January 2003

Wolf Creek Pass Update

By Kim Hedberg

In an effort to provide quality recreation experiences for all at Wolf Creek Pass, a group of 17 people including representatives from the Forest Service (both San Juan and Rio Grande), the BSA, the Colorado Snowmobile Association, the Colorado Department of Transportation, Colorado State Parks, outfitters and guides, the Grey Wolves, and local skiers, snowmobilers, and hybrids, met to discuss the issues during the past year (2002).

The human-powered members of the task force wanted one area of the pass free of snowmobiles. Because the North side of the pass has limited access for snowmobiles due to nearby wilderness and tight trees, this area was requested. After many discussions, the snowmobilers thought that this was not a big deal to give up and agreed to it. However, the hybrid users (those that use a snowmobile to tow skiers and snowboarders) wanted access to this area so that they could have an area they could access in 20 minutes. When alternatives were suggested on the south side of the pass (near Treasure Mountain), they claimed the 45-minute trip into that area was too long and they wanted continued access to the Lobo bowls and Suicide bowl.

Based on these meetings, it was determined that data were needed to determine who is using the area and whether there is significant conflict between motorized and non-motorized users. Surveys are currently being taken to determine what the major use of the area is and whether significant conflict exists that might warrant any changes to the winter use of the area.

One suggested change was made: snowmobiles are being asked to remain on the Lobo Road on the North side of the pass. It is suggested that no travel is allowed in the bowls or off the road by snowmobiles.

New guidelines and maps are posted on top of Wolf Creek Pass and include for the North side:

  1. Snowmobilers please use the east section of the parking area and keep snowmobiles on the designated route (Lobo road).
  2. No motorized traffic in the area near the parking lot (designated on map).
  3. This side recommended for sledding.

South side:

  1. This side recommended for off-trail snowmobiling.
  2. Observe slow zone within sight of parking area.
  3. No motorized traffic in the Rock Garden area (designated on map).

In addition, the task force is asking everyone to practice trail etiquette.

  1. Skiers and snowshoers yield to snowmobilers.
  2. Snowmobilers slow down for skiers and snowshoers.

All the notes from the task force meetings may be viewed at the following website: http://www.fs.fed.us/r2/riogrande/visitor/wcpwrtf/wcpwrtf.htm

If you have direct experiences at the pass, please fill out a "BERD", and the BSA will deliver these to the appropriate Forest Service Officer.