The Conservation Fund Secures Land on Mount Bross to Benefit Public Access and Alpine Ecosystems

PARK COUNTY, Colo. — In a major win for conservation and public access, The Conservation Fund has protected more than 480 acres of critical land on Mount Bross — one of Colorado’s iconic 14ers, or 14,000-foot peaks. The acquisition marks a significant step toward securing long-term public access, safeguarding fragile alpine ecosystems, and preserving the sweeping viewsheds that define Colorado’s high country.

The newly conserved property ensures public hiking access on a section of the popular nearly eight-mile DeCaLiBron Loop Trail, named for the four peaks it traverses: Democrat, Cameron, Lincoln and Bross. The loop is one of Colorado’s most treasured alpine hikes, offering access to four distinct 14,000-foot peaks in a single route. With this addition, The Conservation Fund advances its multiyear initiative to protect Colorado’s 14ers — building on its 2023 purchase of Mount Democrat, now protected by the U.S. Forest Service.

“This project is a win for outdoor enthusiasts, for conservation, and for the future of Colorado’s mountain heritage,” said Kelly Ingebritson, senior field representative at The Conservation Fund. “By protecting this land, we’re not only ensuring trail access to a beloved 14er, but also preserving the breathtaking views and ecological value of one of the state’s most treasured forests and landscapes.”

The 480 acres will be added to the Pike-San Isabel National Forest, expanding the protected alpine forest viewshed by an area nearly one and a half times the size of Denver’s City Park. The land also helps protect the headwaters of the South Platte River — a vital source of drinking water, agricultural irrigation, and a healthy downstream environment.

Without protection, the property was at risk of development that could have limited public access and fragmented a scenic landscape. Securing the land is a step forward after decades of complex land ownership and trail closures that have challenged land managers and impacted local communities that rely on outdoor recreation for economic stability.

The project was made possible through a partnership with the U.S. Forest Service, Park County, the Colorado Fourteeners Initiative, Mosquito Range Heritage Initiative, and a local landowner, Earth Energy Resources, LLC. The property is expected to transfer to public ownership within the year.

Leaders from partner organizations emphasized the project’s significance:

“Colorado’s 14ers drew 265,000 hikers last year, including almost 20,000 to the Decalibron Loop, one of the most popular mountain hiking routes in the state. This acquisition preserves a key parcel along the loop trail, which will help with ongoing trail access and sustainability. The acquisition also protects other important lands on the flanks of Mount Bross that will preserve alpine tundra ecosystems.” – Lloyd Athearn, executive director, Colorado Fourteeners Initiative

“This project helps protect the Mosquito Range’s exceptional alpine biodiversity and the headwaters that sustain life far beyond the mountains. Safeguarding this landscape supports healthy ecosystems and the communities downstream that depend on the region’s responsible recreation and stewardship.” – Cara Doyle, executive director, Mosquito Range Heritage Initiative

“For the citizens of Park County, the Land & Water Trust Fund grant awarded to Mosquito Range Heritage Initiative for conservation has provided the base for expanding public access, protecting water resources, and strengthening our outdoor recreation economy. We’re proud of the work they are doing, and support this partnership that balances conservation with economic and community benefit — a win-win for all involved.” – Lucas Meyer, Park County manager

While this acquisition marks a significant step toward long-term access and conservation on Mount Bross, some private land remains on the mountain. As a result, legal access to the summit is not permitted, and work continues to protect remaining inholdings in collaboration with landowners and partners.

About The Conservation Fund
The Conservation Fund protects the land that sustains us all. We are in the business of conservation, creating innovative solutions that drive nature-based action in all 50 states for climate protection, vibrant communities and sustainable economies. We apply effective strategies, efficient financing approaches and enduring government, community and private partnerships to protect millions of acres of America’s natural land, cultural sites, recreation areas and working forests and farms. To learn more, visit www.conservationfund.org.

Contact
Media Contact: media@conservationfund.org