Due to another round of snowy conditions, roads to the Pawnee Buttes Trailhead are likely to be muddy and slick this weekend causing the U.S. Forest Service to cancel the grand reopening ceremonies originally scheduled for April 20 and then rescheduled for May 4.
The trailhead is located 56 miles from Ault and 73 miles from Greeley, northwest of New Raymer.
“I am very disappointed we have not been able to hold this event showcasing our great facility, but the safety of our visitors and guests are of the utmost importance,” Pawnee National Grassland District Ranger Lori Bell said. “I hope everyone gets a chance to enjoy all the trailhead has to offer once conditions improve.”
The U.S. Forest Service was able to complete the various improvements at the trailhead with the support of partners, including the Federal Highway Administration’s National Scenic Byway Program, the Pawnee Pioneer Trails Scenic and Historic Byway Committee, and Cedar Creek Wind Energy, LLC.
Approximately $250,000, mostly received from grants, was spent to reroute the trail, build a new parking area, and add picnic tables and shelters, restrooms, and interpretive information. A portion of the new trail is also ADA accessible. Volunteers helped with some of the trail construction.
For more information about recreational activities, please call the Pawnee National Grassland (PNG) office at 970-346-5000 or check online at www.fs.usda.gov/goto/arp/pngrecreation.
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