AFTON, Wyo. — The Greys River Ranger District of the Bridger-Teton National Forest (BTNF) has implemented a closure for the Periodic Springs Trail in response to the mudslide at Swift Creek, the agency announced June 28.

The closure is expected to be ongoing as the Bridger-Teton National Forest works closely with the town of Afton and Lower Valley Energy to develop a long-term solution to the evolving safety concerns.

The mudslide at Swift Creek. Photo: BTNF

According to BTNF, a mudslide at Swift Creek started on June 15 and at the time it was progressing slowly. By June 23, the slide began to rapidly progress due to heavy rains and fired the stream flow over the trail. Erosion began to threaten the culinary water line for the town of Afton. The Town of Afton was able to temporarily secure the water line.

Swift Creek impacts following the mudslide. Photo: BTNF

“The slide area is still very active, and conditions are changing daily,” Justin Laycock, District Ranger of the Greys River Ranger District said. 

BTNF says the area is very unstable and ongoing work will be needed as the slide continues. The Periodic Springs Trail is closed until the slide is stabilized.

“Thank you for your patience in advance!” said Laycock. “We know that this is a popular trail and it’s been a tough spring with weather impacts to our trails and roads but please know that we are working with our staff and partners to come to a rapid and long-term solution.”

For questions or concerns about issue, please contact Justin Laycock, Greys River District Ranger at justin.laycock@usda.gov.

Lindsay is a contributing reporter covering a little bit of everything; with an interest in local policies and politics, the environment and amplifying community voices. She's curious about uncovering the "whys" of our region and aims to inform the community about the issues that matter. In her free time, you can find her snowboarding, cooking or planning the next surf trip.