A new trail at Johnny Behind the Rocks celebrates 16 years of collaboration

On April 19, 2026, the BLM Wyoming Lander Field Office and Lander Cycling Club completed a new trail at Johnny behind the Rocks. The 1.6-mile trail named Jolene - for its ribbon-like path and upbeat tempo - winds along a ridgetop, giving participants spectacular views of the Johnny Behind the Rocks area and the adjacent Wind River Mountains.

The trail is designed for foot, equestrian, and mountain bike users and is rated as ‘moderate’ in skill level relative to the rest of the trail system.

Celebrating Partnership

The BLM would like to thank Lander Cycling Club for their 16 years of partnership at Johnny Behind the Rocks. The new trail is the most recent of many contributions the organization has made to the area during this time.

“It’s incredibly rewarding to see a project that I’ve envisioned for several years now come to life,” said Jonathan Weaver, Lander Cycling’s BLM Trails Coordinator. “More than anything, the fact that we were able to complete this trail with 100% volunteer led efforts speaks to the impact a group of people can have when coming together with the goal of making their community a better place.”

Volunteer Impact

According to research by the Independent Sector, volunteer hours are currently valued at $34.79 per hour. This means that the Lander Cycling Club and community members kicked in $20,000 of labor to the new trail.

“Since its inception, the contributions from this partnership are mighty,” said Jared Oakleaf, Outdoor Recreation Planner for the BLM Lander Field Office. “Lander Cycling Club and the community continue to put their shoulders-to-the-wheel to ensure the stewardship and enjoyment of their public land.” 

Ongoing Efforts and Additional Partners

The completion of the Jolene trail is part of an ongoing effort to implement the Johnny Behind the Rocks Master Trails Plan (2018) and the Lander Resource Management Plan (2014). 

Numerous other partners have supported this community-based trail system including Fremont County Recreation Board, International Mountain Bike Association, Lander Community Foundation, Wind River Outdoor Recreation Collaborative, Wyoming Conservation Corps, Wyoming Office of Outdoor Recreation, Wyoming Pathways, Wyoming Recreation Trails Program, and many more.

With every mile and every volunteer hour, the Jolene trail stands as a testament to what can be accomplished when a community unites on shared passion for adventure and stewardship, paving the way for future generations to explore and cherish Johnny Behind the Rocks.