Hiking Trail Lift 4
This proposed project is part of the 2021 Master Development Plan and is mentioned in the draft Environmental Assessment (EA).
The general purpose and need relevant to this project is stated to be:
“The purpose of the currently proposed projects from the 2021 MDP is to expand and improve the recreational offerings within the TSV(I) SUP area, while simultaneously optimizing ski area operations and consolidating recreational use on NFS lands.” TSV(I) has specifically identified the following objective for this project:
Increase the variety of nature-based, non-Alpine skiing recreation opportunities available at TSV(I).
The description of the Hiking trail at Lift 4 states:
“A hiking trail would be constructed in the vicinity of Lift 4 that generally follows the existing Hunziker ski trail. This trail would be approximately 2 miles long and would provide users an intermediate, high alpine hiking experience with access to the amenities of the Kachina Basin base area. This trail, which would be located entirely within TSV(I)’s existing (Special Use Permit (SUP) area), would provide an additional option for hiking alongside the popular Williams Lake Trail. The intent of this trail is to relieve some pressure on the Williams Lake Trail and the adjacent Wheeler Peak Wilderness (WPW). Further, this proposed trail would complement the existing suite of summer activities at TSV, as well as those that are previously approved but not yet implemented in the Kachina area.”
While this project may be suitable for providing a hiking experience for which TSVI can attract tourists. It should not have any affect on the already existing abilities of the public to freely hike within the boundaries of the SUP or in the adjacent forest and wilderness including to William’s Lake and Wheeler Peak via the historic trails (as the bold statements indicate). Within the SUP (which is National Forest), the public should be able to hike anywhere provided it doesn’t conflict with the existing mountain bike trails or zones of operation within the SUP. That should include the proposed hiking trail designated along the Hunziker area and Lift 4, and it should remain free to the public.
The words “consolidating recreational use on public lands” is troublesome and should be explicitly investigated by the Carson National Forest. In no way should TSVI have any control or influence on the already existing access to the Forest and wilderness around the SUP area, the hiker parking lot owned by the Village of TSV, and the easements that already exist from this lot to the WL/WP historic trails (even across public lands and the SUP). The EA does not provide adequate substance on why the trail is needed and how it will relieve pressure off the Williams Lake Trail.
We feel this project and the proposed gondola project are unnecessary especially if a significant purpose (which is not determinable by the EA or the MDP) is to move people to the Lift 4 hiking trail. Because that means “more” people which is an expansion rather than an improvement of the resort.
No alternatives were given for this hiking trail project.
If this project were to be approved by the forest service, then these should be considered:
The specific location of the trail and activities required to construct the trail are not adequately described in the EA. The EA needs to better describe the need and purpose, as well as the location and construction impacts of the proposed trail.
The access to hiking the lift 4 trail (or anywhere in the SUP outside of winter operations or mountain bike areas should not be constrained or any fee required.
Analysis on impacts to Threatened/Endangered Species, and Species of Conservation Concern. Northern Goshawk, Boreal Owl, Pine Martin, Pika, and White-tailed Ptarmigan have been documented in this area. Before project approval there should be a detailed analysis of the impact of any new trail on wildlife along any proposed area.