BLM public lands key to Fruita Fat Tire Festival

GRAND JUNCTION, CO – A key component of the 10th Annual Fruita Fat Tire Festival, which runs Friday, April 29 to Sat., May 7, are the public lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management Grand Junction Field Office. The City of Fruita is the gateway to BLM’s McInnis Canyons National Conservation Area (NCA) and North Fruita Desert, increasingly popular destination points for mountain bikers seeking an adrenaline rush.

“BLM recognizes the significant role recreation on public lands plays in the local economy,” Supervisory Outdoor Recreation Planner Britta Laub said. “Working closely with our partners and user groups helps BLM provide diverse recreation opportunities sought by visitors.”

“We are providing a tremendous experience to users, in cooperation with the BLM, that is not only legal but also sets an example to be followed nationwide,” Fruita Fat Tire Festival Founder Troy Rarick added.

Guided rides on designated BLM trails, for all skill levels, are popular during the festival. Additionally, the Fruita Single-Track Trail Summit, educating mountain bike enthusiasts on proper trail building techniques, kicks off May 1. The Colorado Plateau Mountain Bike Trail Association (COPMOBA) and Fruita Fat Tire Festival are working with the BLM on this volunteer project to benefit mountain bike trails in McInnis Canyons NCA.

“COPMOBA is pleased to have several crew leaders participating in the Trail Summit May 1-3,” COPMOBA Executive Director Pat Kennedy said. “We’re also working with the Grand Valley Bike Patrol in offering guided rides May 5-7. We plan to showcase the beautiful trail system in western Colorado and, at the same time, help visitors understand the importance of single-track ethic in protecting our fragile desert environment.”

Visitors to our public lands are reminded that no camping is allowed off Little Park Rd. or in McInnis Canyons NCA, with the exception of designated sites in Rabbit Valley. With the increased use year-round of BLM public lands, it is important to “Leave No Trace,” be considerate of others and always obtain a travel map from the BLM before setting out.

For more information about BLM public lands or the Trail Summit, please contact Park Ranger Chris Pipkin at (970) 244-3024 or Britta Laub at (970) 244-3031. Additional information on guided rides during the Fruita Fat Tire Festival, contact COPMOBA at (970) 244-8877.

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