Working With the Friends of Fish Creek to Make Sustainable Trails a Reality
With growing numbers of mountain bikers frequenting Fish Creek Provincial Park in search of quality trail to ride, it became apparent to the Friends of Fish Creek Park that proper management of trails was essential for their continued sustainability. In 2008, the resurgent CMBA joined forces with the Friends to help develop and expand the existing trail system in the West end of the park near Shannon Terrace.
While the relationship between the Friends and the CMBA initially had its ups and downs, trust has grown between the two groups. Now, the CMBA is directly involved with the design and planning of the trail system, helping to ensure that it will work for cyclists, walkers and runners. Development of the trail system will occur for the next several years, culminating in an unpaved singletrack loop that will span the Park from the Bow River to 37 St. and back. The CMBA will continue to provide design expertise based on IMBA best practices, volunteer labour and a strong infusion of enthusiasm to keep the project rolling.
The CMBA's relationship with Park administration is based on mutual trust and provides a good model to follow when working with other Parks and Recreational Areas. Open lines of communication and establishment of a coherent plan for the Park make working together easier and much more effective.
Fish Creek Park - Mountain Bike Trails
To Whom It May Concern:
I am willing to volunteer to help maintain fish creek mountain bike trails. The gravel pathways are great fun, however there is a large amount of terrain where mountain bikers could escape the pedestrian pathways and experience all that fish creek has to offer. Mountain bikes have minimal impact on the landscape and offer Calgary residence an incredible recreational opportunity at their doorstep.
James