COAL SEAM FIRE ANNIVERSARY
Glenwood Springs—15 years ago today the Coal Seam Fire erupted in South Canyon. The summer of 2002 was one of the worst wildfire seasons in state history due to severe drought, searing heat and on June 8th 2002, sustained winds of 30 to 40 miles an hour that sent flames up Red Mountain and across I-70. All told, the fire consumed over 12,000 acres and destroyed some 30 homes. Wildfire experts know full well that intense heat from another another underground seam of burning coal could once again ignite another wildfire when conditions are ripe. The lessons learned from the Coal Seam Fire have prompted state officials to embark on an investigative tour of underground fires on the Western Slope, specifically the Grand Hogback formation.
GW CANYON BIKE PATH CLOSED
Glenwood Springs—Due to high water levels, C-DOT has been forced to close the Glenwood Canyon bike path from Shoshone to the Hanging Lake rest area. Eastbound the path is still accessible for cyclists and pedestrians from Glenwood Springs to Shoshone while going west, the path is open from the Siloam Springs trailhead to the Hanging Lake rest area. Crews are closely monitoring the path to determine the need for a safety closure.
PEOPLE IGNORING HANGING LAKE BARRICADES
Glenwood Springs—The Hanging Lake Trail has become so popular people are willing and bold enough to break the law. According to the Colorado State Patrol, determined hikers and tourists are removing the barricades at the top of the off-ramp and driving into the Hanging Lake rest area expecting to hit the trail. The trail is temporarily closed for maintenance and safety work until June 10th as well as the parking lot, rest area and off-ramp. The forest service and the CSP say anyone trying to get past the barriers will be told to take a hike and may be fined.
