The Crossroads Trail constructed connects existing trails on both sides of Highway 24 as part of the Governor’s “16 in 2016” Initiative to connect communities across Colorado. This trail, in particular, will help connect trails from Copper Mountain to Salida! Volunteers on this project helped connect communities while helping accessible recreation opportunities
Where
The Crossroads Trail in the Hayden Meadows Recreation Area is a perfect destination to experience summer in Colorado. Located in the headwaters of the Upper Arkansas River Valley, the area sits in the shadow of Colorado’s two highest peaks and includes access to a seven-acre fishing lake, more than five miles of Gold Medal fisheries on the Arkansas River, and over 10 miles of hiking and interpretive trails within the Lake County Open Space Park. In addition, it is a designated interpretive site along the Top of the Rockies National Scenic and Historic Byway. This stunning area supports over 270 species of resident and migratory mammals, birds, reptiles, fish, and amphibians.
What
We worked a summer weekend in scenic Lake County and helped complete the final phase of construction on the multi-use Crossroads Trail. Approximately 50 volunteers helped build an ADA-accessible walkway and railing. Volunteers used carpentry skills to build railing and lent a hand by laying material to complete the walkway surface. All skill levels were welcome and participated and experienced Crew Leaders taught everything volunteers needed to know.
Campsites was provided at the beautiful Leadville Fish Hatchery, just ten minutes from the center of Leadville. Breakfast and dinner were provided by VOC’s wonderful volunteer Crew Chefs.
Completed Work
My crew was responsible for building the water structure at the start of the trail along with a retaining wall for the bridge in addition to improvements to the trail. We were able to complete the targets we had set, and the structures we built were solid. Other crews constructed the box structures used to support the trail crossing under the highway. All volunteers did outstanding work, and the quality of the final product really shows.
