The Hawks Rest Pack Bridge Replacement Project located in Yellowstone Meadows on the Blackrock Ranger District is scheduled to resume Thursday. The existing 155-foot bridge constructed in 1959 spans the Yellowstone River providing access to remote backcountry in the Teton Wilderness and the neighboring areas of Yellowstone National Park and the Washakie Wilderness on the Shoshone National Forest. After being evaluated by US Forest Service engineers in 2016, it was determined the bridge is in critical need of replacement. Further evaluation in 2019 showed additional cracking and deterioration of support piers and abutments. The Regional Forester has approved a motorized and mechanized Wilderness Exception for portions of the project, including use of a Type 1 helicopter, the largest type of helicopter the Forest Service typically uses for firefighting, and other motorized and mechanized tools. These are necessary for installing the large bridge components and for removing large existing components such as steel girders. All elements of the project that can be accomplished with primitive tools and pack stock will be completed in this manner. Due to seasonal weather conditions, the project is slated to conclude by mid-October.
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