Hikers and bikers beware: Popular trails on the western side of Staunton State Park near Pine, will be closed Monday through Friday due to a dam rehabilitation project at Elk Falls Pond, Colorado Parks and Wildlife announced Wednesday.

The closures will begin Aug. 4 and remain in place for the remainder of the project, expected to end by Oct. 31.

The affected trails are:

• West Meadow
• Lions Back
• Chimney Rock
• Elk Falls
• Lions Head Loop
• Elk Falls Overlook

According to CPW, due to poor soil conditions at the project site and its remote location, heavy equipment must operate on the administrative road through Staunton, hence the trail closure notice.

“Park visitors are highly encouraged to use trails instead of the administrative roadway in order to allow construction vehicles uninterrupted access to the work site,” CPW said. “Trail access along Bugling Elk to Marmot Passage will remain open. Staunton will also experience increased dump truck and concrete truck traffic during this time.”

According to CPW, the ongoing rehabilitation project will replace the 100-year-old dam at Elk Creek Reservoir.

The work began in June and is addressing several safety deficiencies, which increase risk for long-term water storage.

“Once complete, the dam will comply with safety regulatory requirements and maintain the backcountry aesthetic at Staunton by using native vegetation, rocks and other earthen materials found in the park,” according to CPW.