Hikers celebrate 50th anniversary of National Trails System
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CODY, Wyo. – Community members and Bureau of Land Management staff recently enjoyed a National Trails Day hike on the Four Bear Trail in the North Fork of the Shoshone River corridor. The goal of the hike was to promote shared conservation stewardship by enhancing the trail while celebrating the 50th anniversary of the National Trails System Act.
“The hike and volunteer work were a great way for community members to experience a trail in their own backyard in honor of the 50th anniversary of our National Trails System,” said Rick Tryder, BLM outdoor recreation planner in the Cody Field Office. “Thank you to our fabulous volunteers for making the day a huge success!”
The day kicked-off with trailhead improvements. Participants anchored a new, accessible picnic table in place and installed two new signs at the trailhead.
After a quick break, the group headed-out for a leisurely hike on Four Bear Trail. Along the way, hikers participated in a National Trails Day photo challenge and scavenger hunt. BLM staff described the area’s geologic past as the group admired the volcanic spires, turrets and banded rock formations along the way.
Despite the name of the trail, no bears were seen but wildlife encounters included many species of birds, a rattlesnake and a few elk. In addition, many smiles and laughs were shared over the course of the day.
The Four Bear Trail, located 17 miles west of Cody, provides opportunities for horseback riding, hiking and limited mountain biking. Facilities at the trailhead include an information kiosk, horse trailer parking, horse hitching rails, restroom and a picnic table. The trail provides access to Four Bear Mountain, climbing north approximately 4 miles to the Shoshone National Forest boundary where it connects to many trails on the forest. The elevation ranges from 5,600–7,600 feet.
For more information about BLM-managed trails in the Cody area, visit Recreation.gov or call the Cody Field Office at 307-579-5900.
The BLM manages more than 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.