Will Echo Lake Lodge be open in 2023, and will I still be able to visit in the future?
Echo Lake Lodge will have limited visitor services during the interim operations period from 2023-2025, some of which may be temporarily relocated to the parking lot to accommodate preservation and construction efforts.
Why is Denver Parks and Recreation making this change now?
The need to conduct repairs and re-imagine the use of Echo Lake Lodge was identified 14 years ago in the 2008 Denver Mountain Parks Master Plan, which calls for the following efforts:
- Rehabilitate Echo Lake Lodge to protect its architectural historical character, upgrade its appearance, and better accommodate its visitors.
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Study the feasibility of a new recreation role for the Lodge, including winterization for expanded seasons, overnight accommodations, etc.
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Undertake a comprehensive rehabilitation of the exterior setting of the Echo Lake Lodge including its connection to Echo Lake.
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Rehabilitate Echo Lake Lodge highlighting its historical and architectural significance.
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Create a stronger marketing program.
DPR carried out an exterior rehabilitation project in 2012 with the support of a Colorado State Historical Fund grant. Significant additional work is still required to meet the goals specified in the 2008 master plan.
The existing concession contract expires at the end of 2022 and DPR will use the following three years to implement critical preservation and planning efforts. DPR will providing limited visitor services for the interim operations period from 2023-2025 to accommodate necessary preservation and assessment work identified above, as well as accessibility and mechanical system upgrades, with a goal of fully re-opening for the building’s centennial anniversary in 2026.
Why are the bathrooms closed?
Increased use and visitation at Echo Lake Lodge, combined with outdated plumbing systems, overwhelmed the septic system and caused it to fail. DPR is currently working with engineers to increase septic capacity and repair the system. The interior bathrooms will remain closed to the public until necessary repairs can be made to the septic system. Portable toilets will be available in the parking lot until repairs are complete.
Has Denver Parks and Recreation contracted with or chosen another concession operator to run the lodge?
DPR has not contracted with another concessionaire to provide the same services that have been available at the lodge. In October 2022, DPR published a request for proposals for a food truck to provide food and beverage services to the public and reduce pressure on the septic system. All qualified vendors are eligible to submit proposals.
Will future concession contracts be available?
DPR anticipates that additional contract opportunities will likely be available in the future. DPR will follow the city’s established procurement process for competitive selection if the department determines that additional services are needed at Echo Lake Lodge.
Why can’t Echo Lake Lodge continue to operate as it always has during long-term planning?
The existing concession contract expires at the end of 2022, and the lodge and adjacent site need improvements to meet current park needs. There is a narrow construction window at such high elevation which will result in significant impacts to operations within the building. Architects and engineers will need unrestricted access to evaluate and access the building and its mechanical systems. Contractors must also be able to work on the building (the plumbing system in particular) without risk of freezing. DPR’s desire to re-open the lodge in 2026 and the concession contract that expires at the end of 2022 would not provide for this flexibility and would unreasonably impact operations and the assessment and improvement schedule.
How will Echo Lake Lodge be used after the interim operations period?
DPR will use the interim operations period from 2023-2025 to undertake a planning process to determine the best and most sustainable combination of long-term uses for Echo Lake Lodge. Long-term plans will be shaped by the limitations of the building (including the septic system) and may include some combination of mission-based visitor center, education and research facility, outdoor recreation hub, event space, or similar public park purpose. Continued food and beverage service and retail have not been ruled out, and the planning process will determine a reasonable and sustainable scale for such services.
Will Echo Lake Lodge be included in planning efforts for Echo Lake Park?
Yes. Echo Lake Lodge is a key feature within the park. Future planning efforts that stem from the Outdoor Adventure and Alternative Sports Master Plan and the 2008 Denver Mountain Parks Master Plan will consider how Echo Lake Lodge can support meaningful and sustainable year-round recreation.