Forest Service to Revise Trail Classification System

For Immediate Release
07-24-06
Contact: Drew Vankat, Policy Analyst

303-545-9011

The U.S. Forest Service is currently soliciting public comments as it revises its National Trail Classification System (TCS). This process will result in new guidelines for trail classification, design and implementation on all 133,000 miles of National Forest System trails.

IMBA is currently evaluating the 75-page document and will send official comments to the Forest Service in the near future. Interested mountain bikers should check the IMBA website in mid-August, 2006, to view IMBA's comments and for assistance preparing individual comments. The official deadline for public comments is Sept. 1.

The draft TCS is largely positive for mountain biking and should be a major improvement over the document it replaces. In particular, the draft includes revised trail design parameters and language to manage mountain biking much like hiking and horse use, and separate from motorized recreation. Mountain biking is also categorized, along with hiking, as an activity generally acceptable on all trail classes.

Read the Forest Service's Federal Register notice for more information on the TCS revision and instructions for public comment.