Trail Closure in Rocky Mountain National Park-Trail Has Re-opened

Date: June 20, 2007
Contact: Kyle Patterson, 970-586-1363

Trail re-opened Saturday, June 23.
After additional snowmelt, park staff were able to slide a large boulder down the slope to where it ended up resting securely on the side of the trail. It appears to be stable at this point.

Due to hazardous rock fall, the trail from Chasm Junction to Chasm Meadows, near Chasm Lake, in the Longs Peak area of Rocky Mountain National Park, was closed today, June 20. Current conditions of warm temperatures and rapid snowmelt are causing increased rock fall activity. This closure will remain in effect until further notice.

Large boulders have been dislodged above the trail. One boulder, the size of a compact automobile, is just above the trail apparently being supported by snow. Other large boulders are breaking off in pieces and tumbling down. With the current and forecasted temperatures, the rock fall will likely continue.

Visitors are reminded, particularly at this time of year, of the hazards related to increasing snowmelt, such as rock fall and swift, dangerous water in rivers and streams. For more information about Rocky Mountain National Park, including current road and trail conditions, please call [phone].