Colorado Parks and Wildlife is assessing the adverse effects of the Galena Fire on Lory State Park, which is closed until further notice. The fire consumed between 800 and 1,000 acres of public land. The fire started off park and is still under investigation. No buildings were damaged, but numerous pedestrian bridges in the lower valley trail system were burned in the fire.
Since the fire is still active, park personnel have not assessed all potential hazards within the park. Visitor safety is Parks and Wildlife’s first priority along with providing a sustainable recreational and natural resource environment.
“We appreciate the hard work of the emergency personnel who responded quickly to protect the visitors, neighbors and natural resources within Lory State Park,” park manager Larry Butterfield said. “Once all hazards can be assessed we’ll have a better idea of how soon Lory will be able to reopen.”
Colorado Parks and Wildlife will work with all of the park’s partners, volunteers and the surrounding community to care for and restore the park.
“We ask for the community to be patient as we work through the rehabilitation,” Butterfield added. “We appreciate the public’s continued understanding and support.”