Pocatello Closes Kirkham AMI Trail for Paving
Officials are repaving the parking lot and a one-mile trail section to repair damage.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Hiking
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Pocatello has closed the Kirkham AMI Trail and its associated parking lot to begin a repaving project. The closure impacts a one-mile stretch of the popular pathway located near Upper Ross Park.
Why it matters
The project addresses significant maintenance issues, as the original pavement installed in 2000 has developed extensive cracking and bumps over time.
The project covers a one-mile section of the trail originally built in 2000. Workers are using crushed existing pavement as a base layer before applying new gravel and asphalt.
The players
Iron Horse Asphalt
This is the construction contractor selected to perform the repaving work on the trail and parking lot.
Portneuf Health Trust
This organization provided partial funding to support the infrastructure improvements.
The details
Contractor Iron Horse Asphalt is managing the site, where crews are currently removing old materials to prepare the foundation. The Portneuf Health Trust provided partial funding for the improvements, which also impact traffic flow on the nearby Avenue of the Chiefs.
Timeline
The trail was originally constructed in 2000.
The closure of the trail and parking lot began on October 27, 2026.
The site is expected to reopen to the public on October 31, 2026.
Culture Shift
This project highlights the maintenance cycles required for public recreational assets originally established at the turn of the millennium. It reflects a broader shift toward preserving existing outdoor infrastructure to meet modern safety and accessibility standards.
Visitors should avoid the trailhead near the Pocatello Animal Shelter and Upper Ross Park until the scheduled reopening. Drivers in the area should also prepare for increased truck traffic along the Avenue of the Chiefs throughout the construction period.
The takeaway
Maintaining trail infrastructure is essential for ensuring long-term accessibility and safety for all local hikers. Residents should check official city communications before planning outdoor activities in case schedules shift due to weather or construction delays.
Further reading
For more information on area paths, visit the Hiking section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by LocalNews8.
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