Subaru/IMBA Trail Crew Rocks Las Vegas

6:00 a.m. Ten early birds set off to armor a piece of sandy trail before things get cooking.
Before: The deep sand on the trail made for tough riding and high erosion potential.
After: The new armored section is now rideable and sustainable. The result was so successful that the BLM plans to armor more sandy sections the same way.
Mark and Lora's home while in Vegas. Thank you to Treasure Island Hotel and Casino for treating us like royalty. The pool was a treat!

July 2002 - The desert that surrounds Las Vegas is full of sand, cacti, and rocks, not to mention some beautiful views and incredible trails. Despite it's raw beauty, the heat and dryness of the desert climate are tough on trails, and dry erosion is a serious problem in some areas.

During their visit to Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, Mark Schmidt and Lora Woolner of the Subaru/IMBA Trail Care Crew created a new trail alignment that passed through several stretches of deep sand. Along with representatives from the Bureau of Land Management and the local bike club, BARTA, the crew stabilized a 40 foot section of sandy trail by armoring it with rock. Luckily, lots of stone was available near the worksite, and within 2 hours they had a rock-solid trail.

Although not many people are aware of Las Vegas' riding treasures, remember to bring your bike the next time you hit the strip. There is plenty of amazing singletrack just waiting around the corner!

If you're interested in learning more about armouring, stay tuned to future issues of IMBA Trail News.

Check the Subaru/IMBA Trail Care Crew schedule to learn when you can help build trails in your backyard.