295 views • posted 08/21/2020 • updated 08/16/2023
Mountain bike trail guidelines
In the context of mountain bike trails, excellence is realized when a trail design merges the desired outcomes and difficulty that a rider seeks with the setting in which the outcomes are realized.
by Bureau of Land Management, International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA)
Quality is difficult to define but easy to recognize. For the purposes of the Bureau of Land Management’s Guidelines for a Quality Trail Experience, herein referred to as GQTE, quality is defined as excellence. In the context of mountain bike trails, excellence is realized when a trail design merges the desired outcomes and difficulty that a rider seeks with the setting in which the outcomes are realized. These variables ultimately equate to an overall level of sustainability that protects resources while simultaneously providing a rider with the outcomes they seek.
Quality implies a sincere commitment to attaining the highest practical standard. With regard to a quality mountain bike trail experience, several attributes must apply. A quality mountain bike trail on BLM-administered land is one that is:
• Appropriate to a particular place and setting
• Environmentally and socially sustainable
• Economically responsible, taking into account long-term costs associated with maintenance and administration
• Outcomes-focused, able to provide the targeted experience and benefits for the identified rider skill level
Attached document published June 2018
The Bureau of Land Management in the US Dept. of the Interior sponsors many courses and workshops through a variety of training opportunities. Trails, recreation, land management, technical training, and public involvement are topics that are frequently covered. The BLM has also been a leader in establishing and developing the National Trails Training Partnership.
Visit Bureau of Land Management
The International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA) is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit educational association whose mission is to create, enhance and preserve great mountain biking experiences.
Sustaining Wildlife With Recreation on Public Lands
posted Nov 25, 2023
Humans and wildlife interact in multifaceted ways on public lands with both positive and negative outcomes for each group. When managed well, wildlife-based tourism and other forms of recreation can benefit conservation goals.
Environmental Impacts of Winter Recreation
posted Nov 25, 2023
Regardless of our intentions, many species perceive humans as a threat and respond accordingly. In general, animals respond to threats by first increasing vigilance (time spent looking around versus foraging), and running away if the threat is perceived to be imminent.
Vermont Town Forest Trail Standards Guide
posted Nov 24, 2023
The Vermont Town Forest Trail Design Guide was developed as part of the Vermont Town Forest Recreation Planning Toolkit, an initiative of the Vermont Urban and Community Forestry Program, to provide general guidance for designing and developing trails in town forests and beyond.
posted Nov 24, 2023
Winter recreation is a rapidly growing activity, and advances in technology make it possible for increasing numbers of people to access remote backcountry terrain. Increased winter recreation may lead to more frequent conflict between recreationists, as well as greater potential disturbance to wildlife.
