Serving the Big Horn Basin for over 100 years
Serving the Big Horn Basin for over 100 years
Bureau of Land Management Some shade structures have been removed to be replaced with more stable structures at Castle Gardens Scenic Area west of Ten Sleep.
The Bureau of Land Management completed a condition assessment of the Castle Gardens Scenic Area west of Ten Sleep that led to the removal of some shade structures.
According to BLM Wind River/Bighorn Basin District Public Affairs Officer Sarah Beckwith the condition assessments thoroughly examined all developed site features, looking at things like maintenance, safety and vandalism concerns, as well as enhancement opportunities that the BLM could address. During the assessment, they noticed that the existing shade structures were "on a path to eventual failure from the timbers cracking and aging to unacceptable levels. Due to safety concerns, we needed to remove the shade structures."
The good news is that all shade structures are going to be replaced in the coming year with better, longer-lasting materials to provide an enhanced recreational experience for all users, Beckwith said. She said the structures will be similar to those that were installed during the upgrade to the Gooseberry Badlands Scenic Area.
Regarding any other improvements, Beckwith said "right now we're just planning for general maintenance and upkeep, and improvements such as replacing gravel and fixing broken timbers/parking bollards, just to keep the site looking nice."
At the Castle Gardens Scenic Area near Ten Sleep people can explore fabulous hoodoos and other cool formations. Primitive camping is permitted with tables, grills, fire rings and restrooms. The turnoff to Castle Gardens is approximately 2 miles west of Ten Sleep on U.S. Highway 16. A dirt road and signs lead to the site about 6 miles south of the highway.
"We thank visitors to Castle Gardens for their patience and apologize for the temporary inconvenience," Beckwith said.
