CENTRAL COLORADO HAS BECOME a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts and is known for being welcoming and accommodating — a necessity of embracing a tourist economy. The Upper Arkansas Valley has a reputation for being home to some of the most beautiful, unsullied landscapes in the state. Arriving at trailheads, visitors and locals tuck their vehicles into parking spots, don hiking or biking gear or unload horses, dirt bikes and ATVs to experience the Heart of the Rockies. As these recreators begin their salutations to nature, many have no concept of what happens behind the scenes to keep the trails passable…
