PEP seeks input on outdoor recreation development

Posted 9/3/19

The Powell Economic Partnership is looking for ways to develop outdoor opportunities in the Powell area. There are a number of options under consideration, and PEP is soliciting community input on …

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PEP seeks input on outdoor recreation development

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The Powell Economic Partnership is looking for ways to develop outdoor opportunities in the Powell area. There are a number of options under consideration, and PEP is soliciting community input on which of the ideas to pursue.

“Long-time Powell residents often have their favorite local or regional spots to get outdoors,” explained Rebekah Burns, Powell visitor center coordinator. However, she said, “new residents, college students, and visitors aren’t sure how and where to hike, bike or enjoy the river close to town.”

The goal of this initiative is to improve “front country access,” Burns said. There are a lot of outdoor recreational opportunities near Powell and close to paved roads, but they lack signage, parking lots, and defined trails, which impedes access, especially to those unfamiliar with the area.

There are five projects PEP is currently considering.

One is improved access to the McCullough Peaks via the Willwood Dam area. Burns said it is a prime location for off-road vehicles, hiking, biking and fossil hunting.

“Signage and mapping is crucial for this area to become a destination for residents and visitors,” Burns said.

Another option under consideration is Shoshone River access via Road 9 (Wyo. Highway 295 south of town). This project would improve access with river walks and developed entry and exit points.

The Polecat Bench Historic Trail — leading along Wyo. 295 north of town — is another possible option for improved access.

“Polecat Bench is an ancient riverbed and the site for many early mammal fossils. It is the site for a Native American marker, a rock arrow, that points to Yellowstone. The bench also has the rock wall remains of a stagecoach stop. Community members use this land to ride horses, mountain bikes, hiking and more,” Burns said.

Many communities, she said, create outdoor recreation trails on abandoned railroads. Powell might have a similar opportunity with its miles of irrigation canals.

“If the community wants to pursue this project, PEP will approach the irrigation districts to gauge interest,” she said.

Lastly, there is the option of a bike park in Powell. The city has deeded land just north of the Gateway West business park it can use for green space. The roughly 10.5 acres had initially been considered as the site for a “centennial park,” but the city currently has no plans for development.

PEP conducted a live poll during the Park County Fair Parade in July. Out of 304 votes cast, they found most people wanted more shopping and restaurants, but more than a quarter of respondents wanted to see more walking paths and bike trails. Job opportunities and housing options took third and fourth place, respectively.

Anyone wishing to give their input on these recreational options can call 307-754-3494, email info@powellchamber.org or stop by the Powell chamber office.

“Highlighting our frontcountry outdoor rec opportunities with signage, maps and some infrastructure will remove barriers for all people to enjoy our amazing outdoor recreation,” Burns said.

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