Utah
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New Trails in Santa Clara River Reserve
Since the Spring of 2008, eight new trails totaling 9 miles have been constructed in the Santa Clara River Reserve. Nearly eight miles are single track added in the South Hills area to increase hiking and mountain biking opportunities. New single track trails include Rim Rock, Rim Runner, Rim Ramble, Rim Reaper, Sidewinder, Precipice, and Elusion. A special section of trail 1.2 miles in length was added to the Santa Clara/Land Hill ACEC portion of the Reserve. This section retains the name Tempi’po’op of the original two-track trail that it replaced. Surfaced with aggregate, and constructed to the newest trail accessibility standards, it makes visiting the cultural sites on Land Hill easier. To find out more about each new trail and to see the new updated Reserve map click here.
The St. George Field Office has been constructing trails following the Santa Clara River Reserve Recreation and Open Space Management Plan. The plan was completed in November 2005 along with an Environmental Assessment. Completion of the plan in partnership with the cities of Ivins and Santa Clara has been key to providing new recreational opportunities in the Reserve.
Trail construction has only been possible because of the existence of several programs. The Utah State Parks Recreational Trails Program has provided funding through two grants. Construction of all the single track has been accomplished by the American Conservation Experience (ACE) program. ACE is a non-profit conservation corps offering opportunities for both American and International volunteers to take part in challenging outdoor projects in the Western United States. The third funding source comes from BLM’s own Special Recreation Permit program. Funds are collected through the program from recreational businesses operating on public lands. A portion of these funds are used for new trail construction.
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