One of the most popular, and sometimes hectic, dirt trails in Breckenridge is getting a facelift in coming weeks.
Aspen Alley at Boreas Pass makes the short list of U.S. Forest Service trail projects this summer. Says the Forest Service, “The proposed Aspen Alley Trail is intended to mitigate user conflicts and enhance overall safety by providing a more sustainable and intentional alignment for trail traffic.”
The new Aspen Alley will run almost parallel to the existing trail as it weaves through old mine tailings and aspen groves. The upper and lower trailheads remain the same, and so does the access – the Forest Service is NOT rebuilding this for mountain bikers or hikers only.
Why the rebuild then? According to the Forest Service, Aspen Alley needs to be wider and more consistent. The new trail will be approximately four feet wide from top to bottom with at least 10 feet of clearance. This should (hopefully) make it easier for hikers and bikers to peacefully coexist on a trail rated No. 1 in the area by MTB Project for steep, fast and colorful hot laps.
In recent years town of Breck has considered rules to inspire (enforce?) peaceful coexistence, like alternating days for hikers and bikers. It was never implemented.
The Forest Service is taking public comment now on the Aspen Alley rebuild. A decision will be made by June for construction beginning in July. The new trail will likely reopen in time for autumn color season.
Meanwhile, up north…
Aspen Alley is the first of two small trail projects in Breck. The Forest Service also wants to build a new trail north of town, connecting Airport Road to the existing Barton Trail.
They’re calling it the North Barton Trail, and it will be a short one at just less than 1 mile long. The reason for this one: A growing neighborhood needs it.
“The proposed North Barton Trail would serve as a critical link to the surrounding trail network, supporting increased access and connectivity in light of recent and continued proximal housing development,” the Forest Service writes in a memo.
Public comment is open now. If approved, this project would also begin this summer.
Preview image of Aspen Alley via MTB Project.