An agreement has been reached to keep a popular trail open in the Hunter Creek Valley, resolving a years-long legal dispute.
The Verena Mallory trail is a singletrack alternative to the rocky Hunter Creek road for hikers, runners and bikers.
Aspen’s Open Space director Austin Weiss said the trail fits into the larger vision for recreation in the Hunter Creek Valley.
“The Verena Mallory Trail really is an important connection for all users,” he said.
But the trail is on property that was gifted to the Aspen Valley Land Trust (AVLT). In 2014, AVLT found language in the original deed that they say prohibits any trail on the property. A group called Friends of Verena Mallory filed a lawsuit, hoping to preserve the route.
Now, there’s a proposed settlement that would essentially grandfather in the trail, with the City of Aspen and Pitkin County maintaining it. AVLT will continue to own the property.
Aspen City Council considers the proposal at its meeting Monday; Pitkin County Commissioners take up the issue on Wednesday.
