The bristlecone pine trail, a 0.6 mile round-trip hike to a scenic overlook of the Virgin River Valley, received some much needed repair over the summer to make it safer and easier to access.
The trailhead is located at a pullout along Highway 14 just after passing a sign indicating the summit about 17 miles east of town. An informational Forest Service sign is visible upon approach on the south side of the road.
The ramp has a splendid panorama surrounded by ancient bristlecone pines dating as old as 3,400 years. From the overlook, one can see nearly the entire Virgin River Valley and a glimpse of the Zion Narrows.
Erosion from the hill along which the trail curved to the deck overlook caused the ramp to partially collapse, creating a safety hazard and problems with hikers leaving the trail and diverting through a restoration area.
Under the mentorship of the U.S. Forest Service, the project was one of many completed by the Intergovernmental Internship Cooperative, or IIC, hosted by SUU. 
The two-week project involved repairing trail features for increased sustainability and removing the old ramp and forming braces that allowed for retaining and compacting dirt for a sturdier foundation.
Boards that were in good condition were recycled back into the ramp during rebuild and it was shortened 5 feet from its original length of 30 feet.
Story and Photos by: Reyce Knutson
outdoors@suunew.net