The challenges and rewards of trail building: My personal involvement

[Pablo_e]

Isnt it ironic that trail builders are often viewed as unsung heroes, yet their work is constantly threatened by the very same riders who benefit from their labor? Weve all seen it - a new trail opens up, and within weeks, its overrun with riders who couldnt care less about the countless hours of sweat and toil that went into building it. They just show up, ride, and leave, without so much as a second thought for the people who made it all possible.

And whats the reward for these trail builders? A pat on the back, maybe a thank-you from a handful of riders, and the knowledge that their work will be constantly eroded by the very people theyre trying to serve. Its a Sisyphean task, if you think about it - build a trail, watch it get worn out, and then do it all again.

But heres the thing - what if trail builders started to think of themselves not just as volunteers, but as artists? What if they began to see their trails as works of art, rather than just functional pathways? Would that change the way riders interact with them? Would riders start to see trails as something more than just a means to an end, but as an experience in and of themselves?

And what if trail builders started to demand more from riders - not just in terms of respect, but in terms of compensation? What if they started to charge riders for access to their trails, or demanded that riders contribute to trail maintenance in some way? Would that change the dynamic between trail builders and riders, and make trail building a more sustainable and rewarding endeavor?

Or would it just drive riders away, and leave trail builders with nothing but a bunch of empty trails and a bad reputation?

 

[al-xc]

Trail builders deserve more recognition and compensation for their artful, backbreaking work. Instead of just gratitude, what if we supported them financially, ensuring trail sustainability and respecting their creative efforts. Let's value their passion and protect our trails for generations of riders to come. #trailbuildersdeservemore

 

[Kathy Glover]

"Oh wow, what a novel concept, trail builders being underappreciated. How about we just hold a parade in their honor instead of, I don't know, actually helping them build trails?"

 

[GhrRider]

Trail builders as artists? That's a new one! But let's face it, some trails are indeed works of art, with their flowy curves and heart-stopping drops. But will riders appreciate them as such? Will they slow down to admire the craftsmanship, or will they still gun it, leaving a trail of dust and erosion behind?

As for compensation, well, that's a tricky one. Charging for trail access might make riders appreciate the trails more, but it could also create a pay-to-play culture that excludes some. And let's not forget, trail building is often a labor of love, with builders putting in countless hours for the sheer joy of it.

So, what's the solution? Maybe it's a mix of appreciation, education, and a bit of tough love. Riders need to understand that trails don't just appear out of thin air, and that their actions have consequences. And trail builders, well, they need to keep doing what they're doing, but maybe, just maybe, they can start signing their masterpieces. After all, even the gods envy those who can give the world something to die for.

 

[Mycophiles]

Trail builders deserve recognition as artists, crafting experiences rather than just pathways. But demanding compensation might create a divide, deteriorating the current rider-builder relationship. Can we cultivate a sense of appreciation and shared responsibility instead? :thought\_balloon:

 

[Twilly]

Charging riders for trail access or maintenance contributions is hardly a solution. It risks alienating the very people who use and appreciate the trails. And let's not forget, many trail builders are riders themselves. They build trails for the love of the sport, not for profit.

As for viewing trails as works of art, that's a nice sentiment, but it doesn't address the practical issues at hand. Trails are meant to be ridden, not admired from afar. And the more they're ridden, the faster they'll wear down, no matter how much care is put into building them.

Furthermore, the idea that trail builders are constantly erased by riders is exaggerated. Yes, trails degrade over time, but that's true of any outdoor space. It's not a personal attack on the builders.

In fact, the focus on trail builders as heroes or artists can be counterproductive. It risks creating a divide between builders and riders, as if they're two separate groups with opposing interests. But in reality, they're all part of the same cycling community.

So instead of looking for ways to blame or monetize riders, let's focus on promoting mutual respect and understanding. Trail builders and riders both have a stake in maintaining and improving trails. By working together, they can ensure that these spaces continue to be enjoyed for years to come.