Here in Southern Colorado, spring is still flirting with us. Two weeks ago, it was snowing, last week we had 80 MPH winds and this week it’s been in the upper 60’s with more snow in the forecast.  It’s been so warm and windy that all of eastern Colorado is in an “Extreme Fire Conditions” warning tomorrow Friday 4/22/2022. This is because the high wind expected along with higher-than-normal temps, coupled with single digits atmospheric humidity levels making it a volatile mix.  As wild as it has been on the Valley floor, the snow-capped mountains are looking better by the day. The two seasonal trail crews are starting next week on the Divide District, this means the trail clearing will begin. All the trees that have blown down over the winter will be cut and cleared, the soil erosion that comes with the spring run off will be rerouted to maintain the trails’ integrity, and a fresh survey on the summers’ work will be complied.

Springtime is a crucial time of year for our trails. The daily freeze/thaw cycle that happens combined with high mountain precipitation making the trails wet and muddy drastically increases the potential for damage to the resources from non-natural activity. This damage can continue throughout the year and making trips less enjoyable for the rest of the season. One way the public land managers try to keep this from being too extreme is the seasonal road/trail closures. With so many miles of trail/roads land managers are restricted by resources and time making it so important that the public does their part and embrace the mantra “leave no trace”.

The forest Public Affaires Officer, Gregg Goodland had some good tips to keep in mind to make this as easy as possible.  “Plan your trips keeping aspect in mind. Trails along north-facing slopes, in gullies, or under tree cover tend to be muddier this time of year because they receive less of that warm and drying sunshine. 

If the ground is soft, don’t venture onto it. Tire prints and footprints can make depressions that may change how water is distributed and flows in that area leading to increased erosion.

Respect road closure gates and signs. Just because the road looks dry where you are, doesn’t mean it is dry farther up.

Walk the roads and enjoy the scenery. When it gets soft or muddy, turn around. If you encounter a muddy section or puddle, walk through it instead of around. This will prevent widening the trail. Sure, your boots might get wet or muddy, but that is part of mud season.” Springtime adventures don’t have to be canceled; however a certain amount of care and patience is needed from everyone to help in the stewardship of our public lands and make recreation even more sustainable for the future. 

Agency: U.S Forest Service

Program: Resource Assistant Program (RAP)

Location: Lost Trail