Metolius-Windigo Trail Bridge Replacement

The Deschutes National Forest replaced a failing trail bridge on the Metolius Windigo Trail #99 near Cultus Lake through Great American Outdoors Act funding. The bridge provides critical connectivity for hikers and mountain bikers on a popular National Recreation Trail.

In addition to the bridge replacement, the Deschutes Trails Coalition Trail Crew in partnership with the Deschutes National Forest trail crew constructed the bridge approach and horse ford to ensure access for equestrian riders.

The reconstruction of the bridge protects the hydrologic function of the creek and riparian vegetation while eliminating $45,000 of deferred maintenance.

Project Benefits

• Improves Visitor Experience: This bridge provides a safe means of crossing the creek for hikers and mountain bikers. This section of trail offers the only north/south connectivity in the area and trail loop options would be greatly diminished without it.
• Economic Benefits: Cultus Lake is a highly popular destination for recreation for summer recreation opportunities, including boating, camping, fishing and hiking. The project also provided an opportunity for an Oregon-based contractor to conduct the work.
• Other Benefits: This project protects the hydrology and riparian vegetation along the stream as recreationist would otherwise seek less safe and sustainable locations to cross the creek.

Deferred Maintenance Eliminated: $45,000

Leveraging Partners

The Deschutes Trails Coalition trail crew assisted in the construction of the bridge approach and improving the horse ford.