With support from REI, the Trail Conference invited agency partners and leaders in the hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding communities to discuss the opportunities and challenges of building and stewarding multi-use trails. This Trail Chat was held Aug. 9 at the Sterling Forest State Park Visitor Center.
Our day began with a discussion on multi-use trails and trail systems designed for multiple users. It was an engaging conversation as participants shared—and, perhaps most importantly, listened to—the different experiences and challenges we’re facing as user groups, land managers, and partners with unique wants and needs.
Talk continued during a visit to Sterling Forest’s new multi-use loop built by Trail Conference Conservation Corps members and volunteers, including members of all three user groups. Field Manager Erik Mickelson, who played a significant role in the design and construction of the new trails, led the hike while explaining the concepts and techniques behind building this successfully shared loop.
Participants overwhelmingly left with the optimism that we can work and recreate together for the shared benefit of everyone who wishes to enjoy trails and connect with nature, whatever their preferred method of travel. Stay tuned for more positive collaboration!