PUEBLO, Colo., Feb 5, 2021 – The Pike and San Isabel National Forests Cimarron and Comanche National Grasslands and the Broadmoor Hotel completed a land exchange in El Paso and Teller Counties February 5, 2021 under the authorization provided in the John D. Dingell, Jr. Conservation, Management, and Recreation Act of 2019 (Section 1001; Public Law 116-9; March 12, 2019).

The U.S. Forest Service received ownership of 320-acres along the northwestern flank of Pikes Peak known as the Crags Parcel. This is the land located near the popular Crags Campground and will complement U.S. Forest Service management of this area for wildlife values, public recreational opportunities, and the adjacent Pikes Peak West Roadless Area.

“We appreciate the effort that has gone into facilitating this exchange and ensuring public access is maintained through a permanent easement to areas near the very popular trail system along the Barr Trail on the Manitou Incline to the top of Pikes Peak,” said Diana Trujillo, Forest and Grassland Supervisor.

In exchange for the 320-acres, the Broadmoor Hotel acquired ownership of the Emerald Valley Ranch, an 83-acre parcel which they have operated as a resort under a Forest Service special permit since 1892. The parcel contains nine cabins, a lodge, and other facilities and amenities west of Colorado Springs. As part of the exchange, the Broadmoor Hotel will document the history of the ranch and maintain a permanent easement along Forest Service Road 371 to provide access for guests and ongoing maintenance and operation of the resort.

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