If you hike or bike in the West Avon Preserve, you may encounter wildfire-mitigation crews this fall. The Town of Avon says workers are removing hazardous vegetation and creating targeted fuel breaks near Wildridge. Flaggers may manage trail traffic during active work.
What work is planned in the preserve?
Avon is working with the Eagle River Fire Protection District and Eagle Valley Wildland to reduce vegetation that could help a wildfire spread toward nearby homes. The town’s project update describes removal of dead aspen in one area, light thinning of larger fuels in another, and a fuel break near developed land. Beyond that break, crews plan a lighter, patchwork treatment rather than clearing an entire hillside.
The plan changed as crews assessed the site. Avon removed one treatment area because of concerns about cheatgrass, substituted another, and added a small area to strengthen the fuel-break network. The town’s earlier 42.8-acre figure described the original 2026 plan across several Avon treatment areas; it should not be read as the acreage of the current West Avon Preserve work alone.
Will West Avon Preserve trails close?
The town has not listed a blanket closure for this mitigation project. It says residents and visitors may see equipment in the preserve, and flaggers will be stationed along trails when operations are underway. Temporary trail management may be used for safety. Follow signs and directions from crews, and do not enter an active work area.
Work can vary by day and weather. Before heading out, check the latest town project notice and the Town of Avon trail information. For a question about active operations, the town directs residents to Public Works at info@avon.org.
Why does this matter for trail users?
The preserve is used for hiking, biking and horseback riding. It is also protected by a conservation easement held by Eagle Valley Land Trust. Avon says its approach was designed with fire agencies and the land trust to reduce fire risk while protecting habitat, scenery and recreation.
Separate seasonal wildlife closures begin December 15 on some preserve trails. Avon’s trail page identifies the affected routes; check posted signs before you go. For more ideas around town, see our Avon visitor guide.
Sources checked November 2, 2026. Featured image is an AI-generated editorial illustration; it does not document a specific crew, treatment area or trail condition.
