In case you missed it, there's some pretty damning evidence of a damaging rockfall that took place on the popular Barr Trail near Colorado Springs following big snow in the area over recent weeks.
Large boulders are present on the lower portion of the Manitou Springs trail, along with downed trees in the area and broken fencing. In the past, similar situations in Colorado have resulted in lengthy closures for repair and mitigation, but the future for the popular trail remains up in the air, as of last correspondence with the City of Manitou Springs.
A tree covers the Barr Trail following recent damage. Photo: Spencer McKee.
On March 27, a spokesperson for the city stated that they're still waiting to hear back from the Forest Service after an onsite assessment before moving forward in any way. The Manitou Incline reservation page, nor city social media pages also provide no update on the situation.
While the Barr Trail is popular in its own right as a key method of traveling to the Pikes Peak summit, many people on the trail use it for their return trip from the summit of the heavily-trafficked Manitou Incline, with the damage to the trail being seen on the lower three-mile stretch frequented by these hikers. A closure on this portion of the trail for any sort of damage repair or mitigation could be problematic, forcing those on the Manitou Incline to climb back down the steep 'staircase'-style route, at least to the point where another newer trail intersects the path. In a scenario where foot traffic is heading both up and down the Manitou Incline route, it's reasonable to wonder if the number of required reservations available for the popular hike may be further limited.
The OutThere Colorado team will continue to follow this story and will provide updates as they are made available.
In the meantime, those using the Barr Trail, should exercise caution. Rocks may still be unsettled and traveling through damaged areas could pose risk.
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ootay
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