This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2015, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
River runners, hikers, rock art enthusiasts and anglers who enjoy Jones Hole Creek in Dinosaur National Monument got some good news this week.
The National Park Service announced that the section that has been closed since a 2013 rock slide has been reopened to the public.
That means visitors can once again access the entire length of the creek downstream from the Jones Hole National Fish Hatchery.
The 4.25-long trail starts at the Jones Hole National Fish Hatchery and ends at the Green River.
The creek provides some excellent fly fishing and is a scenic walk with views of ancient rock writings.
According to the National Park Service, a June 2013 rock slide released over 3,140 yards of rock with an estimated weight of 6,600 tons. The trail and creek were closed immediately after the rock fall occurred. The Trail reopened in August of 2013, but a small section of the creek from the boundary of Dinosaur National Monument and the fish hatchery boundary to downstream of the slide zone remained closed.
Officials said that the potential of a future rock slide remains, but the lack of activity over the last two years indicates a reduced risk to the public. A sign has been posted at the monument boundary informing visitors that they are entering a potential falling rock area and should remain alert. If people hear cracking or popping noises from the cliff face, they should leave the area immediately.
The hike is popular with Green River river guides and visitors, who often either camp where Jones Hole flows into the Green River or nearby and hike upstream.