Save Popular Colorado Trails Near Vail, Breckenridge and Copper Mountain

Action Alert

For Immediate Release
10-19-06
Contact: Drew Vankat, IMBA Policy Analyst

303-545-9011

Important mountain biking trails near Breckenridge, Vail, Dillon and Copper Mountain are at risk under a new Forest Service proposal. The White River National Forest has suggested singletrack closures to a section of the famous Colorado Trail and other well-known routes in order to implement a separate-use trail system.

IMBA asks mountain bikers to request the Forest Service adopt a shared-use philosophy aimed at uniting users and discouraging user-created trailbuilding. The deadline for comments is Thursday, Oct. 26.

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More Information

The 2.3 million acre White River National Forest receives 9.6 million visitors annually, more than any other forest in the country. In addition to its famous ski resorts, the White River manages some of Colorado's best mountain biking trails, including the Government, Peaks and Two Elk trails, and several sections of the Colorado Trail.

Under the current proposal emphasizing separate uses, many trails will be closed to bicycles. Some of the most important trails slated for closure to bikes include the Colorado Trail across Copper Mountain, the Lenawee Trail (part of the Montezuma's Revenge race course), the Aqueduct Trail, and two important early and late season trails near Dillon Reservoir.

IMBA is requesting the Forest Service keep intact these important mountain biking routes and maintain our access to loop trails throughout the forest. By providing properly signed trails for a variety of skill levels, a shared-use trail system offers the most recreational opportunities, minimizes user conflict and encourages users to stay on designated routes.

Additional resources, including all plan documents, can be found at the White River National Forest Travel Management homepage.

Tell the Forest Service mountain bikers deserve access to a shared-use trail system that includes some of Colorado's most important singletrack.