flows, the White River National Forest, the National Forest Foundation and its partners have developed detailed plans to build a more sustainable and resilient trail. A combination of trail improvements and ecological restoration is anticipated to begin in spring 2024. The project is funded through Great Outdoors Colorado, the Colorado Parks and Wildlife State Trails Program, the National Forest Foundation, the city of Glenwood Springs, and the U.S. Forest Service.
Access up the steep, rocky canyon is difficult. Trail reconstruction will require a significant amount of rock work to be completed by hand, with limits to protect sensitive resources. Experience working in sensitive, high-visitation environments will be critical to a successful reconstruction project.
“The Hanging Lake Trail draws visitors from around the world because it is situated in a unique and beautiful canyon,” White River National Forest Supervisor Scott Fitzwilliams said. “We are seeking a team with exceptional skills to help us reconstruct the trail in a way that protects sensitive resources, highlights the beauty of the area, and adds to the visitor experience.”
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The project is expected to last from April to November of 2024. Trail closures will be necessary when the reconstruction project begins. “Our intent is to minimize the amount of time the trail is closed to the public for construction,” Fitzwilliams said. “We ask for patience as we reconstruct the trail for the long term.”
Prospective bidders can review the Request for Proposals and additional details about the project on the National Forest Foundation’s website.
Reservations are required to visit Hanging Lake and are available at visitglenwood.com.
