Mitigation work is underway in South Canyon to address hazards from an underground coal seam fire on city-owned property, the city of Glenwood Springs announced in a press release this week.

The Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining and Safety began work Monday in response to two hot spots on the west side of the canyon that have recently recorded surface temperatures between 600 and 900 degrees. Both sites are within 50 feet of vegetation and pose an elevated wildfire risk, especially following a dry winter and spring.

To reduce the threat, the state agency is excavating the hot spots to depths of up to 30 feet. Excavated material is being blended with non-coal earthen fill and used to backfill the area. Crews are also removing vegetation across about 3 acres through mechanical methods and herbicide, with pre-emergent herbicide applied within a 200-foot radius to reduce future growth.

For public safety, the city has temporarily closed the upper portions of the Tramway and Lightning Bug trails during work hours, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Intermittent closures during work hours can be expected from June 8 to July 1.

Trails will remain open on weekends and between project phases. If delays occur, all work will pause July 2–6 to accommodate increased recreational use during the Independence Day holiday.

Trail users are asked to follow posted signage and detour along South Canyon Road to the Coal Camp Trail during closures.

For updates, visit glenwoodrec.com/320.