Trail work eyed for Lost Man Loop
One of the most popular hiking trails in the upper Roaring Fork Valley is on tap to get some maintenance from volunteer backpackers this weekend.
Three local conservation groups — Wilderness Workshop, Independence Pass Foundation and Roaring Fork Outdoor Volunteers — are teaming with the U.S. Forest Service for trail work on the Lost Man Loop on Independence Pass.
Heavy use over the years has created a trail that is braided and heavily rutted across sensitive terrain above tree line. A designated route will be added in those areas.
Participants will hike in Friday evening to a campsite about 4 miles from the lower Lost Man Trailhead. They will work Saturday and Sunday and be out no later than 5 p.m. Sunday. Volunteers can also hike in and work Saturday, Sunday or both, without staying overnight.
“The restoration project is a great way to spend the weekend in a spectacular location, repairing one of the valley’s most popular wilderness trails,” said Will Roush, conservation director for Wilderness Workshop. “All the food and kitchen equipment is packed in and provided for free, so it’s also an easy way for people to get a taste of backpacking with a great group of people.”
The executive chef for Aspen Skiing Co. will cook Saturday’s dinner and Sunday’s breakfast, said a notice of the event. All food will be provided from Friday night through Sunday lunch, so backpackers can lighten their loads. Backpackers will be asked to grab a tool at the trailhead and bring it up.
Participants should also have a sleeping bag and pad, warm clothes, headlamp, rain gear, closed-toe shoes, sun protection and water bottles. Work gloves are recommended. No stoves or water purifiers are necessary.
Registration is required at http://org2.salsalabs.com/o/5857/p/salsa/event/common/public/?event_KEY=81875.
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