Rotarians recently partnered with Friends of The Dillon Ranger District (FDRD) to restore the damaged fencing at the top of Loveland Pass. This heavily trafficked and popular tourist spot is remarkable for its scenic beauty. It's also popular as the trail head for the West Ridge Trail leading to the summit of the 12, 479’ mountain locally know as Rotary Peak. The old fencing helped to keep visitors on the established paths and off sensitive terrain, but had deteriorated to such a degree that Rotarians determined something needed to be done. It was an embarrassment to have visitors from around the world see the broken-down condition of the approach to one of our state's significant scenic wonders – the Continental Divide at 11,990'.
Joining with the FDRD, members of the Summit County and Littleton Rotary clubs worked together in restoring all the damaged buck-and-rail sections, and adding several new sections. Materials were secured and the project was directed by the FDRD Project Manager Doozie Martin. Public service trail maps and guides produced by Rotary Club donations here happily received by visitors and hikers. Those who successfully made the 1.5 mile hike to Rotary Peak were presented with a commemorative “I Climbed Rotary Peak” pin as evidence of their accomplishment.
Rotary once again proves that it has the means and ability to work together addressing needs at home and around the world. Future projects on the trails at Loveland Pass and on Rotary Peak are in the process of being evaluated.