A4B Proposes 10 Miles of Trail for Pilot Projects

Recently, A4B sat down with MMWD staffers overseeing the Watershed Recreation Management Planning Feasibility Study to talk about what’s next for the pilot projects on Mt. Tam. We learned about MMWD’s framework for screening trails, reviewed maps, and proposed trails we think will work well.

There’s much to consider in setting up the pilot projects; MMWD’s hope is that the data generated will inform and simplify a road and trail plan that can stand the test of time. “In MMWD’s terms, we’re helping them arrive at and implement ‘strategies for trail sharing’ and they’re seeking our support to make the projects effective and sustainable,” explained A4B Board Member, Jonathan Irwin. Some of the trail sharing strategies MMWD is considering include directional trails, time-share trails, and regulations specific to Class 1 E-bikes. 

A4B has proposed a set of trails and connections that will support effective and sustainable pilot projects for MMWD while minimizing negative interactions.

As riders and leaders in mountain bike trail stewardship in Marin County, we know the challenges MMWD is facing in creating new riding experiences in the watershed. With these in mind, and based on our knowledge of the lands, we proposed 10 miles of trail for the pilots that create connections between existing mountain bike trails and minimize negative interactions with vehicles and hikers. 

There was considerable alignment between the organizations. In addition to the trails suggested by A4B, MMWD proposed a new loop in an area that would avoid impacting sensitive plant life. Talks are set to continue to advance the opportunities that will help achieve the goals of the project.

In terms of a timeline, MMWD shared that it could begin screening trails as early as June and could announce the trails included in the pilots later this summer. The screening criteria include biological, soil, and water impacts, as well as human elements like safety and experience. The pilot projects themselves could run for anywhere between 2 to 5 years. The next meeting of the MMWD Watershed Committee is June 20th. 

The significance of A4B being part of constructive conversations as a welcomed partner of MMWD must not be understated. “We gotta remember, Access4Bikes was created 25 years ago to give a voice to mountain bikers who’d been completely shut out of decision making about the use of public lands around and on Mt. Tam,” stated Vernon Huffman, A4B Executive Director, “we are BEYOND excited to help bring these projects to life!” 

Our work to achieve equitable trail access for mountain bikers continues.

Stay tuned!