Castlewood Canyon State Park visitors can expect some disruptions in the coming month. A road construction project, beginning April 7 and stretching through May 7, has kicked off on the east side of the park, primarily on weekdays from 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. The aim is to minimize the impact of heavy weekend traffic. The Colorado Parks and Wildlife has noted that the construction will not affect the west side of the park. However, those seeking to enjoy the eastern treasures of Castlewood Canyon will have to navigate around the east entrance road off Highway 83 and several nearby parking lots, including those at the Visitor Center, Canyon Point, Juniper Rock, and the Bridge Canyon Overlook.
The necessity of the project comes from the undeniable need to repair the deteriorated road surfaces and to repave the lot areas. As reported by Colorado Parks and Wildlife, the state agency has contracted Asphalt Specialties to handle the concrete milling, paving, and striping. It's also being arranged for traffic management to swiftly direct visitors to available parking spaces during the intermittent closures.
Despite potential inconveniences, park enthusiasts can breathe a sigh of relief knowing that the trails will remain open. If their preferred trailhead's parking is inaccessible, visitors can still to use connecting trails. During the paving phase, a one-day complete closure of the east side is expected, with the date to be announced on the park’s website and Facebook page.
Environmental concerns appear to have been taken into consideration, as Colorado Parks and Wildlife does not anticipate wildlife disruptions due to construction activities. They confirmed that no golden eagles or other sensitive raptor species currently nest close enough to the park to be affected. As a reminder for those planning a visit, entry passes are available. Residents can obtain a $29 Keep Colorado Wild annual park pass, while a $10 daily pass can also be purchased by any visitor desiring to explore Castlewood Canyon.
