Pikes Peak Tornado Cleanup
Location
Pikes Peak, Colorado
Size
255 acres
Land Ownership
Pikes National Forest
Partners
Pike National Forest, Colorado Springs Utilities, Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain
Project Overview
On July 20, 2023, an EF1 tornado with winds exceeding 110 mph touched down on the northern slopes of Pikes Peak, carving a 2.18-mile path of destruction between mile markers 5 and 8 along the Pikes Peak Highway. While no injuries occurred, the storm caused extensive blowdown and damage to forested areas in this highly visible and ecologically sensitive part of the mountain.
In response, the Forest Service launched the Pikes Peak Tornado Restoration Project through a Stewardship Agreement with Stewardship West. The project aims to remove fallen and damaged trees and conduct follow-up mastication and thinning treatments to restore the landscape and reduce wildfire risk.
This restoration effort builds on pre-existing fuels reduction plans for the area and contributes directly to the goals of the national Wildfire Crisis Strategy. Beyond cleanup, the project supports long-term forest recovery by reducing erosion, improving wildlife habitat, and increasing forest resiliency on one of Colorado’s most iconic landscapes.
Our Role
Stewardship West is leading on-the-ground efforts to remove tornado-damaged trees and complete forest restoration treatments across approximately 255 acres of National Forest System land. In addition to salvage operations, our team is conducting mechanical thinning to address hazardous fuels and restore healthy stand structure.
We are working closely with Pike National Forest, Colorado Springs Utilities, and Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain to ensure safe, efficient operations that protect public access and align with shared stewardship goals. The project not only addresses immediate storm damage, but also lays the groundwork for a healthier, more resilient forest in the years to come.
