Trail work around Loyds Lake nears completion

A $1.15-million project to enhance recreation opportunities around Loyds Lake is in its final stages. The project, funded in large part by an outdoor recreation grant from the State of Utah, provides a major face lift to the walking trails around the reservoir, which is located just west of Monticello.
Sonderegger Inc and Jones & DeMille Engineering completed work on the project. The paths were not accessible to the general public through most of the summer and early fall.
Monticello City Manager Kaeden Kulow reports that expenses were lower than anticipated and the savings may free up funds for some additional work.
“This grant allows us to do the needed repairs all at once rather than piece-by-piece over an extended period,” said Kulow, who added that the combined project also allowed the work to be completed at a lower cost.
It has been nearly 40 years since Loyds Lake was constructed and the initial walking trails were completed.
Work on the 2.3-mile walking trail around the reservoir is a major portion of the recent project. Three new bridges were erected on the pathway, crossing Pole Creek, South Creek and Shingle Mill Creek.
In addition, a number of culverts were replaced or added to help improve the drainage along the path, along with loose stone “riprap” in areas to mitigate erosion.
Finally, the path was repaved with a CTB cement-treated base. Kulow reports that repaving with CTB is less expensive than asphalt.
Other aspects of the project include a new unloading ramp for non-motorized watercraft.
The walking path through the picnic area on the north side of the reservoir was also paved.
In addition, access to the lake was greatly enhanced with significant dirt work in the parking areas and the entry ways leading to the parking areas.
Since the pathway was reopened in recent days, a large number of residents and visitors have enjoyed the trail.
Finish work is ongoing for the project, with the additional projects pending budgetary approval.
The new trail around Loyds Lake compliments a new trail around the Blanding Second Reservoir and a new walking trail along the San Juan River in Bluff.