by Kylee Boyter
kboyter@cherryroad.com
The Bureau of Land Management and the Monroe Trails Committee are proposing to construct, operate, and maintain a non-motorized trail system in the southwestern region of Sevier County, specifically around the community of Monroe. This proposed project is open for public comment and feedback on the BLM planning website until July 10.
Currently just West of Richfield, exists the Pahvant Trail System, a connection of over 80 miles of mountain biking trails ranging in difficulty level and intensity on Fishlake National Forest land.
“The Monroe Trail Committee shares some similarities with the Richfield committee that was responsible for the Pahvant Trail System, but we are a smaller group that is not only focused on mountain biking, but want to offer a variety of trails including cross country, hiking adaptive, beginner mountain biking, and nature trails,” said Mike Shaver, committee member.
The Monroe Trail Committee is made up of many Monroe locals who have a variety of skills and interest in maximizing the outcome of their desired trail systems. Those members include Shaver, Jason Williams, with the Sevier Valley Trailblazers, Jenna Jorgensen, from Jones & DeMille, Rick Werry, a team member focused on adaptive riding accessibility, Prescott McCarthy, nature park and walking trail enthusiast.
“We have a great team of really talented individuals that care about Monroe,” said Shaver.
The proposed system would consist of non-motorized mountain biking and hiking trail systems, including a National Interscholastic Cycling Association (NICA) racecourse. The Utah NICA league began in 2012 with only 320 student athletes but has now grown to just under 7,300 racers in 2023.
This growing sport would bring racers from near and far, not only to compete, but to enjoy the local scenery for a leisurely ride as well.
“Jason and I both have kids on the Sevier Valley Trailblazers Mountain biking team,” said Shaver. “Our kids have both participated in a multitude of different sports and hobbies, however none compared to the positivity and inclusivity of mountain biking.”
Shaver explained that Utah NICA chapter is the largest state-held league in the country and continues to grow in popularity. Currently, there is a need for more NICA racecourses in central Utah to support the growing number of teams and members.
The trail is to be designed for traditional mountain bikes and class 1 electronic bicycles (e-bikes), that are equipped with pedal assist motors that allow travelers to go no more than 20 miles per hour. The trail would not be authorized for equestrian usage or any other motorized vehicles, like ATVs/UTVs, four wheelers, or dirt bikes.
If approved, the BLM would designate the non-motorized trial system consistent with BLM’s Travel and Transportation Management regulations and further preserve use of the trails through a right-of-way granted to the BLM for the construction, maintenance, and use of the trail system.
“Another benefit of the trails would be the economic benefit,” said Shaver. A member of the Utah NICA explained to Shaver that for every race held roughly $1 million dollars in economic benefit is produced.
“We have the support of Monroe City and the Sevier County Commissioner as well,” said Shaver.
The Monroe Trail Commitee welcomes all comments, questions, or input on the BLM’s e-planning website, as they said they believe in making this trail system beneficial for all community members.
Share your opinion on the matter at https://eplanning.blm.gov/eplanning-ui/project/2032876/510 by going to the “Participate Now” tab on the left of the screen and share perspective on the matter.
