A pedestrian bridge that spans the St. Vrain Creek in the Dickens Farm Nature Area has been closed due to repeated jumping activity by visitors of all ages.

Jumping from the bridge is a safety issue, as water levels in the St. Vrain can fluctuate hourly, especially during spring snow melt and runoff. Rocks, boulders and other materials also can shift along the creek bottom, creating unseen hazards within the creek that could result in serious injury or even death.

Additionally, jumping from the bridge violates Longmont Municipal Code section 13.20.040, which regulates access to and general use of public lands.

This bridge is the easternmost pedestrian bridge in the newly opened nature area, located behind the Harvest Junction North shopping center, near DSW Shoes.

City Park Rangers and Public Safety staff have made multiple attempts to discourage jumping from the bridge, including posting signs, increasing staff patrols, and speaking to individuals about both the safety risks and legal violations of jumping. Now, fencing has been installed to prevent use of the bridge.

Staff will re-evaluate reopening the bridge as it becomes apparent jumping has ceased. The high-flow portion of the season—due to spring snow melt and runoff—has nearly finished, meaning the creek will return to lower water levels and jumping is likely to lose its appeal.

Visitors can still access or exit the nature area’s trail system via the western pedestrian bridge located behind Pinocchio’s restaurant.