Congressman Doug Lamborn’s (CO-05)  bill to legalize the popular Manitou Incline hiking trail today received a hearing in the House Subcommittee on National Parks, Forests and Public Lands. The Deputy Chief of the National Forest System testified in support of H.R. 4073.

Today's hearing was designed to hear testimony, gauge support for, and work out any issues with the legislation. Next, the bill will be heard in the full House Natural Resources Committee. The bill is expected to pass the full Committee. The bill would then go to the House Floor for a vote later this spring.

Lamborn Says Incline Bill Will Enhance Popular Trail by Improving Safety and Maintenance and by Clarifying Legal Status

To Watch Video, click here.

Excerpt from Congressman Lamborn’s remarks at the hearing:

“Although several people have informally maintained the Incline, no formal steps have been taken by any of the property owners to maintain the Incline since 1997. Legalizing access to the trail will allow the surrounding communities access to repair sections of the trail that are in poor condition and will make use safer for all hikers.”

Excerpt from testimony of Leslie A. C. Weldon, Deputy Chief, National Forest System, U.S. Forest Service:

“The Department supports H.R. 4073, which would authorize the Secretary to accept the quitclaim, disclaimer and relinquishment by the Manitou and Pikes Peak Railway Company of a right-of-way in the Pike National Forest in Colorado.  The right-of-way was originally granted for a scenic railroad for tourists, but the railway company ceased operating the tramway years ago.  Now it’s a popular route for hikers to climb Pike’s Peak, although this use is unauthorized.  The Manitou and Pikes Peak Railway Company has sought to abandon the right-of-way. Previously they issued the quitclaim, disclaimer and relinquishment but it is without effect because the Act of March 8, 1922 requires either an Act of Congress or declaration by a court of competent jurisdiction to effect an abandonment.  H.R. 4073 would remove this impediment, allowing the right-of-way to return to the National Forest System.  The Forest Service would then issue an authorization to an outside party for management as a hiking trail.”

Note:Congressman Lamborn’s bill received letters of support from the following (click on the links to read the full letter):

The Mayor and City Council of Manitou Springs

The Mayor and City Council of Colorado Springs

The General Manager of the Manitou and Pike’s Peak Railway Company

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