The U.S. Forest Service has approved building a trailhead and parking area on Foothill Road for access to Faye-Luther Canyon.
The Forest Service will construct a gravel parking area that can hold 10 to 12 vehicles so hikers, equestrians and others accessing the canyon won't have to park on road shoulders and cross Foothill Road, according to Carson District Ranger Gary Schiff.
The news was welcomed by Ame Hellman, who works for The Nature Conservancy and helped shepherd the idea of a public access point in its early stages.
"This is an important project," she said. "People really enjoy that trail. I'm glad they are committed to moving forward."
Schiff said public support for the trailhead was a factor in the decision. Though neighboring landowners voiced concerns about trash, trespassing and other possible nuisances, he said the site will be "low intensity."
"It's always important to me to be a good neighbor with the adjacent land owners," said Schiff. "We will keep the parking area small and minimally developed."
That means no lights, restrooms or trash cans and bans on overnight camping and camp fires. Signs will be posted to mark private property and list advice on responsible trail use.
Schiff's decision is documented in a notice that is subject to a 45-day appeal period before construction starts. Earlier in the year, he said the project could be done by Oct. 1. Information on when the trailhead work will start and the cost of the project was not available Friday.
The decision notice and an environmental assessment on the project are available for review at the Carson Ranger District office, 1536 S. Carson St., Carson City. The documents can also be ordered by calling 882-2766.
