East End Trail Project at the River Trails

Last year, at the far East End of the River Trails, heavy rains extended a washout and new ravine where there used to be a small foot bridge. The LMBC has received grant money from New Belgium Brewery which will go to pay for a replacement. We think a bridge is necessary in this area, as the bottoms will continue to be muddy and wash out, while a bridge can direct the trail to high areas less prone to erosion.

The club has formed an East End Crew to plan the bridge replacement. On January 31, 2009, we hiked out to consider our options. These pictures show the area, the damage, and the possible location for a new bridge.

At mile marker 4, looking down from the top of the drop into the new ravine. Full size image (5MB)

Looking back across the washout from the other side. Full size image (6MB)

The old bridge, much too small for the new span, simply fell to the bottom of the washout. Full size image (4MB)

Looking upstream (west). Full size image (5MB)

A montage of two pictures showing the possible location of a new bridge at the far east end of the ravine. Full size image - left (5MB), Full size image - right (5MB)

The East End Crew: Jeff, Art, Neil, Rick, Justin, plus Pam and Lisa (not pictured). Full size image (5MB)

Looking back west/upstream, we considered having the new trail come along the high ridge at the top of the picture and then cross at the new bridge. Full size image (5MB)