Trail Talk: Big plans, new ideas for 2024
New trail socks and a new parks calendar — I’m ready to tackle 2024. With new ways of thinking, problem-solving and, yes, new trails to explore.
Over the holidays, I chatted with a Fort Collins multi-modal transportation visionary. I had met him years ago, and he excitedly shared “what was new.” His team recently flew in several multi-modal engineers from the Netherlands and asked them to recommend improvements to their platinum bike-friendly system. Their innovative suggestions ranged from pie in the sky to practical. Now Fort Collins is implementing some of the ideas. I suggest a trip north this summer!
The Outdoor Pikes Peak Initiative resumes this month. Led by the Pikes Peak Outdoor Recreation Alliance, it has brought forward startling and exciting ideas about how local leaders might expand recreational opportunities on Pikes Peak and do a better job of protecting the resource. After another round of community input, it will be time to choose projects.
As Colorado Springs completes the Blodgett Open Space Master and Management Plan, the Fishers Canyon planning process is just getting underway. Extending Chamberlain Trail is part of each plan. One day you’ll be able to use Chamberlain to travel between both public spaces.
2024 finally will see the completion of the northern portion of Legacy Loop. How lovely to start in America the Beautiful and take the Greenway to where it connects to Rock Island Trail and then to Shooks Run Trail.While Shooks Run still needs to be connected to the Greenway to complete Legacy Loop, once that’s done Gen. Palmer’s vision for a 10-mile loop around the city will be realized.
El Paso County Parks also has big plans for 2024. Its new, award-winning Trailability Program allows people with disabilities to access 1- to 3-mile trails in Fountain and Bear Creek regional parks. Terrain Hoppers reservations and volunteer training dates soon will be available. Plans for a new northern nature center in Fox Run Park are gaining momentum and financial support. It will be a breathtaking asset for county residents and visitors.
The Paint Mines is a county treasure that received a great deal of attention during the pandemic, attracting a record number of visitors. In 2024, this geological gem will be the focus of a planning process to manage and protect the resource.
These are only some of the exciting opportunities for active and engaged outdoor enthusiasts in 2024. Mark those new calendars, don the new trail socks and step boldly into the new year.
Davies is the executive director of the Trails and Open Space Coalition.
A hiker strolls the Blodgett Trail at Blodgett Open Space, the namesake peak looming in the near distance. An effort to create a master plan for the open space is set to launch this month.