Forest Service to Restore 180-Mile Trail Network in Wyoming Range

The US Forest Service is embarking on a project to rehabilitate a neglected 180-mile trail network in the southern Wyoming Range, a relatively remote yet stunning part of the state, Wyo File reports.

Stretching between Jackson and Kemmerer, the Wyoming Range has long been overshadowed by more popular areas like the Tetons and Wind River Range. However, a new initiative aims to revitalize access to this scenic region by improving its deteriorated trail system.

The trails, particularly in the Commissary Ridge area, have seen minimal maintenance for over 20 years due to budget and staffing constraints. Erosion, overgrowth, and fallen trees have made the network difficult to navigate, hampering access for hunters, hikers, and other outdoor enthusiasts. Bridger-Teton National Forest Kemmerer District Ranger Adam Calkins acknowledged the area’s beauty but noted its remoteness has contributed to its underuse.

This project, in collaboration with nonprofits and local governments, will address issues such as trailhead parking improvements, clearing dead trees, and improving signage. The Forest Service is actively seeking public input through surveys and a public meeting scheduled for November 19 in Kemmerer, to help prioritize which trails to restore first.

While hunting is a key activity in the region, the restored trails are expected to attract more backpackers, hikers, and anglers. The Wyoming Range is home to excellent elk and mule deer habitat, and there is potential for expanding recreational opportunities like mountain biking and fishing. The Forest Service has partnered with several organizations, including Wyoming Pathways and Friends of the Bridger-Teton, to support the project, which is expected to be completed within three to five years.

Wyoming Pathways Executive Director Mike Kusiek expressed excitement about the project, noting the unique beauty of the Wyoming Range and its potential to draw more outdoor visitors. With the state embracing outdoor recreation initiatives, the project is seen as a way to distribute visitors to less-frequented areas, providing economic benefits to nearby communities like Kemmerer.

Local residents and officials are enthusiastic about the initiative, recognizing the positive impact it could have on both recreation and the local economy. Despite challenges like reduced federal funding for seasonal workers, Calkins is optimistic that the project will move forward as planned, ensuring that the Wyoming Range’s hidden gems become more accessible for years to come.