Why aren’t some trail sections managed like others?

​Allow us to set the scene: you’re travelling along the River Trail and notice how well-manicured the trail is. The brush is minimal, and the tall grasses are trimmed back as to not impede your enjoyment. You travel a little farther along the trail and notice it becomes a little more untamed. Now, the brush is tall and full, foliage is dense, and some dead trees have yet to be cut down. You’re thinking the trail needs some love in this section, but what you may not know is there’s a rhyme and reason for the various states of our trail system. 

The mission of the Platte River Trails Trust is to develop a river pathway, while preserving the scenic, natural and historic value of the North Platte River, and to assist with the development of a network of trails that contribute to our community’s non-motorized transportation options, economic vitality and quality of life. While we are deeply dedicated to expanding the river pathway as a transportation and recreation corridor and assisting in the development of a community trail network, we cannot neglect the part of our mission to “preserve the scenic, natural and historic value of the North Platte River” as we build and maintain these beloved trails. 

When it comes to maintaining the trails, there’s a necessary balance between keeping trails natural, and keeping them manicured. Every inch of the trails is strategically “managed,” however this management looks different depending on the location and environment of each trail section. To maintain this balance, it takes careful planning and detailed strategy in collaboration with the City of Casper Parks and Recreation, the City of Mills, and the Platte River Revival Project. 

What do we mean by natural trails? Some sections of trail must remain relatively untouched. By this, we mean our efforts are focused on preserving the natural habitat in the area. Whether this means leaving bushes untrimmed to protect the homes of wildlife, or allowing foliage to go unchecked in the Murie Audubon bird conservation area, or leaving dead trees in wetland areas to allow for natural decomposition and to act as a riparian buffer against erosion. We also consider efficient water drainage, which requires some terrain and foliage to be left untouched. But rest assured, we remove overgrowth that is dangerous and trees that are obtrusive.

Contrarily, several portions of the trails are well groomed and managed to allow wide open access and keep encroaching vegetation at bay. In some areas, you might notice trail preservation and management such as wrapped trees to prevent beaver damage, newly planted trees for the long-term future of the trail, and landscaping to add beauty. Again, all of these efforts are carefully planned and coordinated with our partners.

Despite leaving some trail sections natural and untouched, we ensure our trail system remains safe for all types of trail users. This means continued paving projects, a significant amount of snow removal in the winter, and eliminating dangerous obstructions from the trails. As part of our mission to preserve the open spaces around the trails and the North Patte River, large portions of the trails are intentionally designed to allow users to feel they’re traveling in the natural space we are lucky to live and work near. We are grateful to have partners, like the City of Casper, who know the impact the trails have on our community’s quality of life and help us keep them maintained. 

So, next time you’re traveling by trail, take a moment to notice the difference in your surroundings and always feel free to reach out to PRTT if there’s a section that needs our attention. Stay up to date on trail maintenance and projects by following Platte River Trails on Facebook and Instagram and subscribing to our newsletter. 

---