By Mary Burger
Once upon a time, there was a “logging” road on the western slope of Pikes Peak. The road ended near treeline. But a cairn route to the alpine tundra allowed the occasional hiker to scale the gentle side of the peak to view the alpine environs above treeline. In 1960 the road was closed to motorized use, but the hikers continued to use the little known route. The area has been a favorite for local snowshoe enthusiasts, as the western slope of Pikes Peak holds a passable amount of snow most years.
The forest service policy for old roads was to simply allow them to revert naturally without any intervention by mankind. Because of the placement of the road, it held water much of the time and the route became eroded, and nearly impassable except when covered by snow.
In 1999, with the conclusion of the Pikes Peak Master Plan, the USFS decided to make the existing trail a system trail, and asked FOTP to begin maintenance. We agreed. In 2000 we installed critical water drainage features, and constructed a bridge across the stream where the trail takes off from the Crags trail.
We also began the arduous task of construction raised trail and trench drain in the road, which had become the waterway.
This year, we returned twice more to the western side of Pikes Peak. More raised trail, more trench, and drains were installed. By the end of the season, we reclaimed almost a mile of trail. We are now to the second water crossing. Next year, we hope to make it to the third water crossing.
Of course, this entire time, the whole route has been available to the non-motorized user. More and more people have discovered this jewel of a trail. I observed 50 to 100 people a day, mid-week, mid summer using this assent. It is a beautiful area, and if any ascent of over a mile elevation gain can be called gentle, this would be a gentle ascent. But, the resource damage above tree line is becoming all too apparent.
It is not legal to walk on the highway from Devil's Playground to the summit. There has never been an official trail to the summit from Devil's Playground. Many people ascend from this direction and the alpine tundra is the worse for wear because of it. Next year, we hope to be able to install a trail across the boulder field to the summit. The USFS will soon announce a public input period to allow this trail to be built. If/when we obtain permission to build the trail. We hope we will be assisted by VOC, (Volunteers for Outdoor Colorado). If all goes according to plan you can join us on this trail next year. Look for it in your spring newsletter.
