GLENWOOD SPRINGS — U.S. Forest Service officials frustrated by vandalism are thinking about temporarily closing Hanging Lake Trail, which leads to one of the most popular attractions in western Colorado.
a Forest Service volunteer discovered the word “Blest” on Thursday with an accompanying arrow spray-painted on rocks and trees along the trail in Glenwood Canyon.
The graffiti, along with ongoing problems that include illegal parking, swimming in Hanging Lake and bringing dogs onto the trail, is prompting the Forest Service to consider tighter restrictions.
District Ranger Aaron Mayville says the possibility of closing the area until patrols are in place starting Memorial Day weekend is on the table.
Last year, more than 137,000 people visited Hanging Lake during the summer.
