Colorado Parks and Wildlife announces trail and road closures at State Forest State Park beginning this summer and lasting through late fall. Closures are in place for public safety while work on several large projects is being completed.

Beginning in early July, the American Lakes and Michigan Ditch trails will be closed through late fall for mitigation work being done in the Michigan Ditch drainage by Colorado State Forest Service and the City of Fort Collins. For those looking for similar hikes, park staff recommends Ruby Jewel or Hidden Valley trails as alternative hiking options

In addition to the American Lakes and Michigan Ditch trail closures, the Lake Agnes trailhead parking lot and road between the lower lot and trailhead will be closed to motorized vehicles while work to improve the Lake Agnes trailhead parking lot is being completed. Work is expected to begin July 8 and last through July 19. The Lake Agnes trail will remain open, however parking will be limited at the lower lot just before the winter closure gates. Hikers should be aware this will add approximately 1 mile to the .9 mile hike.

“State Forest is a popular year-round designation for day and multi-day adventures,” said Tony Johnson, Acting State Forest State Park Manager. “One of the many great things about State Forest is if one trail is closed, there are so many other options to pick from.”

For a complete list of trails at State Forest State Park, visitors are encouraged to check out the State Forest State Park Trail Map or download the COTREX app for detailed information on each route so you can find the right trail for you.