WOW the South Slope is going to be opened!

After years of talk, and several studies, Colorado Springs has declared the South Slope will be opened for recreation this year. Before you head up there, here are a few things you should know.

First, until the trail system can be built, the only access will be through guided tours. There will be a fee for the tours with the proceeds going to fund the development of the area.  If you would like to take the tours or if you would be willing to be trained as a tour guide, contact us at South Slope Interest.

To be a guide, you will have to take some training and be available a minimum number of days this summer. The full plan for the guided hikes is still being worked out. But, it would be helpful to know how many people are interested in taking the tours, or being guides.

Secondly, the trail alignments are being finalized, and should be finished early summer. Volunteers will be asked to build the trails. It has been a long time since we have had an opportunity on Pikes Peak to build new trails. This may be the last opportunity in a long time. We will probably have crew leader training in mid summer, with work days available late summer. Again, the details are being worked out.

Lastly, this area will be closed to dogs. All dogs, even those in your car, or on a leash are not allowed. Considering Colorado Springs is “Dog City USA” some explanation is in order. The reason for this ban is not that anyone hates dogs, or think dogs are bigger polluters than say elk. The reason is: this is a critical habitat for Big Horn Sheep. Sheep see dogs as predators and run away. When they run away they use energy, and living as they do in the alpine tundra they don’t have a lot of energy reserve. Even if the dog is completely contained, leashed or otherwise not a threat to the sheep, the sheep do not know that.

This herd of sheep is a historically important herd. It was resident here on Pikes Peak before the settlers. Currently the herd numbers are declining. The reasons are unknown and may have nothing to do with interactions with people. But, the biologists say the presence of dogs would put additional stress on the already fragile herd. If we are to keep this herd on Pikes Peak, we need to respect its territory. So please, spread the word. Come to the south slope to enjoy the wetlands and the forests, to enjoy the views of Pikes Peak, and to fish the reservoirs. Come in the hopes of seeing the big horn sheep. But, leave the dogs at home.