History
Nestled within the picturesque landscape of the Wood River Valley, Colorado Gulch Preserve boasts a rich history deeply intertwined with the region's pioneer roots. Once a part of the Justice Dairy, this land bears witness to the toil and dedication of founding pioneer families who cherished it for generations. The Hop House, now a charming remnant of the dairy, stands as a testament to a bygone era.
Throughout its history, Colorado Gulch Preserve has been the subject of captivating stories and pivotal moments. Previous owners once considered subdividing this hallowed ground, sparking a movement to preserve its natural beauty and heritage. Leading the charge of conservation was the Wood River Land Trust.
Thanks to the support of our community, what originally started as a small conservation easement has now become one of the most celebrated protected areas along the Big Wood River, and serves as one of the most important components of the Hailey Greenway. In 2018, the Colorado Gulch Preserve was expanded by nine acres thanks to the generosity of a silent donor and big fan of the Land Trust. This preserve is well-regarded as a community treasure, and rightfully so. With a multi-use trail system, protected river corridor, habitat for wildlife, and multiple ongoing restoration projects, this area has plenty to offer everyone in the Valley.
Today, Colorado Gulch Preserve stands as a great example of a successful city partnership. Thanks to the commitment of the Wood River Land Trust and the unwavering dedication of local residents, this slice of history remains an oasis of natural beauty, accessible to all who wish to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of the Wood River Valley's past and present.
Partners: Landowners, Dr. Grant & Sheri Stevens
Accessibility:
Wood River Land Trust endeavors to create Universal Access trails throughout all public access preserves. Universal Access is defined as a stone aggregate trail that complies with the Outdoor Guidelines:
- Tread Surface: Clear, firm and stable with a minimum width of 36”
- Tread Obstacles: 2” high maximum
- Cross Slope: 5% maximum
- Running Grade must meet one or more of the following:
- 5% or less for any distance
- Up to 8.33% for 200’ maximum
- Up to 10% for 30’ maximum
- Up to 12.5% for 10’ maximum
- For all running grades above 5%, a resting interval must be provided at both ends of the grade. Resting intervals and passing spaces may overlap
- No more than 30% of the total trail length may exceed a running grade of 8.33%
- Passing Spaces: 60” width, provided at least every 1000’ where trail width is less than 60” wide, with a maximum 5% cross slope
- Signage must provide the following:
- Length of the trail or trail segment
- Surface type
- Typical and minimum tread width
- Typical and maximum running grade
- Typical and maximum cross slope
At Colorado Gulch Preserve, the trails will be universal access by mid-October 2023. Progress is also being made on ADA parking, the current parking lot is currently flat, crushed rock.Note: While Wood River Land Trust endeavors to upgrade the majority of existing trails to Universal Access status, not every trail is able to be converted because they are in the floodplain and if they were upgraded to Universal Access status, angular rock would be washed into the river during Spring flooding every year which is not ideal for the health of the river.
