What Does It Take To Make a Trail?
When you’re out hiking, mountain biking or riding your horse on your favorite trail, you probably don’t think much about what it took for that trail to be there. The “Trail Iceberg” diagram above illustrates some of the many processes that take place to make a new trail a reality. Local, State and Federal land managers must balance many different mandates from a variety of different constituents, often with differing viewpoints on what is an appropriate use of the land. Park, trail and open space advocates spend countless hours in meetings working with dedicated land managers to balance recreation with habitat conservation. So the next time you’re out on the trail, consider what it took to make it happen. AND ENJOY!
PARK AND TRAIL News
PPRTA Trail Suggestions
Last Week we asked for your help in providing us with feedback on urban trails that need some attention. Our goal with this survey (which is still open) is to pass your suggestions on to the Pikes Peak Rural Transportation Agency (PPRTA) for them to consider for their next round of funding.
Thanks to the 19 respondents for your suggestions. We are beginning to compile the data and will have an interactive site with maps and data in our next issue.
In the meantime, if you have not contributed your suggestions please do so here and we will be sure to pass it along to our friends at PPRTA.
Christmas Tree Cutting Permits Now Available
Create new memories this holiday season by cutting your Christmas tree. The closest tree cutting area to Colorado Springs is in the Pikes Peak Ranger District near Woodland Park. Permits go on sale November 26th with tree cutting dates through December 15th. Looking for an adventure further from home? Tree cutting permits are also available for the Leadville, Salida and San Carlos Ranger Districts. Click here for more information and to purchase a tree cutting permit.
TOSC
Cerberus Pint
Tue Nov. 30, 4:00 – 7:00 PM
We are delighted to be one of Cerberus Pint Nights Chosen Charities. Come join us and deliciously support TOSC.
Vote for TOSC as Your Favorite Local Non-Profit
Through its Colorado Springs Giving Campaign, Scheels will be giving away $40,000 to six of our community’s favorite non-profits ($10,000 to the favorite and $6,000 to five runner-up organizations). Please help us by voting for TOSC as your favorite local non-profit! You can find our organization listed in the “Outdoor Recreation” section.
WILD AND SCENIC FILM FESTIVALThur. Dec 2, 4:30 PM
Fountain Creek Watershed Flood Control and Greenway District is partnering with Trails and Open Space Coalition to present films about our precious water resources and the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion in our outdoor spaces. Thank you to the Colorado Health Foundation and Storybook Brewing for supporting this event! Virtual and In-Person Tickets available.
Community
FRESH AIR FRIDAY
Fri Nov. 26, 8:30 AM
Want to avoid shopping centers today? Meet at Elk Meadow Trailhead for Fresh Air Friday! Hike out to the site where the historic Midland Terminal Railroad went through Mueller State Park! On the way back, check out Peak View Pond. Elk Meadow to Murphy’s Cut is a 4-mile hike led by Volunteer Naturalist Cindi. Dress in layers and bring lots of water.
More info at cpw.state.co.us/placestogo/parks/Mueller
Chasing SantaSat. Dec 4, 9:00 AM
There is no better way to kick start the Holiday Season than the annual Chasing Santa/Cycling Santa Christmas Unlimited toy drive! Come be a part of the fun and festive 5K run or 15 mile bike ride, and don’t forget to bring an unwrapped toy for the Christmas Unlimited toy drive. Use discount code “TOSC” to get 10% off registration AND LYME will donate a portion of your registration fee to TOSC.
Sign up at www.runningguru.com
CONO Launch and CelebrationTue Dec. 7, 5:45 – 7:30 PM
The Council of Neighbors and Organizations (CONO) is welcoming the community to an open house celebration with free drinks and appetizers! CONO has been working hard, talking to over 150 neighborhood leaders, community members and local decision-makers. And can’t wait to tell you what they’ve heard and learned. CONO aims to help neighbors have a voice and participate in the growth that is happening in our community. Building trust in the public process and inspiring all of us to participate.