The Shoshone National Forest has completed its first project utilizing Great American Outdoors Act funds. Shoshone personnel removed an existing bridge — which has been unserviceable for over 15 years — and installed a new one on a popular trail near Brooks Lake outside of Dubois.

The bridge is located on the Yellowstone Trail, which leads to popular spots for fishing, hiking and horseback riding. Forest Service engineers and hydrologists chose a new location for the bridge and restored the stream, which had been adversely impacted by the old structure.

New timber and foundation materials, as well as reclaimed road bridge materials, were transported to the site and a team of four Forest Service recreation trail technicians constructed the bridge over the course of six days.

Shoshone Supervisor Lisa Timchak said she was “very pleased to see much needed trail work being completed” thanks to the new funding.

“The replacement of this old bridge is a prime example of how we are utilizing Great American Outdoors Act funds to improve public access and expand recreation opportunities while reducing safety concerns on the Shoshone National Forest,” she said.

The project was also made possible by collaboration with the Greater Yellowstone Coordinating Committee, Wyoming State Trails and Brooks Lake Lodge.