BLM expands Phil’s World Trail System near Cortez
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DOLORES, Colo. – The Bureau of Land Management Tres Rios Field Office released a decision today to expand Phil’s World, a nationally recognized mountain bike trail system six miles east of Cortez.
The decision includes developing more than 22 miles of sustainable single track, non-motorized trails and adding two new trailheads and parking areas.
“Phil’s World is one of the top 20 mountain biking destinations on BLM-managed lands,” said Connie Clementson, Tres Rios Field Manager. “Its proximity to Cortez also makes it an ideal place to implement the BLM Recreation Strategy, which emphasizes connecting communities while facilitating access to America’s backyard.”
The BLM partnered with the Southwest Colorado Cycling Association in developing this project. The partnership resulted in trails designed to International Mountain Biking Association standards ensuring natural resources, cultural sites and raptors are protected.
"We are thankful for the opportunity to work with the BLM on this important project,” said Dani Gregory, president, Southwest Colorado Cycling Association. “Expanding the continuous, epic flow single track is a perpetual resource for the local and visiting riders and our community as a whole. SWCCA members are anxious to help build the trails and ride them."
Trail work is scheduled to begin in spring 2018 by SWCCA, Southwest Youth Conservation Corps and trail volunteers working with the BLM. Construction will generally progress from south to north, with highest priority given to trails between Ledges and L roads.
Annually, the Tres Rios Field Office contributes over $94 million to the local economy with more than $40 million earned from recreational activities on BLM managed lands in southwest Colorado.
To learn more about the project, go to https://go.usa.gov/xnPDD.
The BLM manages more than 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.