JACKSON HOLE, WYO — Construction will begin this week on a new trail to replace the aging Sheep Gulch Boat Ramp access path. The trail leading from the Sheep Gulch Ramp area to the upper parking area will be closed until May 18.
Out of precaution, authorities are closing the trail for fear of falling rock and debris. The work making the cuts for the new trail should be finished within a week allowing the old trail to be reopened while less dangerous finishing work continues above.
The way older trail is positioned it is difficult to maintain and the ability to continue repairing it has become too costly. Forest officials made the decision last fall to replace the aging trail used by approximately 120,000 people annually as they leave the ramp and head up the steep trail that gains 400 feet to waiting outfitter buses or parking areas.
“There is a chance that we may have temporary road closures, and we will have outfitters taking their customers straight from the ramp instead of the top parking area,” said Wild & Scenic River Manager David Cernicek. “We’re excited to have a short window to build something that is easier for folks to hike up. It will have room for two-way traffic and passing, and will offer shade, benches for resting and a restroom stop.”
The trail will be one-tenth of a mile longer than the former trail. It will be paid for with Forest Service outfitter fees and donations from the eight whitewater outfitters. The Forest asks for patience from river users during construction, and adherence to signs and barriers.
Sheep Gulch Boat Ramp is situated in the Snake River Canyon of the Bridger-Teton National Forest, four miles north of Alpine, Wyoming.
Questions may be directed to David Cernicek by phone at 307-739-5417 or by email.
