Estes Park board advances Moraine Avenue walking and biking trail

The Town of Estes Park Board approved the Moraine Avenue Trail project at its July 28 meeting, advancing plans for a walking and bicycling connection between downtown Estes Park and the Marys Lake Road area.

According to a town news release, the project would create a dedicated multi-use path through the Moraine Avenue, or U.S. 36, corridor. Town officials said the trail is meant to provide a safer and more convenient route for people walking and biking, connect residential neighborhoods, businesses and downtown, and reduce the need for pedestrians and cyclists to use roadway shoulders.

The project is in the pre-design phase. During late 2026 and throughout 2027, the town plans to develop and evaluate possible trail alignments. Community members will be able to learn about alignment options and provide feedback as the design progresses.

The design process will also explore possible connections within the broader Big Thompson River corridor. Specific details, including trail width, crossing locations, connection points and construction phasing, will be determined during design and through technical studies, agency coordination and community engagement.

Construction is anticipated to begin in 2027 and continue into 2028, pending completion of design, permitting and coordination efforts. The project has about $5.98 million in funding available, including $4.85 million in grant funding and a $1.13 million local share from Open Space funds.