Big recreation impacts likely at popular Colorado state park amid 5-year construction project

A major and critical construction project is set to have big impacts at a popular state park in Colorado through the fall.

According to Colorado Parks and Wildlife, a five-year project at Barr Lake State Park, which is located near Brighton, will mean various trail closures and recreation changes, starting this August. The work focuses on a stretch of shoreline at the park that's less than four miles in length.

Key objectives of the project involve widening and improving portions of the Lake Loop Trail, as well as implementing major essential changes to the dike to "reinforce the embankments in order to continue to be in compliance with dam safety standards."

Project construction will mostly take place Monday through Friday, with portions of Lake Loop Trail closed to all recreation during that time. The area of closure is from the boat ramp south to mile marker four. The current plan would mean reopening this area on Saturdays and Sundays.

Colorado Parks and Wildlife also addressed environmental concerns related to the project.

"While shoring up the dike is paramount to ensure human safety, CPW is closely monitoring the impact the project will have on the park’s bird population," reads a press release from Colorado Parks and Wildlife. "Heavy construction work has been scheduled to not interfere with nesting raptors. No work will happen near existing bald eagle nests."

It is, however, worth noting that cottonwood trees in a 10-foot radius from the edge of the dike's slope will be removed. This is due to how roots of these trees can serve as a conduit for water to penetrate the side of the dike, which was a risk put on display during heavy rainfall of 2023. Trees that are removed will be repurposed into habitat at the water destination.

It's also worth noting that decreased water levels have closed the boat ramp at Barr Lake through the end of the season. Hand-launched vessels are currently still allowed, though water levels are receding quickly and the distance required to carry these vessels for launch is increasing. At this time, paddleboarding remains prohibited due to a toxic algae bloom.

Additional details and ongoing updates on the construction project can be found here .

STAY INFORMED: Get free Colorado news with our daily newsletter (Click here)