Corridor Recreational Trail Management Plan
Submitted to:
Squamish Lillooet Regional District
Prepared by:
May 2009
Corridor Recreational Trail Management Plan
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The Sea to Sky Corridor (Corridor), within the traditional territories of the Squamish, Lil’wat, St’at’mc and Tseil-Waututh Nations provides some of the most extensive, desirable and publicly accessible trails in British Columbia. Situated immediately north of Metropolitan Vancouver, the Corridor is currently experiencing significant growth in recreational trails. The provincial and local jurisdictions have recognized the value of these amenities and are becoming more proactive with efforts to manage, preserve and enhance the trail networks.
The Corridor Recreational Trail Management Plan (Management Plan) is a partnership between the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and the Arts (formerly the Ministry of Tourism, Sport and the Arts) and the Squamish-Lillooet Regional District (SLRD) that balances trails situated on Crown land with provincial interests such as new development or traditional resource activities. More specifically, the Management Plan is intended to direct the implementation items contained within the Sea to Sky Corridor Recreation Trail Strategy (Trail Strategy) and the SLRD/Ministry of Tourism, Culture and the Arts (MTCA) Partnership Agreement. The Management Plan primarily focuses on the legal authorization, establishment, management and maintenance of non-winter trails situated on Crown land within the Sea to Sky region.
The Management Plan has been structured with an introductory chapter, recommended actions contained within the Trail Strategy, and comprehensive reporting of the Corridor’s trails and related improvements. Within each of these chapters the Management Plan describes and establishes inventories, standards, policies and expectations for the Corridor trails and while further providing certainty relating to a preferred management regime. The Management Plan was developed through discussions with local trail interests, municipal and provincial governments and the Corridor Trails Steering Committee. The following highlights the key findings related to the current and future status of the trails:
Trail Inventory – A comprehensive inventory and description of more than 125 trails within the Corridor. The documentation includes but is not limited to the identification of trail deficiencies, technical trail features (TTF), key features, trailhead character and signage. The complete inventory is discussed in Section 3 and attached as Appendix “D”. The intent of the inventory is to provide detailed information on existing trails to support decision making processes related to the authorization, establishment, management and maintenance of existing trails as they become formalized.
Trail Ratings – The trail inventory was then integrated within a (draft) provincial quantitative rating as well as a more subjective SLRD
Corridor Recreational Trail Management Plan May 2009
evaluation. The provincial rating is intended to assist with the authorization of the trails and their standing with regard to other Crown land uses. The SLRD ratings assist in prirortizing the trails for ongoing inspections and management.
Corridor-wide Trail Standards - The Management Plan recommends trail standards considering existing municipal and provincial standards, non- motorized and motorized trails; environmental protection and safe, quality construction. It is the intent that the SLRD and the local municipalities adopt the trail standards for consistency.
Trail Enhancements – Potential staging and expansion areas have been defined to provide a more user friendly, integrated and sustained trail network.
Trail Expansion – The Management Plan responded to the Trail Strategy’s direction to include a recommended No Net Loss of Trails Policy for consideration by the province and a Net Gain of Trails Policy for adoption by the SLRD. These policies are intended to ensure the ongoing preservation and/or expansion of Corridor trails.
Trail Classification and Heirarchy – In addition to the trail status, standards and ratings; the Management Plan also estblishes a classification based on trail type and its heirarchy based on already established standards.
Sign and Marker Standards – It is imperative that the image and information related to trail use is consistent within the Corridor. Section 3 of the plan indentifies the approved sign and trail marker standards.
The Management Plan also is proactive as it relates to the actual implementation of the initiatives. In particular, the document recognizes the appropriate:
Trail Agreements – Although the statutory decision making authority is legislated through MTCA, trail agreements provide a framework to pinpoint certain responsibilities including financial resources, trail maintenance, trail management, and liability and safety issues that are delegated to the
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local government or other trail interests.
Roles and Responsibilities – The document also further defines the governance structure and the approval process that trail upkeep and new trail expansion will need to abide by. An SLRD inspection and maintenance program has also been developed.
Communications – A Communications Strategy is included within the plan, recognizing the importance of reaching out and involving all trail interests on a continuous basis.
First Nations - The Management Plan recognizes the commitments included within senior government agreements. In addition, the plan indicates a requirement to engage First Nations communities further in trail planning and management activities through cooperative partnerships, a set implementation plan and protocols. First Nations culture and education is also an important consideration to incorporate with future trails development.
Risk Management Program – Provincial law places the responsibility for risk in the hands of land managers and owners and reasonable measures exist to ensure public safety. A risk management program is included within the plan to be implemented by the SLRD in order to effectively and responsibly mitigate against possible injury during the use of the Corridor trails. This includes the recognition of certain approaches in dealing with trail user conflicts.
Fund Raising Plan – The SLRD and Sea to Sky communities are challenged by juggling their tax base with certain amenties and requirement that also cater to visitors. The fund raising plan recognizes that contributions from an array of public, private and not-for-profit sectors is needed.
Each of these initiatives have then been incorporated into the Corridor Recreational Trail Action Plan (refer to Appendix “A”). The Action Plan provides a clear approach for the SLRD, the province, other local governments and stakeholders to fulfill the vision for the trails within the Sea to Sky Corridor.
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Page# INTRODUCTION 8
SECTION 1.0 – BACKGROUND 11
1.1 Context 11 1.1.1 Study Area 12 1.1.2 Management Plan Framework 13
1.2 Background Information and Reports 14 1.2.1 Provincial Initiatives 14 1.2.2 Sea to Sky Land and Resource Management Plan 14 1.2.3 First Nations Agreements 15 1.2.4 First Nations Involvement 16 1.2.5 First Nations Engagement 16 1.2.6 Community Engagement 17
1.3 Trail Status 18 1.3.1 Provincial Recognition of Trails and Trail Types 18 1.3.2 Roles and Responsibilities 20 1.3.3 Trail Overview 21 1.3.4 Trail Users 22
SECTION 2.0 – LONG TERM GOALS AND MANAGEMENT ISSUES
2.1 Long Term Goals, Objectives and Strategies 24 2.1.1 Goal 1 - Authorized Trail Network 24 2.1.2 Goal 2 - A Coordinated Trail Network 38 2.1.3 Goal 3 - Respect Cultural Values 43 2.1.4 Goal 4 - An Environmental Responsive Trail Network 44 2.1.5 Goal 5 - A Sustainable & Economically Beneficial Trail 47
2.2 Management Issues and Objectives 62 2.2.1 Integrated Land Use 62 2.2.2 Risk Management 62 2.2.3 Trail Use Conflicts 68 2.2.4 Funding and Resources 74
SECTION 3.0 – CORRIDOR TRAILS IDENTIFICATION, INVENTORY & APPROVAL
3.1 Trail Identification 78 3.1.1 Trail Technical Difficulty Ratings 78 3.1.2 Trail Signs and Markers 83
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3.2 Trail Inventory of the Corridor Recreational Trails 82 3.2.1 Trail Inventory 82 3.2.2 Trail Inspections 83 3.2.3 Trail Approval Process 84 3.2.4 Trail Restriction or Closure Process 85
CONCLUSIONS 87
FIGURES Figure 1-1: Trail Types and Responsibilities 2
Figure 2-1: Corridor Trails’ Governance Structure 26 Figure 2-2: SLRD Trail Management 33 Figure 2-3: Determinations of Significance for Recreation Trails 34 Figure 2-4: Preliminary Provincial and SLRD Trail Ratings 35 Figure 2-5: BC Ministry of Forests Recreation Manual 41 Motorized Trails Standards Figure 2-6: Trail Staging Areas 48 Figure 2-7: BC Trail Safety Code 71 Figure 2-8: SLRD Trail Etiquette 72 Figure 2-9: SLRD Trail Markers 73
Figure 3-1: Whistler Trail Standards and Ratings 79 Figure 3-2: Trail Approval Process 84
POLICY Policy 1 – Communications Strategy 29 Policy 2 – No Net Loss Trails Policy 52 Policy 3 – Net Gain Trails Policy in Sea to Sky Corridor 54 Policy 4 – Corridor Recreation Trail Risk Management Plan 64 Policy 5 – Fundraising Management Plan 74
APPENDICES Appendix “A” Corridor Recreational Trail Action Plan Appendix “B” Determinations of Significance for Recreation Trails Appendix “C” Existing Established and Authorized Trails Appendix “D” Inventory of Existing Sea to Sky Recreational Trails Appendix “E” Inspection Checklist Appendix “F” References
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INTRODUCTION
British Columbia offers magnificent scenery and a kaleidoscope of trails stretching from the ocean to the alpine. Although historically the majority of the trails were constructed to facilitate hunting and gathering, transportation, and later resource extraction they are now considered to be a major component of the province’s recreational infrastructure. This is confirmed in the provincial government’s February 2007 Tourism Action Plan where the paramount goal is the doubling of tourism revenues (from 2003 to 2015) particularly highlighting the importance of establishing “a provincial trails program for both urban and rural trail users on Crown land.”
The Sea to Sky Corridor (Corridor), situated immediately north of West Vancouver, provides some of the most extensive and accessible public trails in British Columbia. The trail network continues through the traditional territories of the Squamish, Lil’wat, St’at’imc and Tseil-Waututh Nations from the eastern shore of Howe Sound to the coastal communities of Lions Bay, Furry Creek, Britannia Beach and Squamish then travels north to the resort community of Whistler and the rural villages of Pemberton and Mount Currie. The Sea to Sky region is characterized by dramatic scenery, colourful communities, First Nations heritage, Crown land access and countless recreational adventures. The Corridor is both internationally acclaimed and a pre-eminent destination for trail adventures.
The area is currently experiencing unprecedented growth in recreational use, partly due to: increased population in the region; its close proximity to the Metropolitan Vancouver market; expanded tourism attracted by Whistler Resort and the 2010 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games; and interest in new and exhilarating forms of recreation such as mountain biking, adventure racing, trail riding and nature walking. The escalating usage of the region’s trail network on public and private land presents a challenge in juggling the extent
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and limits of resources while integrating both the needs and expectations of the trail user groups, new development and the traditional provincial resource activities such as logging, mining, hunting and agriculture.
This Corridor Recreational Trail Management Plan is a partnership between the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and the Arts (formerly the Ministry of Tourism, Sport and the Arts) and the Squamish-Lillooet Regional District (SLRD). The Management Plan is intended to address the following:
the manner in which partners and stakeholders have or may implement the directions contained within the Trail Strategy; how the SLRD may undertake commitments recognized in the Partnership Agreement specifically the identification and rating of trails and the preferred approach to trail management and/or maintenance considering environmental protection, risk reduction, user conflicts, and funding; and an established framework for the identification, classification and recommendation of trails by the SLRD/ Steering Committee to MTCA for consideration for inclusion into the provincial recreation trail program.
The Management Plan has been structured into three individual sections, each providing related research, analysis and recommendations that reflect the framework of the Trail Strategy and the detailed information relating to the status of the Corridor trails, as follows:
Section One – Background
The introductory chapter of this report provides an overview of the Corridor Recreational Trail initiative, considering the context, background information and reports, together with the status of the trails.
Section Two – Trail Strategy Long-Term Goals and Management Objectives
This section responds to the initiatives contained within the final Trail Strategy, providing background to its findings and the recommended initiatives required to fulfill the long-term goals and management objectives. The directions identified in this section are incorporated into the Action Plan attached as Appendix “A”.
Section Three – Trail Inventory
The third section focuses on trail identification and the overall standing of the Corridor’s recreational trails. In addition to recommending trail
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ratings, signs/markers and classifications, it provides a detailed inventory, evaluation and status summary for all of the existing Crown land trails in the Sea to Sky Corridor. The final section is a compilation of the necessary programs, protocols and/or responsibilities to ensure the ongoing success of the Sea to Sky Corridor Recreational Trail initiative. These recommended initiatives have been incorporated into the appended Action Plan. The Action Plan provides a work plan for the fulfillment of the Trail Strategy and Corridor Trail Management Plan recognizing responsibilities, timelines, and budgetary implications.
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SECTION 1 - BACKGROUND
The Management Plan primarily focuses on the legal authorization, establishment, management and maintenance of non-winter trails situated on Crown land within the Sea to Sky region. The directions contained within this Plan were developed through considerable research, inspections and community consultation and a comprehensive effort to address the challenges and opportunities facing the Corridor’s recreational trails and their respective users. The following highlights the context of the Management Plan together with relevant background studies and reports and a description of the overall trail system.
1.1 Context
In February 2007, Cascade Environmental Resource Group prepared, on behalf of the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and the Arts (MTCA), the initial draft of the Sea to Sky Corridor Recreation Trail Strategy (Trail Strategy). This document was finalized by MTCA in late April 2008. The purpose of the Strategy was “to provide strategic direction to responsible authorities and other key stakeholders for the authorization and management of recreation trails on provincial Crown land within the Corridor.” The Trail Strategy includes a vision together with long-term goals, objectives and strategies, with corresponding management directions.
In early 2007 the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and the Arts entered into a Partnership Agreement with the SLRD for the SEA TO SKY CORRIDOR shared management of various Corridor trails RECREATION TRAIL STRATEGY established under the Forest and Range Practices Goals, Objectives, Strategies & Act. The Agreement provided financial resources Management Objectives and direction for the management and maintenance of the trails. The agreement is CORRIDOR RECREATIONAL TRAIL based on MTCA policy whereby trail building may MANAGEMENT PLAN be authorized provided that land and resource Recommendations use issues and public safety issues can be appropriately dealt with. CORRIDOR RECREATIONAL TRAIL
ACTION PLAN The Trail Strategy and the Partnership Agreement An Appendix to the have set the stage for a preparation of this Management Plan Management Plan which as noted in the introductory section is intended to: implement the directions contained within the Trail Strategy; determine an approach for management and/or maintenance of Corridor trails; and identify and classify trails by the SLRD for inclusion into the provincial trail program.
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The Management Plan is intended to provide an implementation plan to fulfill the key directions contained within the Trail Strategy responding to both the Trail Strategy’s recommendations and the need for a Corridor Recreational Trail Action Plan (Action Plan).
The Management Plan is considered to be a dynamic document that will continue to be updated with receipt of new information or completion of implementing projects. Any amendment to the Management Plan will require approval by the SLRD.
1.1.1 Study Area
The extent of the Sea to Sky Corridor study area is defined as lands within the jurisdiction of the Squamish-Lillooet Regional District following Highway 99 from Britannia Beach to Mount Currie. The study area then extends east along Portage Road to D’Arcy and west through Pemberton along the Pemberton Valley Road, terminating at the Lillooet Forest Service Road.
The area of interest includes three municipalities: the District of Squamish, the Resort Municipality of Whistler and the Village of Pemberton as well as the Study Area communities of Britannia Beach, D’Arcy and Mount Currie within the SLRD Electoral Areas. This report considers all non-winter use, off-road trails (motorized and non- motorized) on Crown lands.
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It is important to distinguish that the Management Plan specifically addresses established trails on Crown lands, however, due to the integration of Corridor trail system, trails on Provincial Recreational Sites, Controlled Recreation Areas, BC Parks, Indian Reserves or private lands although not part of the inventory, these trails may be referenced. Commercial trail users are not specifically addressed in this document.
1.1.2 Management Plan Framework
The Corridor Recreational Management Plan,, in part is intended to fulfill the recommendations of the Sea to Sky Corridor Recreation Trail Strategy. An overview of these components of the Trail Strategy is as follows:
Vision: A well coordinated, sustainable and environmentally responsive trail network spanning the Corridor that respects cultural values and is managed for the benefit, health and prosperity of a diverse range of users.
Goals: 1. Authorized Trail Network 2. Coordinated Trail Network 3. Respect Cultural Values 4. Environmentally Responsive Trail Network 5. Sustainable and Economically Beneficial Trail Network
Management Objectives: 1. Risk Management 2. Trail Use Conflicts 3. Funding and Resources 4. Integrated Land Use
Section 2 of this Management Plan has been structured to directly address the goals, objectives and management directions of the Trail Strategy, ensuring that the recommendations are addressed in its implementation.
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1.2 Background Information and Reports
In addition to the Trail Strategy, the recommendations for the ongoing care and administration of the trails contained within the Management Plan have been informed by many other provincial and regional initiatives. The following provides highlights of the provincial trail initiatives, the Sea to Sky Land and Resource Management Plan, First Nations Agreements, community engagement and First Nations involvement.
1.2.1 Provincial Initiatives
In 2003, BC Premier Gordon Campbell set an ambitious target for tourism in British Columbia, challenging this sector to double provincial tourism revenues by 2015. This goal is being implemented through the BC Government’s Tourism Action Plan (February 2007) that has “established a provincial trails program (BC Trails) for both urban and rural trail systems on Crown land.”
A key Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Arts’ initiative is the Recreation Trail Strategy process. A Background Report, released in May 2007, prioritized trail development to promote active lifestyles, facilitate a diversity of trail types, encourage community or organizational support, establish world- class trails to leverage tourism, route trail access from urban areas to the backcountry and minimize environmental impacts.
The Provincial initiatives have led to the development of the Sea to Sky Recreation Trail Program – A Coordinated Approach to Trail Development. This initiative set the stage for the Squamish Lillooet Regional District’s partnership agreement with the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Arts (formerly the Ministry of Tourism, Sport and the Arts) and the delivery of the Sea to Sky Recreation Trail Program. The Trail Strategy was an initiative that evolved from this program.
1.2.2 Sea to Sky Land and Resource Management Plan
On April 11, 2008, the province approved the Sea to Sky Land and Resource Management Plan (LRMP). The LRMP considers approximately 1,091,000 hectares of Crown lands encompassing the headwaters of the Lillooet River to Harrison Lake, and from Lions Bay and Indian Arm to D'Arcy. The approved LRMP reflects First Nations' land-use agreements and provides management directions. Of interest to the Corridor Management Plan are the directions related to the:
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Understanding of trail values and the need to undertake referrals regarding applications for land uses that may impact trails; Recognition of First Nation cultural places, notably village sites, cultural sites and spirited ground areas; Respect for preserving archaeologically significant areas and sites (accessed or adjacent to trails); Importance and diversity of recreational trail users; Retention of public access points to certain recreational sites and lakes (i.e., Cat Lake, Brohm Lake); Need for public access to the ocean (i.e., south of Squamish); Identification and protection of Cultural Management Areas including lands within the Callaghan and Cheakamus valleys, Birkenhead watershed and Owl Creek; and Recognition of conservation areas identified in the Upper Soo, Callaghan and Upper Birkenhead valleys.
The Corridor Trail Management Plan has respected and incorporated the directions contained within the LRMP.
1.2.3 First Nations Agreements
The Corridor lands are within the traditional territories of the Squamish Nation, Lil’wat Nation, St’at’imc Nation and Tseil-Waututh Nation and adjacent to the traditional territory of the In-SHUCK-ch Nation. An important component to trails planning in the Corridor is working with First Nations regarding the planning and management of trails on Crown lands within their traditional territories. In addition to the concerns with trails impacting the natural environment, consideration must be given to any proposed maintenance or development on sensitive cultural, archaeological and historic sites. These directions are further outlined in provincial agreements with the Lil’wat Nation, (BC Agreement on Land Use Planning), Squamish Nation (BC Agreement on Land Use Planning), and the In-SHUCK-ch Nation (BC Strategic Land Use Planning Agreement). These agreements together with the LRMP recognize important cultural and spiritual places. Certain existing trail and expansion areas shall be planned in accordance with these agreements.
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It is important to work on a positive vision for trails within the traditional territories. Trails are considered to be valuable conduits for First Nation culture, pride and livelihood, notably to recognize and protect areas of cultural significance, complement cultural tourism (commercial and non-commercial use of trails), provide activities and skills for children, youth, adults and elders, identify connections throughout the traditional territory as well as recognize First Nations territory and culture Culturally Modified through signage, naming and routing. Tree, Lil’wat Nation
The Lil’wat Nation has also recently received title from the provincial government for more than 400 acres of Crown land in the Mosquito Lake area, northeast of the Village of Pemberton (in compensation for lands utilized for the Sea to Sky Highway). In a proactive initiative, the Lil’wat Nation and the Pemberton Valley Trails Association (PVTA) have subsequently entered into an agreement recognizing aboriginal title and rights in the context of the management of non-motorized trails. In particular, the agreement addresses the responsibilities in the Mosquito Lake area specifically considering:
the proliferation of trails, conflicts among user groups, new trail development, the impact of trails and recreation on traditional territory, liability with regard to the formal and informal trail system, and long term sustainability of trail infrastructure.
The agreement provides a framework for addressing the issues particularly regarding the use, future development and liability concerns in the Mosquito Lake area.
1.2.4 First Nations Involvement
The territorial First Nations are to be extensively involved in accordance with the commitments of existing and future protocol and engagement agreements.
1.2.5 First Nations Engagement
The Steering Committee will engage the St’at’imc, Lil’wat, Squamish and Tseil-Waututh First Nations and jointly develop an agreement with each government to ensure First Nation cultural values are
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considered and respected in trail management, planning and development activities. The directions contained within these agreements will be integrated into future revisions of the Management Plan.
The agreements should identify:
The manner in which First Nations communities prefer to be engaged in trail planning and management activities. The degree and extent to which First Nation communities choose to be involved in trail planning and management activities. The opportunities for First Nation communities to share in the social, economic, health and cultural benefits from trails. The management of trails to ensure that they reflect First Nations’ values on their traditional territory.
1.2.6 Community Engagement
In the preparation of the Management Plan there has been ongoing communication with the Sea to Sky Recreational Trail Steering Committee, user/stakeholders groups and the public. The Steering Committee meetings have been held regularly during the ongoing (12 month) process and have provided direction regarding trail status, goals and management issues.
The Management Plan also engaged stakeholders within the study area and held a series of workshops in Squamish, Whistler and Pemberton. The sessions provided information regarding this initiative while gathering input and opinions from the participants. In particular, the user groups, stakeholders were asked to identify missing trails, marquee trails, conflicting trails and trails requiring improvements. Further, there have been informal discussions with recreation industry interests and individuals in the Sea to Sky Corridor. The intent was to be visible and open to comments and concerns of the greater trails community.
A Trails Forum will be planned with a wide array of trail interests following the completion of the Management Plan. The Sea to Sky Recreation Trail Strategy recommended a workshop be held to increase collaboration amongst the province, regional land managers, and local governments. There is also recognition that user groups, the recreation industry and other stakeholders should also be engaged in these discussions. The main purpose is “to
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provide a forum for members to share information, knowledge and experiences from regions throughout the corridor. Through the forum, measures can be implemented and adopted that maintain consistency amongst the regions. The creation of a forum will ensure that as the use and demands for trails in the corridor evolve, management efforts and strategies will follow suit.” A summary of the findings is included in Appendix “B”.
1.3 Trail Status
One of the main directives of the Management Plan is to achieve either the establishment or authorization of many of the trails on Crown land in accordance with s. 56 and 57 of the Forest and Ranges Practices Act. The following subsections outline the provincial recognition of Crown land trails, governance roles and responsibilities, a description of Corridor trails and the trail user groups.
1.3.1 Provincial Recognition of Trails and Trail Types:
A main goal of the Management Plan is to compile the necessary information on the existing stock in the Corridor to facilitate provincial recognition of trails consistent with an integrated approach to resource management. The Province of BC currently has identified three types of trails in the Forest and Range Practices Act (FRPA) located on Provincial Crown land (and outside of British Columbia Parks) as follows:
Section 57 Authorized Provincial Trails: Trails that are deemed “authorized” by written consent of the Minister under s. 57 of the Forest and Range Practices Act. Fees may not be charged for trail use and there is no ability to post enforceable rules. Before the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and the Arts (MTCA) authorizes the trail, the proponent must provide a submission to their satisfaction that trail construction or management will not cause a) significant risk to public safety; b) unacceptable damage to the environment; and c) unacceptable conflicts with other resource values or users. A management agreement may be a condition of the consent for the trail use.
Section 56 Established Provincial Trails: Trails are deemed “established” by an order of the Minister under s. 56 of the Forest and Range Practices Act. The trails are typically mapped for public awareness and managed through
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agreements with a local recreational organization. Fees may be charged for these uses. Rules under the FRPA Recreation Regulation may be posted and are enforceable. Established trails must receive consideration in resource planning; however, establishment of a trail does not guarantee conservation in the same sense as a park or protected area and not intended to unduly impact industrial uses.
Unauthorized Trails - Trails that are not approved for use under the FRPA or the Land Act are considered unauthorized. This may include the legal use of a non-status road or existing clearing.
Currently there are very few “established” or “authorized” trails within the Corridor (refer to Appendix “C” and the Trail Strategy).
As identified in the Trail Strategy, there are clear advantages to achieving the authorization or establishment of trails, notably:
Ensures trails and recreation opportunities are considered in land use planning processes; Provides opportunities for integrated forest management and balance of land uses; Makes it easier to secure funding and resources for an authorized trail network; Provides a platform for partnerships and cooperative management amongst organizations; Secures government support for trail initiatives and management; Facilitates commercial recreation tenure and permit awarding processes; Ensures environmental and risk management considerations are addressed in trail planning and management; and Ensures trail construction and maintenance is not carried out unlawfully.
The authorization or establishment of trails, however, does not ensure preservation or protection of the identified trails or their surrounding environment. Under the Forest and Range Practices Act, MTCA can enact legal management objectives for “established” trails. A forest licensee is required to develop and submit for approval, strategies or results that clearly indicate how they will ensure the trail objectives will be met where there may be impacts from forestry activities.
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Further, MTCA is developing a framework that ensures that key objectives will be put in place for individual trails that recognize the recreation value of the particular trail and are consistent with both the significance and sensitivity of the trail. To assist land managers in evaluating the relative significance of that particular trail within a network, a set of draft guidelines are being developed that consider and rank trail attributes to categorize the trail as high, moderate or low significance (refer to Figure 2-4). These guidelines may also assist land managers to determine priorities for allocation of resource or management decisions. The LRMP also provides direction on and protection of trails with an objective to: “Avoid or mitigate impact to trails and trail system during land disposition and development”. This could involve:
Ensuring trail maps are kept up to date and available to relevant parties, including agency decision-makers; and Undertaking agency referral applications for lands uses that may impact trails.
1.3.2 Roles and Responsibilities
The trails within the Sea to Sky Corridor travel through many jurisdictions, whereby there are various regulatory, management and advisory interests. The following chart provides an overview of the roles and responsibilities for the range of trail types.
Figure 1-1: Trail Types and Responsibilities
Trail Type /Jurisdiction Designated Management Advisory Role Authority Responsibility
Established Crown MTCA MTCA and SLRD Steering Trails (s.56)* Committee
Authorized Crown MTCA MTCA Steering Trails (s.57) Committee
Regional Trails** SLRD SLRD Steering Committee
VOP Trails*** VOP VOP Steering Committee
RMOW Trails*** RMOW RMOW Steering Committee
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Trail Type /Jurisdiction Designated Management Advisory Role Authority Responsibility
DOS Trails*** DOS DOS Steering Committee
Trails on Privately Private Property Private Property N/A Owned Lands Owner**** Owner unless otherwise delegated
Trails within BC Parks BC Parks BC Parks N/A or protected area
Unauthorized Crown Ministry of MTCA and SC MTCA and SC Trails Agriculture and may evaluate may evaluate Lands/Integrated and recommend and Land Management for authorization recommend for Bureau or establishment authorization or establishment
* included in the signed partnership agreement ** within dedicated regional parks or regional trail lands *** within municipal owned lands such as Valley Trail in Whistler or Waterfront trail in Squamish. **** such as environmental (riparian habitat), zoning and/or building code requirements.
1.3.3 Trail Overview
The trails that currently exist on Crown land within the Corridor are some of the finest and most publicized trails in the world. Trail users find an incredible range of experiences for all interests and skill levels primarily built by an eclectic and creative mix of passionate individuals. These trails attract visitors from around the world who are eager to try the amazing network that seems to go on forever. They feature stunning scenery in a backcountry wilderness, most within a 15-minute trek from developed community and tourism facilities.
The Trail Strategy indicates that the Corridor consists of over 700 kilometres of trail (that lie outside of the BC Parks) comprised of approximately 34 km of multi-user paved pathways, 555 km of singletrack trails and 115
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km of double-track trails. Also of note, there are an additional 134 km of gated and ungated Forest Service Roads (FSR’s) that provide key access to the network but are not part of this inventory. The vast array of trails provide opportunities for people of all fitness levels to access the outdoor whether it be running, hiking, cycling, equestrian and motorized modes.
Very few of the Corridor trails are either “established” or “authorized”. The result is that many of the routes are in need of rehabilitation and a management program. Such approval and management must enable the continued organic growth and maintenance of these trails to ensure they receive the recognition needed to adequately recognize and where appropriate protect them in the land use planning process. Further, it is imperative that the management system recognizes the unique relationship local trail user stakeholders have in the success of the trail system. This can only be achieved through fostering relationships to ensure the “established” and “authorized” trail network continues to serve the interests of the individual communities, the region and the province.
A comprehensive inventory of all trails on Crown lands within the study area is described in Section 3 and compiled within Appendix “D” of this document.
1.3.4 Trail Users
There is an array of recreational interests using the trails in the Sea to Sky area, specifically:
Hikers/Walkers - This user group relies on trails for access to the alpine along with multiple destinations such as lakes and other natural viewing areas. Hikers/walkers prefer a peaceful experience and prefer not to share the trail with other more intensive users.
Equestrian - These riders are focused predominantly in the Squamish and Pemberton areas. The key to a positive experience for horseback riders is to ensure the consistent posting and acceptance of rider etiquette, particularly for mechanized and motorized users to respect and yield to horses.
Mountain Bikers - This is probably the highest use and most visible trail user in the Corridor. Mountain biking comprises many different experiences including shuttled downhill riders, free riders, cross- country (expert to intermediate) and cruisers. The enjoyment of the
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ride is dependent on many factors including the trail style, difficulty, terrain and destinations.
Motocross/Dirt Bikes/All-Terrain Vehicles (ATV’s) - There has been significant growth in this motorized segment of users in the area. Typically these motorized users travel at higher speeds (than mountain bikers and trials riders) primarily on trails that access backcountry terrain (beyond the study area) or manmade terrain parks.
Trials Motorcycles - These users travel at similar speeds to mountain bikers/equestrian and are recognized as not having the noise or terrain impacts of other off road vehicles (ORV).
Trail Runners - This is a growing group of athletes that enjoy the varied terrain and softer running surfaces offered by the Crown land’s natural areas. Further, the increased popularity in adventure racing has spurred additional interest in technical trail running and orienteering.
Dog Walkers - The canine caretakers are composed of two segments: dog owners; and commercial operations that both prefer to take the animals into more natural terrain.
Kayakers/Rafters/Canoeists (access to water resource) - The paddlers utilize short sections of Crown land trails for drop in and exiting the watercourse.
Paragliding - The gliders are similar to the paddlers as they access their launch points via short trail sections.
Cultural Purposes - There are many trails in the area that have or may have historic or archeologically significant features of particular importance to the area’s communities, notably First Nations.
Collectors - These individuals collect or harvest the natural flora in the Corridor. Individuals venture out for their own consumption, while others are commercial pickers looking for mushrooms, fiddleheads, boxwood, horsetail and other plant life.
Hunters and Fishers - These are the more traditional users of the Corridor’s trails, who typically prefer to be in the wilderness with little contact with other users.
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SECTION 2 - LONG-TERM GOALS AND MANAGEMENT ISSUES
The Corridor Recreational Trail Strategy provides a comprehensive framework for the province and local governments to achieve their desired vision for recreational trails in the region. The report provides long-term goals, objectives and strategies with management issues and objectives. This section of the Management Plan follows through on the directions of the Trail Strategy, specifically addressing and/or making pertinent recommendations.
2.1 Long Term Goals, Objectives and Strategies
The Trail Strategy’s long-term goals, objectives and strategies focus on the ability to achieve a trail network that will be recognized, coordinated, respectful of First Nations cultural values and use, environmentally responsible, sustainable and economically beneficial. The following subsections address each of the Trail Strategy’s directions, together with the appropriate deliverables.
2.1.1 Goal 1 - Authorized Trail Network
Objective : The rehabilitation and maintenance of existing and eligible trails on Crown land according to Section 57 of the FRPA.
Strategies:
1. Identify currently unauthorized trails on Crown land eligible for authorization
A primary purpose of the Management Plan is the identification of Corridor trails to be considered by MTCA for authorization and establishment. Section 3 with Appendix “D” provides a detailed inventory of the character and status for each of the recreational trails on Crown lands within the Corridor. These detailed reports provide an overview of the trails’ character, considering and providing photographs of the trailhead, signs, terrain, environmental conditions, technical trail features, bridges and other important elements. The trail status reports also provide a summary of recommended improvements as well as prioritization of “high value” trails suitable for more immediate authorization or establishment (refer to Section 2.1.1.4 also considers trail values and ratings).
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2. Develop a framework for trail agreements with SLRD and municipal governments
The Ministry of Tourism, Culture and the Arts, as the provincial agency that is responsible for maintenance and management of trails on Crown lands, has transferred this task to the Squamish-Lillooet Regional District through Agreement. The statutory decision making authority, however, is still legislated through MTCA. The agreement specifically considers:
financial resources trail maintenance trail management liability and public safety
It is also understood, through this Agreement, that to ensure community involvement and to maximize resources, additional agreements will be necessary with the SLRD, First Nations, local government and other interests. For example, volunteer groups such as mountain bike, hiking or motorized clubs may take on trail building and maintenance responsibilities. As a result it is anticipated that there will be a hierarchy of agreements coordinating the various government, First Nations and non-government trail interests. The following flow chart outlines the governance structure:
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Figure 2-1: Corridor Trails’ Governance Structure
Provincial interest in trails in the Ministry of Tourism, Corridor and the rest of the Culture and the Arts province (in consultation with other Ministries such as Agriculture and Lands and Forestry)
Squamish-Lillooet Corridor First Nations: Regional District SN, LN, NQ/TW N & ISN
Corridor Recreational Trails Steering Committee Provide recommendations to Voting: SN, LN, SLRD Staff, DOS, the SLRD Board or the RMOW, VoP, MTCA appropriate provincial ministries Non-voting: SLRD Board, or agencies for approval BC Parks
Trail Users And other trail interests Trail Clubs and Interests
SLRD=Squamish-Lillooet Regional District DOS=District of Squamish RMOW=Resort Municipality of Whistler VoP=Village of Pemberton
SN=Squamish Nation, LN=Lil’wat Nation, NQ/TW N=St’at’imc Nation and Tseil-Waututh Nation INS=In-SHUCK-ch Nation
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The Corridor Trail Agreements, therefore, should be framed to identify the respective obligations considering the following factors:
public safety liability user conflict avoidance trail approvals funding sources and initiatives staffing and resource contributions long-term trail management and maintenance
These future agreements should also be consistent with this Management Plan as well with other trail management and use agreements.
3. Provide mechanisms for local clubs and user groups to contribute to trail management activities
An important consideration in preparing the Management Plan is to establish an approach for involving local trail users and clubs in sustaining the Crown land trail network. Individual users typically rely on local outdoor or sport organizations to convey any pertinent issues. In communications with local clubs, it became evident that most of the major players in trail maintenance and advocacy, such as the Whistler Off-Road Cycling Association (WORCA), Squamish Off-Road Cycling Association (SORCA), Squamish Trails Society, Squamish Dirt Biking Association, and Pemberton Valley Trails Association (PVTA), are at capacity in regards to volunteer time and resource contributions. As a result, clubs are predominantly focusing their mandates on trail maintenance, membership participation and responsible trail use.
The Steering Committee should ensure that local trail organizations and individual users are provided the opportunity to be proactive contributors to sustaining the Corridor trail network. The key to an integrated trail management approach is developing a concise message and method for informing, involving and assisting organized and individual users. Such an initiative is best
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done with the adoption and implementation of an evolving Communications Strategy. The Strategy should not only engage the public, users and organized clubs but also inform existing and potential industry representatives and donors in the value of the trail initiative. The SLRD should proceed with the adoption of the following Communications Strategy:
Communications Strategy
A/ Messaging
The SLRD should formally adopt clear messaging regarding the Corridor Trail’s initiatives as follows:
i. Purpose of the Initiative ii. Information regarding Trail Conditions (closures, detours, etc.) iii. Post Trail Ratings and Permitted Users iv. Status of Trail Approvals v. Information about Trail Safety and Conditions vi. Information about Environmental or Hazardous Constraints vii. Trail User’s Code of Conduct viii. Commitment for ongoing Public and Interest Group Involvement ix. Recognition of Adopted Trail Standards and other Trail- related Policies x. Current Construction Projects xi. Risk Management Program xii. Any other relevant resources
B/ Tools
The following tools are intended to provide readily available information to local trail users and clubs specific to the status of the Corridor trail network:
i. Trailhead Information Signs – Messaging noted in A/ and any current news (i.e., municipal notices and website links) should be posted both at staging areas (parking and facilities) and trailheads. ii. Corridor Trails Website - The SLRD should develop a website that allows two-way communication
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between trail users and the Steering Committee or their designate to include the messaging and a blog to promote discussions about the trail system and detailed contact and reporting information. iii. Media Releases and Advertising- Encourage the use of promotional materials (i.e., municipal notices/websites, guidebooks, maps, Spirit Day, with tourism and chamber offices) about the management and extent of the Corridor Recreational Trail network. Further, promote and publicize the efforts in the local media by sharing information and opportunities for input from users and stakeholders in the Corridor. iv. Open Lines of Communication - Provide frequent updates from the Steering Committee to First Nations, trail interests (AGM and Board of Directors) and SLRD Board of Directors or local government council meetings. v. Blog - Provide comment or suggestion forums through an interactive blog on the website. vi. Annual (biannual) Trails Forum - Ensure and enable participation of trail interests and clubs at the Trail Forums.
C/ Partnerships
The local trail interests can be further assisted by developing partnerships in the management and maintenance of trails through assistance with the following: i. Training and Education - Facilitate the professional training and education of users in the planning, design and construction of sustainable trail practices (not only improving the quality of the trail infrastructure but providing career skills training for the local workforce). ii. Trail Maintenance Assistance - Partner with an array of trail users on the management and maintenance of the amenities particularly, through assistance in the planning and execution of trail days. The Steering Committee delegate could provide additional resources to enable the events to be effectively promoted, well organized and enjoyable
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by developing a “how to” toolkit that considers the needs of the trails and volunteers. iii. Maximize Funding Opportunities - Pursue securing funding sources for trail maintenance and development. iv. Shared Decision-Making - Continue to inform and involve trail users, interests and stakeholders in trail management through participation in decision- making. This can be achieved through the establishment of a Sea to Sky Recreational Trail Forum and fostering local and/or regional trail coordination committees.
D/ Trail Planning
It is important to continue to involve clubs and their memberships specifically in the ongoing planning, maintenance, approvals and expansion of trail development areas. Notably, trail planning would include:
i. Trail Standards, Future Growth Areas, and/or Closures/Restrictions – Clubs, organization and the public should be involved in review leading up to the establishment of trail standards, future development and/or trail closures.
ii. Annual Trail Sweeps - Require an annual trail sweep by community interests becoming involved in high- level inspections.
iii. User Interaction - Provide ongoing opportunities for positive interaction and contributions among different users through the annual Trails forum and other workshops.
The Communications Strategy was primarily developed to ensure input from government, and individual and organized trail interests. Section 1.2.6 of this plan specifically addresses the intent to develop a protocol for engagement of First Nations on future trail initiatives.
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4. Establish Trails Values
The Management has considered two classification approaches to establish trail values. The first considers the ratings as completed on behalf of the SLRD. The primary purpose of this classification is to manage ongoing maintenance of the trails delegated to the local jurisdictions. The maintenance works must be in accordance with provincial requirements and other requirements highlighted in this Management Plan.
The trails have also been filtered through MTCA’s Determinations of Significance for Recreation Trails (draft) which is intended to assist in “developing and assigning appropriate management objectives to trails,” taking “into account a number of local and regional issues as well as trail value”. The points assigned consider the value of the trail to both recreational users and responsible land managers. A description of the determinants is included in Appendix “C” of this report.
SLRD Management Ratings
The Corridor has more than 125 named trails, distributed almost equally around the three municipal centres (Pemberton, Whistler and Squamish). The Corridor Trails Steering Committee has considered each of the trails and with input from the project consultant and stakeholders have identified values for each of the trails. The designations noted in Figure 2-3 identify the recommended trail ratings based on the following (not prioritized) criteria:
Connectivity in Trail System; Quality of the Trail Experience (i.e. unique constructed features, flow, incorporation of natural features); Perceived Value of the Trail to the Community (spiritual, memorial, economic); Unique features of the Trail (topography, views, vegetation, wildlife, etc); Proximity of the Trail to Populated Areas; Population/Level of Use;
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Type of Trail (ensure that the communities offer a range of trails); Investment into the Trail (both paid and volunteer hours); Quality of Design, Layout and Construction; Leads to key Destination (i.e. mountain top, park, lake, cultural site); Sensitive access or views to the natural environment Community, region or provincial significance (i.e. IMBA recognized)
The evaluations that were completed were qualitative, with reference to the key components of identified above. The Trail Inventory included within Section 3 and Appendix “D” further provides detailed summaries and photos of each of the trails.
The trail ratings provide a framework for the management program that is intended to ensure that the trails are maintained as important resources to the communities and the Corridor. It is recommended that the SLRD work with Pemberton, Squamish and Whistler to identify an organizational regime to fulfill the recommend trail management program. In particular, engaging local trail clubs, fundraising initiatives (adopt a trail) and senior government funding to support the recommended inspections, clean up, repair and enhancement. The Action Plan attached as Appendix “A” recognizes that the details of the management program’s implementation will need to be continuously updated as the Action Plan is realized. The development of this program will need to await the implementation of the communications and fundraising strategies as to ensure buy-in from all interests.
The SLRD rankings provide a baseline for a trail management program as follows:
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Figure 2-2: SLRD Trail Management
High Rating Medium Rating Low Rating Frequency of Twice per year Twice per year Once per year Detailed unless there are Inspection TTF’s – then the inspections should be twice per year. Scheduled Twice per year Once per year, as Once per year Maintenance needed perhaps unless there are for the most part TTF’s – then the trail sweep days will inspections should suffice. be twice per year. Mitigate Immediately As able, subject to As able, may need Problem Trail safety issues to close trail until Issues* rectified Funding High Priority from Medium Priority Low Priority from Local Government/ from Local Local Government/ Fundraising Government/ Fundraising - Fundraising – suggest adoption suggest adoption by local trail clubs by local trail clubs or other trail or other trail interests interests * Also in accordance with Section 32.4 of this Management Plan
Provincial Trail Classifications:
The trails have also been filtered through MTCA’s recently drafted Determinations of Significance for Recreation Trails which is intended to assist in “developing and assigning appropriate management objectives to trails,” taking “into account a number of local and regional issues as well as trail value.” The points assigned consider the value of the trail to both recreational users and responsible land managers. A description of the determinants is included in Appendix “C” of this report.
Although the majority of this Management Plan focuses on trails existing on Crown lands, all “high value” trails on any public or private lands within the Corridor have been considered.
The criteria consider the following: Linkage and connectivity; Cultural/historic significance; Setting (natural, semi-natural and disturbed); Use level;
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Investment; Trail Infrastructure; and Trail Surfacing.
The following matrix identifies these determinations:
Figure 2-3: Determinations of Significance for Recreation Trails (May 2008 Draft Document)
Category Descriptor Attribute Pts Rating*
Critical linkage High Important linkage or 3 1. Linkage and Community or connection Connectivity network linkage Recognized trail 2 connection Non-connecting trail 1 Heritage Heritage Designation by High 2. Heritage /Historic Designation OIC Value Historic Value Recognized Historic Value 3 Natural (ROS: P or SPNM) 3 3. Setting Disturbance Semi-Natural (ROS: SPM/N) 2 Disturbed (ROS: NR/MR/R) 1 Scenic features High value 3 4.Scenic Features along route or at Moderate value 2 destination Low value 1 Very High (>1001 user 3 H: 16-21 days/yr) M: 9-15 5. Use Level Estimated use High (501-1000 user days/yr) 2 L: 3-8 Moderate (101-500) 1 Low (<100) 0 Major bridges/ trestles 3 Trail Infrastructure Minor bridges/ culverts 1 6. Investment Major surfacing/ ballast 3 Trail Surface construction Minor surfacing 1
A complete explanation is attached as Appendix “B”.
As previously noted, eligible medium value trails will be considered for authorization by MTCA. This could potentially be achieved through a GAR order that would be issued by MFR to ensure the trails are not rendered ineffective upon completion of harvesting. The LRMP also provides additional direction and protection of trails.
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Figure 2-4: Preliminary Provincial and SLRD Trail Ratings
LOCATIO TRAIL PROVINCIAL SLRD RATING N CLASSIFICATION Lumpy’s Epic 11 H Overnight Sensation 11 H Happy Trail 8 High H Mosquito Lake Loop 10 High M Tenquille Lake 14 H Tour de Soo 8 M Riverside/Bathtub/ Smoke a 11 High H Howie Creampuff 13 High M Econoline 9 M Radio Tower 10 H Dark Forest 12 M Lower Mackenzie Cruise 11 H Pemberton Creek Waterfall Trail 12 M Valley Loop 12 High H Smell the Glove 6 M Strawberry Fields 9 M Sphincter Rock 11 M Cop Killer 7 M Eight Seconds 6 L
Waco 7 High H Bob Gnarley 12 M Jim Jam 10 H Mission Impossible 13 H Indy 13 H EM BERTON
P Hawaii 11 M Blood Sweat and FEAR 11 M Meat Grinder 6 L Grumpy Grouse 13 H Ramble On 7 M Moby Dick 9 M Gravitron 9 L Squirrel Boy 5 L Tower of Power 12 M K2 13 M One Mile 14 High H Camel Bumps 8 L Wolf Trail 9 High H Log and Rock 7 L Coiler 9 L Mr. Rogers 9 M Batter Up 9 L Freak Boy 6 L JK Traverse 7 M Chair Traverse 9 M Psychopath 7 L
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TRAIL PROVINCIAL SLRD RATING CLASSIFICATION Flank Trail 11 High H Comfortably Numb 12 H Kill Me Thrill Me 11 High H Jaws 4 L Industrial Disease 7 H Danimal 14 High H River Runs Through It 11 H Cut Yer Bars 8 H Emerald Forest 9 H Interpretative Forest Riverside 13 High H West Ridge Trail 7 M Lost lake 18 High H Valley Trail 16 High H Tunnel Vision 9 H White Knuckle 10 M No Girlie Man 12 H Big Kahuna/Shit Happens 9 High H
Green Lake Loop 13 High H Cat Scratch Fever 12 M Rick’s Roost 13 High H Bart’ 12 High H HISTLER Cheap Thrills 15 H W High Society 11 M Pura Vida 13 M Beaver Pass 12 High H Billy Epic 16 H Lower Sproat 15 High H Trash 16 H Train Wreck 15 M Yoda 7 L 99’er 10 M High Trail 8 High H PHD 11 M Tour de Soo 12 M Jane Lakes 6 L Calcheak 15 High H Sirloin 10 M Whip Me Snip Me 8 High H Rebob 12 High H Blueberry 11 High H Big Timber 16 H Binty’s 6 L
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TRAIL PROVINCIAL SLRD RATING CLASSIFICATION Jack’s Trail 10 High H Powerhouse Plunge 8 High H Ring Creek Rip 10 High H Crumpit Woods 9 High H Cliff’s Corner, Rob’s Corners, 11 High H Mashiter, Entrails, Rollercoaster Cheshire Cat 12 M Ray Peters Trail 12 High H Cheakamus Canyon 14 High H Credit Line 11 H Power Smart 15 H Ed’s Bypass 10 M Made in the Shade 11 H Wonderland 13 High H Alice Lake 13 High H Estuary Trails 9 High H Mike’ Loop 9 High H Farside 9 High H 3 VIRGINS 10 H
QUAMISH Tracks from Hell 12 M S Plural of Nemesis 11 M Crouching Squirrel 10 M DeBeck’s Grind 10 M Seven Stitches 12 H Bob McIntosh 11 High H Take the Donut 8 L Foreplay 9 M Entrails 12 H Flat Alley 12 High H Recycle 10 M Skookum 10 H Peanuts Wild Ride 8 M 19th Hole 7 L IMBA Smart 14 H Pseudo Tsgu 12 H Value Added 9 M
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2.1.2 Goal 2 - A Coordinated Trail Network
Objective: Increase collaboration amongst the province, regional land managers, local governments and stakeholders.
Strategies:
1. Establish a communication and governance model for collaborative management of the Sea to Sky Corridor Trail Network
The Communications Strategy in part fulfills this strategy as contained within Section 2.1.1.3. The SLRD is responsible for the Risk Management Program and provides the necessary funding and resources to the Steering Committee delegate to ensure compliance.
The governance model is included within Section 1.3.2 and 2.1.1. It is the intent that there be administrative staffing to manage the day-to-day requirements to achieve the directions contained within the Action Plan (Appendix “A”).
2. Adopt and implement Corridor-wide trail standards and guidelines based on established standards and guidelines
The Corridor has a need to ensure durable and environmentally sensitive trail construction considering the unique character of the recreation trails and natural areas. In the past, trails built by rogue trail-builders, commercial operators and government were fuelled more with passion than technical knowledge for sustained trail design. With challenging terrain, varying climate and increased ridership, so-called disposable trails not only are a waste of resources but also create unforeseen and negative impacts on the natural environment and perceptions of impacting activities.
Fundamental to the authorization and establishment of new trails is the adoption and implementation of trail standards and guidelines that are consistent throughout the Corridor and the province. Further, the Corridor Trail Standards must include proven design considerations for building an array of non-motorized, motorized and environmentally sensitive trails.
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The Resort Municipality of Whistler has been an early developer of trail standards that have not only been embraced by this resort community but also adopted, in part, by the International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA). The Trail Strategy recommends that Corridor trail types should be consistent with the Whistler Trail Standards, while Type I and Type II trails should be constructed in accordance with the BC Ministry of Forests, Recreation Manual, Chapter 10 (2000).
The Trail Strategy specifically indicates that singletrack trail guidelines should consider IMBA’s Guide to Building Sweet Singletrack (2004). Recent consultation, however, with local clubs and trail builders have recommended that Whistler Trail Standards be applied to these Type III-IV trails as they retain the opportunity for greater creativity (while retaining the technical integrity) and are more appropriate for the local climate, vegetation and terrain. The Trail Strategy also recommends certain additions relating to the protection of the natural environment and technical trail features (TTF’s).
Corridor Trail Standards: It is recommended that the Corridor adopt the Whistler Trails Standards with the following addendums:
Trail Strategy Recommendations - The strategy includes a section that focuses on Trail Standards and Guidelines. In particular, it is recommended that the Whistler Trail Standards be endorsed subject to the following additions:
The development of additional trail design and construction guidelines related to environmental impacts, erosion resistance and blending with the natural environment; Trail construction for Type I and II be consistent with the BC Ministry of Forests, Recreation Manual, Chapter 10 (2000); Fall zone standards; and Incorporation of Motorized Trail Standards and Universal Access as noted in the subsequent paragraphs.
Motorized Trail Standards - The Whistler Trail Standards do not specifically address motorized trail standards; however, such guidelines are contained within the BC Ministry of
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Forests, Recreation Manual. This manual considers a range of summer and winter motorized use; however, for this Management Plan, only trail standards or motorcycles (dirt bikes) have been considered. It is recommended that the motorized standards be developed and incorporated into the Corridor Trail Standards based on the following:
Principles: Alignment on easy trails should not combine sharp curves with rough surfaces or steep grades. A loop form of trail layout provides a variety of distances and terrain conditions to the user Experienced riders may cover 80 to 120 km in an average day, thus the trail length should reflect such. Climbing turns are preferable to switchbacks. Climbing turns or switchbacks in areas of sensitive soils will require trail hardening. Concrete blocks secured with a rebar anchor may be used for this purpose. Bridges should have a straight-on approach and should be constructed with a minimum 1 metre clearing. Trail junctions should be clearly visible from both routes, and no more than two trails should intersect at any one crossing.
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Figure 2-5: BC Ministry of Forests Recreation Manual – Motorized Trails Standards
Requirements Novice Intermediate Difficult*
Grade
• Max. grade 15% 30% 50%
Clearance
• downhill side 60 cm 4.5 cm 45 cm • uphill side • level 90 cm 90 cm 90 cm • height 60 cm each side 60 cm each 5 cm each side side 2.5 m 2.5 m 2.5 m
Tread** • width 40-75 cm 45-60 cm 30-60 cm • surface
relatively smooth relatively rough relatively rough with rock and roots sections with with some very protruding < 7 cm; some loose rough sections of
avoid sand and material loose rock, sand loose material and mud Turns 2 6 11 • per 400 m
* the upper limit of grade and pitch length for difficult trails depends on soil type, amount of rock, vegetation type and other factors affecting the stability of the trail surface. ** increase tread width 15 cm on switchbacks or where side slopes > 50%
Universal Access – The Whistler Trail Standards also do not specifically consider universal access in the design of trails for persons with disabilities. The Universal Trail Access Process (UTAP), developed by Beneficial Designs through a US Government grant identified five (5) access characteristics (following a pilot study conducted in Yellowstone National Park and the Gallatin National Forest.) The recognition of the characteristics and
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respective standards conveys the necessary public information regarding the trail’s appropriateness for wheelchairs considering grade, cross slope, surface type, obstacles and trail width. The UTAP process should be incorporated into the Corridor Trail Standards.
Interpretation of Trail Standards: Although there was general support for the adoption of the Whistler Trail Standards, a segment of the trail designers, builders and riders indicated a concern that the requirements were being interpreted too narrowly and therefore nullifying the important craft of trail building. Like a bottle of wine, each trail should be a reflection of the soil, terrain, weather, environmental features and the personality and experience of the maker. It is therefore critical that the trails in the Corridor not become a generic experience but rather embrace each area’s unique character and physical features. This goal is to continue to further enhance the Sea to Sky region as a pre-eminent trail destination. Therefore, in application, a creative interpretation of the Whistler Trail Standards should be encouraged (subject to safety and environmental necessities) so as to ensure that unique features are showcased (challenging features should be encouraged provided they are well marked, do not have a detrimental impact on the environment and provide riders of lesser abilities a safe detour).
Trail Inventory and Inspections: The inventory and inspections provided in Section 3 and Appendix “D” have applied the Whistler Trail Standards as a minimum requirement. Although the majority of the unauthorized trails are not built to these recognized standards, it is recommended that they be applied to any future improvements and rehabilitation works.
Section 2.1.1.4 of this Management Plan identifies the SLRD’s trail ratings together with a maintenance and inspection criteria.
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2.1.3 Goal 3 - Respect Cultural Values
Objective: Ensure First Nation cultural values are considered and respected in trail management and planning activities
Strategies:
1. Engage First Nations communities in trail planning and management activities
2. Establish partnerships with First Nations to identify and enhance meaningful trail-related opportunities
3. In cooperation with appropriate First Nations, develop a protocol and implementation plan for considering authorizations of trails on Crown land and within traditional territories.
As mentioned in the introductory sections, the Corridor lands are within the traditional territories of the Squamish Nation, Lil’wat Nation, St’at’imc Nation and Tseil-Waututh Nation and adjacent to the traditional territory of the In-SHUCK-ch Nation. The Land and Resource Management Plan for the area and related provincial agreements with affected First Nations recognize the importance of establishing partnerships in trails planning and development. In particular, the LRMP and the agreements highlight the need to respect the natural environment, and sensitive cultural, archaeological and historic sites.
The Lil’wat and Squamish Nations participate as members of the Steering Committee. Further, MTCA and First Nations are in the process of developing a protocol and implementation plan to address trail approvals on Crown lands within traditional territories. There is also recognition First Nations culture may be incorporated into the design of trails and related infrastructure such as routing, signage and naming.
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2.1.4 Goal 4 - An Environmentally Responsive Trail Network
Objective: Minimize impacts to the natural environment from trail construction, maintenance and use.
The development and establishment of trails in the Sea to Sky Corridor has been considered to be an important component of the vitality and health of the local communities. The trail network, however, should meet the objective to “minimize impacts to the natural environment from trail construction, maintenance and use.” (Trail Strategy). The consideration of the environment is highlighted in the Trail Strategy to consider the following:
Strategies:
1. Evaluate the existing network to identify trails unduly impacting the environment and rehabilitate, relocate or deactivate.
The inventory provided in Section 3 and Appendix “D” presents a detailed overview of trail-specific environmental impacts discovered during the trail inspections. The on-site environmental reviews consisted of visual inspections only (the consultants have awareness of trail building best practices, but do not have any specialized expertise in detailed environmental review). The inspections documented the following environmental impacts:
Tree Disturbance: The impacts recorded primarily focused on exposure of the root systems or cuts directly into the tree trunks. The root exposure was prevalent on both hiking and mountain biking trails, while off- road vehicles (ORV) and mountain bike pedals or handlebars primarily caused the cuts into the trees where the trail had tight corners or obstacles.
Erosion: There were two main causes of erosion found on the Corridor’s trails: water and trail construction techniques. Trails that have not adequately mitigated anticipated water flows and drainage (through ditching, culverts) have resulted in rutting, ponding, silting and
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slope failure. As a significant amount of the Sea to Sky Corridor is within a coastal rainforest, water management is fundamental to trail design and construction.
Erosion was also due to either poor construction techniques or a design that did not anticipate the type (i.e., motorized or mechanized) or frequency of the users. In many cases trails are constructed too close to watercourses or on unstable slopes where there has been soil failure. In addition, many trails are not appropriately reinforced or armoured to deal with the existing use patterns. Technical advances, particularly in mountain bikes, have pushed the limits of rideable terrain with impacts that were not anticipated when trails were originally built.
Trail Braiding: Trail braiding is typically caused when a trail has an obstacle (wet areas, natural drops, fallen trees, erosion, or exposed rocks or boulders) or technical trail features that are considered to be too difficult for many of the users. Rather than remaining on the designated routing, “shortcuts” or “bypasses” are created, resulting in trail braiding.
Wildlife Conflicts: As most of the trails on Crown lands are within or adjacent to natural areas, it is anticipated that several of the routes may conflict with existing wildlife patterns. However, since qualified environmental professionals did not complete the trail inspections, it is difficult to determine potential wildlife impacts. During the course of the inspections both sightings and evidence of wildlife movement were apparent (i.e., black bears, wolverines, cougars, coyotes, bobcats, deer, etc.).
Riparian Areas: Many Corridor trails run along or traverse watercourses or poorly drained areas. In the past, bridges have been constructed in a manner to facilitate the trail use without consideration to important riparian or wetland habitats.
2. Establish environmental criteria for the evaluation of future trail proposals.
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3. Adopt Corridor-wide guidelines for trail construction and maintenance that minimize impacts to the environment.
A key aspect in the preparation of the Management Plan is the objective to draw on existing resources and approval processes. In considering trail development impacts on important environmental areas, it should be recognized that there are several existing environmental evaluation requirements that are overseen by senior and local governments. This report recommends that an integrated and streamlined approach be implemented to ensure that present and future trail maintenance and development is undertaken in an environmentally sensitive manner and does not duplicate already existing processes. The following guidelines should be considered in the ongoing maintenance and expansion of the Sea to Sky Corridor Recreational Trails.
Coordinated Environmental Reviews: Typically, minimal approvals are required for the construction of new trails even when completed by municipalities. It is therefore recommended that any new trail developments be referred to the affected local and senior government agencies to ensure compliance to existing environmental requirements.
Ongoing Inspection, Monitoring and Maintenance Programs: As already recognized, each jurisdiction responsible for the management of trails or Crown land should be required to undertake ongoing inspection, monitoring, reporting and maintenance in accordance with established standards, to proactively minimize environmental impacts (refer to Section 2.1.1.4).
Working with First Nations and Community Environmental Interests: Local trail managers should develop and maintain a productive working relationship with First Nations and community environmental and naturalist groups, as typically these individuals have expertise in identifying potential environmental concerns. Annual presentations to organized groups can also assist in mutual understanding of the relationship between trail impacts and the natural environment (refer to Communications Strategy in Section 2.1.1.3).
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2.1.5 Goal 5 - A Sustainable and Economically Beneficial Trail Network
Objective: Develop coordinated, formal effort to address challenges to sustainability of trail network.
The final goal has stated objectives for development of a coordinated, formalized effort to address challenges to a sustainable trail network and ensure “no net loss of trails” in the Sea to Sky Corridor. The strategies and implementation related to this goal include:
1. Stakeholders in each region should conduct a strength, weaknesses, opportunities and threats analysis for the trail network in each region.
The strength, weaknesses, opportunities and threats (SWOT) will be identified at the anticipated Trails Forum.
2. Develop regional and local (municipal) action plans to address threats and weaknesses to trail networks.
Each municipality should prepare trail planning strategies that are consistent with the directions of this Management Plan.
3. Identify strategic locations for the establishment of network trailhead staging areas on Crown land.
As the Sea to Sky Corridor continues to attract and accommodate trail users from both within and outside the region, there will be an increased need for trailhead staging areas that are readily accessible to significant trail development. The trail inventory in Appendix “D” provides detailed recommendations for trailhead improvements for all of the recognized trails in the Sea to Sky Corridor, while this section focuses on staging areas which are larger central meeting areas providing access to a large network of trails. Staging areas are part of the recreation product providing ease of access, parking, maintained toilets, animal-proof garbage receptacles, maps and directional signage. The staging areas also legitimize the trail facilities for visitors and encourage trail users to ride or walk to trails rather than drive. Ideally these staging areas should be part of an established or future community hub or visitors’ centre.
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The Trail Strategy indicates a need to establish trailhead facilities on Crown land. In review of this requirement it is evident that although there is in many cases an abundance of Crown land close to trail development, the location is not always suitable for staging improvements. Furthermore, there are existing locations (not on Crown land) that already are accessible and offer many of the needed amenities. This Plan recommends that to limit the footprint of trail development and to ensure that the trails are readily identifiable and provide users the necessary facilities, consideration should be given to providing trail staging areas, whether or not they are located on Crown lands. This approach is also consistent with the Trail Strategy’s long-term goal to have a Coordinated Trail Network, as it will contribute to the seamless enjoyment of trails, despite jurisdictional realities. The following chart identifies recommended staging areas (that serve several trails in a particular area), recommended improvements and land ownership (note that staging areas that are shaded are not Crown lands): Figure 2-6: Trail Staging Areas PEMBERTON AREA Priority Staging Area Proximity of Recognized Existing Facilities Owner Trails (recommended facilities) 1 Sabre Pit At CN Rail crossing to Mapping, signage and parking Private Parking Lot Mosquito Lake (maintained toilets, and garbage) 2 Community Riverside trail, Mackenzie Parking, maintained toilets, SLRD Centre Basin Trails garbage (mapping and signage)
3 One Mile Lake Nairn Falls trails and One Parking, beach, maintained Village Mile Lake/Lumpy’s toilets, garbage, mapping and of signage Pembert on 4 Nairn Falls Nairn Falls trails and One Parking, maintained toilets, Provinci Mile Lake/Lumpy’s camping, garbage, mapping al Park and signage 5 Mosquito Lake Mosquito and Ivey Lake Parking, washroom, mapping and Crown Trails, Mackenzie Basin trail information Land Recreati on Site 6 Crown lands in Mosquito Lake trails (Parking, washroom, mapping Crown close proximity and trail information) Land to Mount Currie/ Lower Eastern Mosquito Lake access
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WHISTLER AREA Priority Staging Proximity of Existing Facilities Owner Area Recognized Trails (recommended facilities) 1 Rainbow Westside Trails, Parking, trail map and signage Crown Trailhead Flank Trail, Rainbow (maintained toilets, garbage Land Trail although these facilities are readily available at Rainbow Park <1.0 km to the south) 2 Whistler Demonstration Parking, trail maps and Crown Interpretativ Forest Trails, Train signage (with Athlete Village Land e Forest/ Wreck, Babylon by the proposed Athletes’ Centre (Demonstr Athlete Bike, Tunnel Vision, will provide maintained toilets, a-tion Village Khyber, Jane Lakes, garbage and shower facilities) Forest and Flank Trail (across Whistler the highway) Controlled Recreatio n Area) 3 Wedgemont Comfortably Numb, Limited parking (maintained Crown Green Lake, Kill Me toilets at highway parking, Land Thrill Me, garbage, trail mapping and Wedgemont Trail signage) 4 Cougar Section 102, Flank, Limited parking and mapping Crown Mountain Soo Valley, Cougar (formalize parking area, and Land with Access Mountain, Ancient provide mapping, directional adjacent Road Cedars, Shown signage, and garbage) Commerci Lakes, Kill Me Thrill al Tenure Me 5 Shadow Shadow Lake Trails, Parking (across highway), Crown Lake* Soo Valley, Tour to maintained toilets, garbage, Land Soo and PHD mapping and signage Recreatio n Site 6 Whistler Flank Trail and Parking, maintained toilets, Crown Olympic Whistler Olympic garbage, camping - at Land Park Park Callaghan Provincial Park, trail maps and directional signage (signage could be enhanced for trails/connections beyond Parks and need to confirm when facilities are open during the summer) 7 Calcheak Brandywine Parking, washroom, garbage, Crown Recreation Provincial Park trails, camping, trail maps (signage Land Calcheak could be enhanced) Recreatio Recreation, Sea to n Area Sky Trail, Train Wreck
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Priority Staging Proximity of Existing Facilities Owner Area Recognized Trails (recommended facilities) 8 Brandywine Brandywine Parking, washroom, garbage, Provincial Provincial Provincial Park trails trail maps (signage could be Park Park* and Sea to Sky Trails enhanced beyond the Park)
9 Lost Lake* Lost Lake Trails, Limited parking, washroom, Resort Comfortably garbage, beach and trail map Municipali Numb/Foreplay, and signage. ty of Green Lake Whistler
SQUAMISH AREA Priority Staging Proximity of Existing Facilities Owner Area Recognized Trails (recommended facilities) 1 Brennan BMX Park; day-long Trail Mapping and District of Park Leisure rides of Diamond Directional Signage Squamish Centre Head and Test of (parking, maintained Metal Course; toilets, showers, garbage, Valleycliffe (Crumpet camping, skills park) Woods) and Smoke Bluffs 2 Squamish Trails accessed from Trail mapping, signage, District of Adventure Valleycliffe (Crumpit parking, maintained toilets, Squamish Centre Woods), Estuary and garbage, camping, Smoke Bluffs commercial operators 3 Cat Lake Brohm Ride, Cat Lake Maintained toilets, Crown Land and Cheshire Cat signage, garbage, (not part of parking, caretaker, beach, proposed camping (increased CRA) signage, mapping) 4 Brohm Lake Cheakamus Canyon, Parking, maintained toilets, Crown Land Brohm Lake Trails garbage, trail maps and Recreation directional signage Site (signage could be enhanced for trails/connections beyond Rec Area) 5 Quest Trails accessed from Trail routing and Private University Garibaldi Highlands / directional signage, Property/Qu District Alice Lake trails / maintained toilets est University Road/ Diamond Head (parking, garbage) (surrounding Soccer Field access road Crown land?)
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Priority Staging Proximity of Existing Facilities Owner Area Recognized Trails (recommended facilities) 6 Alice Lake Alice Lake, Cat Lake Parking (pay), maintained Provincial Provincial and Brohm Ridge toilets, showers, garbage, Park Park* camping, beach, trail maps and directional signage (could be enhanced for trails/ connections beyond Park) 7 Don Ross Ray Peters Trail, Parking (maintained toilets, School School or Estuary, Cheakamus garbage, maps and District Squamish Canyon signage) /District of Airport Squamish 8 Chance Sea to Sky Trail Parking (maintained toilets, Crown Land Creek garbage, trail maps and directional signage) 9 Squamish Dyke Trail System Parking, maintained toilets, Private Golf & garbage (trail maps and Lands Country directional signage) Club 10 Garibaldi Trails accessed from Future Trailhead Private Highlands/ Garibaldi Highlands / development Lands that Perth Drive Alice Lake trails / may be part Diamond Head of access road amenity/par k dedication requirement
The Sea to Sky Recreation Corridor Trail Strategy provides additional details of what should be included as far as mapping, signage and information at staging areas. Staging areas that have an asterisk* have not been rated as a top priority since they do not require any substantial improvements.
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Objective: Ensure ‘no net loss’ of trails in the Sea to Sky Corridor
Strategies:
3. Provincial, regional and local government adopt and implement “no net loss” of trails policy in the Corridor
The Trail Strategy identified the importance of a “no net loss” of trails policy in the Corridor. This Management Plan does not have the authority to implement policy directions on Crown land trails as MTCA can only adopt and/or implement a policy that is in accordance within existing legislation (Forest Range and Practices Act). Alternatively, local governments can “encourage” MTCA to use best practices and “require” licensees to meet legally established management objectives or practice requirements. It is therefore recommended that the local governments of the Sea to Sky Corridor respectfully request MTCA to embrace the following “No Net Loss” policy for established trails on Crown land . A trail is defined within Section 1.3.1.
No Net Loss Trails Policy for Established Trails on Crown Land in the Sea to Sky Corridor DRAFT POLICY STATEMENT for consideration by Ministry of Tourism, Culture and the Arts
The Ministry of Tourism, Culture and the Arts may:
1. Work to provide mechanisms for the ongoing management, retention, improvement and expansion of the existing Corridor recreational trail network.
2. Access ongoing funding to enable the preservation of the Corridor trail networks’ overall quality, quantity and experience.
3. Require that the trail amenity be protected through best practices in planning, design and management, when new resource uses occur in proximity to existing trails.
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4. Only consider rerouting or redevelopment of an authorized or established trail when protection is not possible due to the pending impact of resource uses or where the proposed changes have been deemed necessary to achieve other important community or provincial objectives.
5. Guarantee, when considering the rerouting and redevelopment of authorized or established trails, no net loss to the overall quality, quantity, and/or experience of the these network in consultation with municipal jurisdictions and trail clubs/stakeholders.
6. Apply an experienced-based rather than only a quantity-based approach to the planning and development or replacement trails. This will allow the desirable qualitative aspects of Corridor trails to be retained.
7. Develop an effective mechanism to ensure that the licensee and beneficiaries of the land development/resource uses appropriately share the cost of completing the new trail development due to rerouting or redevelopment of established or authorized trails
8. Ensure that the rerouting or redevelopment of established or authorized trails are secured before final approval of the proposed development or resource uses. Cash-in-lieu for trail replacement will only be considered when acceptable to MTCA.
9. Identify potential trail network expansion and/or enhancement areas in each region (consistent with integrated land use planning processes) as recognized in planning initiatives commenced or approved by the province, First Nations and local government.
The Corridor Trails Steering Committee also recommended a policy of net gain in regards to impacts on trails in the region. Land use pressures within the Corridor particularly on private lands make it critical to not only maintain existing trails but also undertake expansion, whenever possible, in order to maintain a position as a market leader in destination trail opportunities.
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A net gain policy should also be applied to municipally owned trails.
Further, the net gain policy should extend to the development of private, and municipal land to minimize the negative impacts of new development. It is also in the community’s best interest to have the connectivity of existing and proposed trail networks through a net gain making for healthier and pedestrian-friendly communities.
Research was unable to find a clear policy directive for net gain of trails. As a result, such a policy was developed considering not only the gain in trail distance but also the trail type, user group, connections and unique experience. The following draft net gain of Crown land trails policy statement was prepared considering directions from the Steering Committee, municipal staff, stakeholder interests and additional research:
A Net Gain Trails Policy in the Sea to Sky Corridor DRAFT POLICY STATEMENT for adoption by the SLRD
Local government shall:
1. Work to provide mechanisms for the ongoing management, retention, improvement and expansion of the existing recreation trail network.
2. Enable the preservation of the existing trail network’s overall quality, quantity and experience.
3. Require that when new development or resource uses occur in proximity to existing trails, the trail amenity be protected through best practices in planning, design and management.
4. Only consider the rerouting or redevelopment of an existing trail when protection is not possible due to the pending impacts of new development or resource uses and where the proposed changes have been deemed necessary to achieve other important community objectives.
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5. Guarantee a net gain to the overall quality, quantity and/or experience of the trail network in the rerouting and redevelopment of existing trails.
6. Apply an experience-based (fun, trail users, scenery, challenge, etc.) rather than only a quantity (length of trail) based approach in the planning and development of new trails. This will allow the desirable qualitative aspects of local trails to be retained.
7. Require that the cost of completing any replacement trails will be borne by the property owner or resource use licensee.
8. Agree to the rerouting or redevelopment of discontinued trails for the replacement trail must be secured prior to final approval of the new land development or resource uses. Cash-in-lieu for trail development will only be considered when it is deemed acceptable to the local municipality).
9. Incorporate the net gain for trails approach into an amenity agreement/density bonus policy recognized in municipal Official Community Plans, triggered in conjunction with rezoning and development applications.
10. Work with advisory groups to identify potential trail network expansion and/or enhancement areas that are consistent with, and can be incorporated into, integrated land use processes, regional and/or municipal plans.
4. Identify potential trail network expansion and/or enhancement areas in each region that are consistent with integrated land use planning processes, regional and/or municipal plans completed or underway.
The Sea to Sky region is under increasing development pressures in part due to the increasing desirability to live in the area (which has been facilitated by the Highway 99 enhancements) and the readily available recreational amenities. The Corridor continues to lose existing trails from land development and resource expansion. In particular, new development on private lands (i.e., Crumpit Woods) and resource uses on Crown lands (i.e., Powerhouse Plunge) have had a negative impact on the quantity and the quality of the
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trail system. In the past year, the province has also entered into agreements with the Squamish and Lil’wat Nations to dedicate more than 400 acres of lands as compensation for highway development.
The trail stakeholder groups and the Steering Committee have indicated that, given the importance of the Corridor trails contributions to the overall economic vitality and health of the region, future trail areas must be identified, dedicated and developed. The following recommendations consider the potential for growth areas through management of existing Crown land trails and expanded trail infrastructure in Pemberton, Whistler and Squamish.
PEMBERTON:
At the area trail stakeholder meeting held in late 2007, there were concerns with the loss of traditional trail networks in part due to the increasing number and new user groups (free riding) in the Mackenzie Basin area and the trails surrounding Mosquito Lake. Many indicated that the wilderness experience is being compromised (particularly for hikers and hunters) and this would be exacerbated with the proposed Mosquito Lake development.
Potential for trail growth areas in Pemberton include:
Mosquito Lake: Continue to recognize the importance of the trail network in the Mosquito Lake area, through the development approval process with the Lil’wat Nation. The area will retain the Recreation Area (lake access) as well as incredible views of the Pemberton valley. In the review of the proposed development, consideration should be given to the opportunities for integrating the trails into the new development by retaining the intent of many of the trails in the area – with a particular focus on First Nations culture and history in the area (i.e., petroglyph). There also may be potential to expand the trail system on Crown lands immediately north of Mosquito Lake (although route finding may be difficult as the area is challenged by steeper terrain). The LRMP indicates that this area will require an “archaeological impact assessment, aboriginal interest and use study.” It is noted that the Pemberton Wildlife Association
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and the Ministry of Environment have recreation exclusion on the lands east of the Mackenzie Basin.
Pemberton South: The local stakeholders indicated that there should be continued support for a trail network within easy access to the village, particularly for short hikes or rides. There appeared to be potential to improve the existing trails above Elmwood – likely focused more on hiking/running. For longer excursions there is the ability to enhance the connection between Pemberton and Whistler, in particular further establishing the Tour de Soo trail to One Mile Lake and expanding tributary trails onward toward the Rutherford to further complement the Sea to Sky Trail.
Mackenzie Basin (west): Many Pemberton trail interests have indicated that this area has the greatest potential for future trail development. It has the ability to be close to the village, offering relatively gentle terrain, early season riding (south facing) and spectacular views. This area, however, has its challenges. In particular the Mackenzie Basin has no direct legal access other than the Forest Service Road as an established bridge over the Lillooet River is required. Canadian National Railway has also resisted granting legal accesses across their tracks in the area. The area also has been designated as important winter deer habitat and also a popular hunting area, which has created conflicts with other trail users during open seasons.
Any future development of the area should have a plan to manage potential conflicts among users, access issues and impacts on the natural environment. The area has also been identified in the LRMP as requiring an “archaeological impact assessment and aboriginal interest and use study.”
Rutherford Creek Watershed: This valley is primarily used for motorized recreation with snowmobiles in the winter and dirt bikes in the remaining seasons. The areas also have potential to provide relatively easy access to a high alpine environment (through old logging roads).
The LRMP makes minimal reference and contains no management objectives for the Rutherford area. This valley is considered to be appropriate for separated motorized and alpine trail (non-motorized/mechanized) expansion.
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Green River Road from the Airport to Lillooet Lake This area has opportunity for relatively flat valley walking and riding, yet has been identified in the LRMP requiring an “archaeological impact assessment and aboriginal interest and use study.” There is recognized potential for trail expansion from this area to One Mile Lake/Nairn Falls Provincial Parks and Mt. Currie trails.
WHISTLER:
The Whistler trail stakeholder meeting indicated a need to increase the number of trails and the desire to ensure a comprehensive trail network for all user groups. The growth areas complement new recreational focal points in the community.
Potential for trail growth areas in Whistler includes:
Alpine Meadows to Emerald Estates: Portions of the lands in and around One Duck Lake and north of the new Rainbow development are to be transferred to First Nations for future land development. The importance of the trail network (Shit Happens, Big Kahuna, No Girlie Man) should be recognized, as these trails provide easily accessible hiking and unique mountain biking experiences to residents of adjacent neighbourhoods. In the review of the proposed development, consideration should be given to the opportunities for integrating the integrity and experience of the trails into the new development.
Jane Lakes/Black Tusk Road/Basalt Spur: Whistler trail advocates are recognizing the potential for new development in these areas. With the development and introduction of residents at the Athlete Village (future Cheakamus Crossing neighbourhood) as well as the new emphasis on the Callaghan/Calcheak areas, these Crown lands are primed for trail enhancement. Jane Lakes provides an incredible amenity while the lower trails will complement the Sea to Sky Trail and the existing Interpretative Forest trails. The varied terrain will accommodate a wide array of trail types offering incredible views of the Callaghan Valley. The Train Wreck area also has potential, yet highway expansion and railway rights-of-way have limited the opportunities. A
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bridge crossing the Cheakamus River (between the Sea to Sky Trail and Athlete Village bridges) may be required to provide a stronger link.
Callaghan to Function Junction and Lower Sproat Mountain: With new trails at the Whistler Olympic Park in the Callaghan Valley there is renewed interest in creating trail connections to Whistler. There is opportunity to improve the existing (currently in disrepair) South Flank Trail with upper and lower routing (considering hiking and mountain biking).
Flank Trail between Industrial Disease and 21 Mile Creek: The Whistler Cycling Trail Master Plan identifies the potential for additional trails from the Flank Trail down to the Beaver Pass/Sproat trails. Although there have been recent additions of expert descents, there is potential for an ascending route from the top of the Stonebridge subdivision to the Flank Trail (in progress but not yet formalized).
Emerald/North Flank/Cougar Mountain: The Cougar Mountain (16 Mile Creek) drainage provides ease of access for the construction of new trails within forestry tenures. Although coordination with future logging operations would be imperative, there are opportunities to provide spur trails from the North Flank routing both north to Soo Valley and south to the 19 Mile drainage. The commercial recreation tenure holder at Cougar is supportive of more trail development in this area as they move away from motorized recreation. Further, the south Emerald trails will be affected by recent commitments by the province to transfer land to First Nations.
Whistler-Blackcomb Controlled Recreation Area: A significant percentage of Crown lands on the eastern slopes of Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains are subject to the Whistler- Blackcomb Controlled Recreation Area (CRA) tenure. Further, there are a considerable number of marquee trails that have been constructed (outside the mountain bike park) on these Crown lands (i.e., Khyber, Ride Don't Slide, BC's Trail, Roam in the Loam, Hey Bud). There also is a clear opportunity to hook up trails within the Blackcomb Mountain CRA with Green Lake/Comfortably Numb.
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It is understood that Whistler-Blackcomb will soon be required to submit a new Master Plan for provincial approval. At the time of Master Plan approval the province should guarantee the perpetual retention and management and secured access of these trails.
Alpine Access through Singing Pass/Khyber and Sproat: The inventory also recognized that there was a lack of opportunities for biking trails to access alpine areas. There is continued support for the BC Parks Singing Pass/Cheakamus connector, improvement and hiking access to the historic West Ridge Trail (Khyber) and trails accessing the Sproat Mountain alpine areas from the Flank Trail. Any such trail development must be contained and sensitive to the fragile natural environment.
SQUAMISH:
It is anticipated that many of Squamish’s valuable trail areas on Crown land may be lost due to pending development. The trail interests within the community have highlighted several areas for enhanced mountain biking, motorized and hiking trail development. The growth areas consider new areas on the outskirts of the community, while still providing new connections to the serviced areas of Squamish.
Potential for trail growth areas in Squamish includes:
Garibaldi Highlands/Brackendale: A considerable amount of Crown land situated north of the Garibaldi Highlands and Brackendale subdivision may be transferred fee simple, to the Squamish Nation. Similar to the Mosquito Lake situation, there should be recognition of the importance of the existing trail network in development approval process. The Ray Peters trail has particular cultural importance to the community while the Garibaldi Highland trails comprise a portion of some of the area’s finest trails and home to many of Squamish’s pinnacle racing events.
Upper Garibaldi Highlands/Diamond Head: There is potential for trail development on the upper Garibaldi Highlands area en route to Diamond Head. It is recommended by local trail interests that this network could be further expanded north- east providing connections to the Cat Lake area (yet
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recognizing the potential of the Garibaldi at Squamish impacts noted below) and include links to the provincial parks. This area has terrific views and varied terrain. The trails should be rolling cross country trails rather than extreme descents, in order that they will service mountain bikers, joggers and hikers.
Cat Lake/Garibaldi at Squamish: The province is currently reviewing an application for Commercial Recreation and development tenure around and on the upper slopes of Cat Lake/Brohm Ridge. The proposal would include a new lift- accessed ski area, golf course, resort and residential development. This area is currently an established area primarily for motorized and mechanized trail users. The province should ensure that any successful development application would incorporate the existing trail network and consider areas for future expansion of motorized recreation on Crown lands surrounding the resort.
Echo Lake: Although at this time not readily accessible, there may be long-term potential to open up for trail development in and around Echo Lake towards Woodfibre. A long-term goal (provincial initiative) should consider the potential to establish a trail connection to the Sunshine Coast.
Murrin Provincial Park/Britannia: This area will be experiencing an increased demand for trail connections as resident and second homeowner development increases in Britannia Beach. Currently the Petgill Lake area contains several hiking trails providing access to climbing areas. Additional trail development could provide a stronger connection to waters of Howe Sound.
There is opportunity to connect the Petgill Lake trail to the existing Britannia Beach road and trail networks where the terrain is relatively gentle with historic importance as well as providing exceptional views of the Howe Sound.
Mamquam/Raffuse: The upper reaches of the Mamquam have opportunities to provide trails through establishing access along a decommissioned logging road. This area could provide motorized trail development and separated alpine hiking and climbing trails.
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An important consideration is the recognition that many trails on Crown land often intersect with adjacent privately owned land. In many cases the trails then continue often without permission. There is a potential (as suggested with the First Nations development lands) that trail expansion be secured through easements or rights-of-way through private property to further enhance connections and the experience.
2.2 Management Issues and Objectives
The Trail Strategy identified issues and objectives for the management of the Trail network. This section of the report highlights the four key Management Issues as Integrated Land Use, Risk Management, Trail Use Conflicts, and Funding and Resources. Each of these issues offer corresponding management objectives. This section of the report directly addresses each of the issues and the directing objectives.
2.2.1 Integrated Land Use
a) Ensure trail management decisions are consistent with the LRMP
b) Ensure relevant ministries and agencies are involved in trail management decisions
c) Adopt standards and procedures for developing and managing trails in agricultural areas
d) Develop a framework for managing trails within the working forest in cooperation with the Ministry of Forests and Range
This Trail Management Plan and other provincial initiatives (refer to the summary provided in Section 1.3.1 of this report and the provincial government’s A Guide to Using and Developing Trails in Farm and Ranch Areas) are addressing the stated management objectives. 2.2.2 Risk Management
The Occupiers Liability Act as amended by the Occupiers Liability Amendment Act, 1998 places responsibilities on land managers and owners to ensure
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reasonable measures exist to ensure public safety, yet there is recognition that any sport or activity has some level of risk involved. The Act identifies the following when evaluating risks:
the existence of an unusual danger the cost and difficulty of avoiding the specific danger the safety record of the premises whether an unusual danger could be satisfactorily reduced or eliminated by adequate warning and whether an adequate warning was given
In consideration of the inherent risk of Crown land trails within the Corridor, the Trails Strategy recommends the development, adoption and implementation of trail standards and the adoption of formal risk management programs for responsible land managers. The following section provides direction regarding risk management concerns specifically related to trail standards and a draft risk management program.
a) Develop, adopt and implement trail standards particularly with respect to TTF’s and signage.
Section 2 of this Management Plan recommends that the Corridor adopt the Whistler Trail Standards (with recommended addendums). The Steering Committee, stakeholder interests and builders all considered the Whistler Trail Standards to be of high quality that effectively mitigate possible injury to trail users.
More recently, trail development has expanded its experience by incorporating technical trail features (TTF’s) which are partially or entirely manmade including ramps, drops, elevated structures, bridges and jumps. It is important to manage the risks of the Corridor’s trail development such that improvements are installed in accordance with accepted construction standards, particularly considering liability concerns. Informing the trail user of possible hazards and/or skill requirements
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through signage, markers and other media can further reduce risks.
With the adoption of the Whistler Trail Standards, the region’s trail network will have a proven requisite to proactively address risk management concerns. The adoption of these standards will require compliance of both new and existing trails prior to authorization and establishment.
b) Evaluate implementation of the Provincial Mountain Bike Trail Policy.
The Management Plan Management Plan has incorporated the directions of the Provincial Mountain Bike Trail Policy.
c) Continue to assess position of land managers with respect to risk(s) associated with trail use.
d) Encourage adoption of formal risk management programs by responsible land managers.
The following outlines a risk management program for the Corridor. This program was developed through input from the Steering Committee, stakeholder interests, trail builders and research of other trail management programs (considerable reference was made to directions presented by Pete Webber, IMBA; Jeff Jackson, Algonquin College; and Dave Diplock, North Shore Mountain Bike Events Society at the presentation made at the 2006 IMBA World Summit in Whistler). The following components should be implemented to manage risks of trail use in the Sea to Sky Corridor:
Corridor Recreational Trail Risk Management Program
The intent of the program is to minimize injury and offset any possible liability issues through proactively avoiding or mitigating hazardous trail conditions, providing the necessary information to trail users, and further ensuring the appropriate protocol and resources are in place to manage emergency situations.
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Emergency Preparedness
Adoption of Corridor-wide Trail Standards and Ratings - The Management Plan has indicated that the Whistler Trail Standards and ratings will be adopted Corridor-wide (with addendums) for the maintenance and the expansion of the Sea to Sky Recreational Trail network. The new Corridor Trail Standards provide safe construction and repair standards as well as other guidelines related to the accommodation of safe fall zones and sign guidelines.
Monitoring, Inspections, Maintenance and Record - In addition to constructing trails that minimize risk, it is also important to monitor such amenities. In particular the Corridor trail initiative should ensure through the SLRD that there would be: annual monitoring of the trail network (refer to Section 2.1.1.4); ongoing opportunities for public reporting of the condition of unauthorized, established and authorized trails to minimize possible hazardous conditions; necessary services contracted to repair or improve any identified hazards in a safe and timely manner; maintained accident and related trail status reports – that are able to inform risk management activities; and frequent review of the Committee’s and the SLRD’s policies and procedures relative to management and safety of trail users, but not limited to trail maintenance programs, volunteer patrols and future trail expansion.
User Preparedness/Personal Responsibility:
The best way to manage emergency situations is through effective communication with users. Helping trail users make informed and realistic decisions in their trail choices is still the best form of prevention. The following outlines how to minimize possible incidents:
Make best efforts to provide trail conditions with regard to wildlife, hazards, trail features and routing, and weather links on the Corridor trail website. Significant hazards may also be posted at staging areas (where it inhibits trail use) and at the obstacle. Implement a trail rating system and post and maintain corresponding signage to ensure that users are prepared for the trail experience.
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Post information regarding unexpected hazards, trail difficulty, trail etiquette, and safety regulations at staging areas and on the website. Post information regarding universal access for persons with disabilities (Universal Trail Assessment Process). Identify the extent of cell coverage at applicable trailheads (yet a disclaimer that cell phones are not always reliable and therefore should not be relied on exclusively). Coordinate with local Search & Rescue organizations to share data to ensure that their mapping and trail access information is current. Post a trail use radio frequency (that may be accessed by other users and Search & Rescue). Develop and post the link to the Corridor Recreational Trail Website. In terms of risk management considerations, the website shall have capabilities to provide and collect from users the following information: Trail conditions and maintenance reports Trail management schedules and volunteer opportunities List of problem trails in need of maintenance Advisories giving up-to-date wildlife, fire conditions and applicable trail status information User submission forum for trail problems and/or conflicts Mapping with trail status in regards to authorization, etc. Trail Patrol duties, responsibilities and job opportunities Trail approval and development process Interactive map Implement the Corridor Recreational Trail Communications Strategy
Emergency Response
Emergency Situation Protocols
The emergency response program for the recreational trails on Crown land should be consistent with what is already effective, accepted and working in the area and the province. In the Sea to Sky Corridor there already exists a fully trained Search and Rescue component in all three major population centres of the Squamish, Whistler and Pemberton
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areas. To assist emergency personnel in the region, the Steering Committee or their designate, should provide a detailed map of the trail inventory including access points, helipads, etc., to each emergency responder, while trailhead maps should recognize that the external point of contact in an emergency is dialing 911.
Trail Patrols
As trail use increases within certain heavily used recreation areas (particularly by visitors), there may be a need to implement a Corridor Trails Patrol Program. These patrols could assist in ensuring that the Corridor trails are a safe and enjoyable experience for users. The following outlines the trail patrol responsibilities, qualifications and partnerships.
Responsibilities:
Ambassadors of the trail system; Promote responsible trail use through providing relevant information and education regarding trail etiquette, trail conditions and the network; Document and report trail conditions that may have environmental issues or damage; Manage trail information at trail heads and staging areas; Respond or assist in emergency situations; Undertake light maintenance of the trails; Marshall during special events; Post information about open or closed trails; and Inform the Steering Committee regarding safety considerations in regard to construction standards, information and emergency procedures.
Qualifications:
Basic bike maintenance; First aid; Interpersonal skills and conflict management techniques; Understanding of local policies and procedures; and General understanding of trail maintenance best practices.
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Partnerships:
The coordination of the Trail Patrol Program will require significant time and effort. Consideration should be given to working together with trail clubs and outdoor recreation and skill development programs provided by local colleges and/or high schools (i.e., Capilano College). First Nations crews have also been active in the area of trail maintenance and construction whereby the work piggybacked with the primary fire fighting duties. The Trail Patrol program will also likely need sponsorship to cover the cost of the patrols.
2.2.3 Trail Use Conflicts
The Sea to Sky Corridor provides an extensive trail network accessible to many different users whether they be walking, biking or on motorized transportation. To ensure that the trail system is effectively managed it is important that there are quality opportunities for recognized recreational trail users. Currently the Corridor accommodates motorized and non-motorized users, and therefore with the increasing pressures on the existing trail infrastructure it is important to understand the potential concerns and mitigating efforts to minimize the conflicts among trail users.
a) Identify and maintain key access routes for motorized users
The Trail Strategy’s Management Objectives indicates the importance of establishing or approving both motorized and non- motorized trails. Section 2 identifies key staging areas while Section 3 and Appendix “D” identifies shared use of the trials (from mechanized, equestrian, or motorized users). A mentioned in Section 1.3.4 trials bikes (i.e. no seat and speeds similar to mountain bikes) are considered to fall in the same category as mountain bikes rather than motorized users. The design of motorized trails should consider the following: Focus motorized trails away from sensitive environmental areas and/or provincial parks; Require signs that provide warnings related to potential trail conflicts, obstacles wildlife and safety concerns. Focus motorized users in areas that have ease of road access; Favour motorized trails that were previously resource roads (decommissioned logging roads);
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Ensure that trail construction practices provide a durable and stable surface; Keep trails away from watercourses and other riparian areas; Create designated off-road vehicle (ORV) parking areas at destinations (lakes, view points); Attempt to provide sufficient soundscape buffer zones to other land uses and recreational users by using the natural terrain and vegetation (note: sound rises); Design trails to discourage travel at higher speeds due to safety and wildlife concerns; Select trails with adequate sightlines; Encourage the construction of one way looped trails to reduce collisions and reduce maintenance costs; Provide parking lot, trailer turnaround and drop-offs at trailhead staging areas; Ensure that soils/surfacing, bridging and any other trail features are durable for the anticipated motorized use; Discourage road crossings and if necessary ensure the necessary safety provisions (signage, speed bumps, gates) are installed; and Discourage intersections with non-motorized recreationalists and non-motorized trail users.
b) Identify motorized and non-motorized permitted trails expansion areas.
At this time it has proved difficult to definitively identify new trails or trail development areas that are appropriate for motorized users. The Trail Strategy, informal consultation and Internet searches have identified the following existing motorized trail areas:
Cheakamus Canyon (part of the Sea to Sky Trail)* Cat Lake** Brohm Lake* Hut Lake Paradise Valley Upper Mamquam/Raffuse Brandywine Mountain Sproat Mountain Rutherford Creek Meager Mountain Upper Lillooet Green River
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The areas with an asterisk (*) are not recommended for motorized use due to future trail and/or resort and urban development – however if the Garibaldi at Squamish resort development receives provincial approval, such uses will need to be accommodated elsewhere within the Mamquam area. Future expansion areas for motorized users are further identified within Section 2.1.5.4.
c) Adopt and employ a hierarchy of management tools to reduce potential for conflict (Conflict Management Plan).
The Sea to Sky Corridor must ensure that the multitude of trail users and modes of travel are appropriately managed to reduce conflict and to maximize the positive trail experience. Most of the recent research concerning trail conflicts has been done as a result of mountain biking. The International Mountain Bicycling Association has published a guidebook, Managing Mountain Biking. Much of this section was informed by the book’s section entitled “Managing User Conflict.”
In the Sea to Sky Corridor, there are three recognized concerns relating to trail conflicts, as follows:
Environment: Continued public awareness of the value of local ecosystems is resulting in an increasing interest in mitigating the negative impacts of recreational uses on the natural environment. In the Sea to Sky region it is understood that to be a desirable outdoor recreation destination, trail infrastructure should not significantly impact the environment.
Safety/Risk Management: The existence of many different trail users may result in inherent conflicts related to a user’s comfort with personal safety, particularly where users share trails and use different modes of transportation (motocross, mountain bikes, horses). The following Safety Code has been developed for Corridor trails:
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Figure 2-7: BC Trail Safety Code
Traditional vs. New Users: The rapid growth of the Sea to Sky region has resulted in increased use of trails. Routes primarily used for hiking, horseback riding and hunting are now sharing the trail with new modes of travel including motocross, trials bikes, mountain biking (cross country, downhill and free-ride) and trail runners. The individuals on the trail have also changed from typically local residents to visitors from around the world. The trail system also facilitates commercial recreation operators and competitive events. This change in traditional use of trails can lead to conflict, particularly if the rules of trail use responsibility are not respected.
A Conflict Management Plan has been prepared that addresses best practices to minimize the potential for environmental impacts, risk management concerns and social disturbances related to trail use considering a Code of Conduct, User Group Involvement, Education, Designated Trails.
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Code of Conduct: The following Corridor trail etiquette code needs to consider all users. The following has been developed and will be posted at trailheads and staging areas: Figure 2-8: SLRD Trail
Use Group Involvement and Trail User Education: The Communications Strategy provided in Section 2.1.1.3 identifies opportunities for ongoing trail user and user group involvement.
Designated Trail Use: The trail inventory identified in Section 3 indicates the trail user for each route. The majority of the trails within the Corridor are available for hiking and biking use, with a limited number available for equestrian and motorized use. It is important, however, to ensure that each trail user has sufficient lands to recreate, particularly due to:
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unnecessary impacts and maintenance costs from concentrated use if there is not a net gain of trails. possible insufficient share of resources and priority allocated to trails to keep them maintained to design standards. potential increase in conflicts between users if the number of permitted trails declines (i.e. poaching of Figure 2-9: SLRD Trail non-motorized trails). Markers
Signage: The sign template to the right has been developed to provide trail routing information, technical difficulty and shared use (yield protocol). More detailed information regarding the trail signs information is included within the Trails Strategy.
Enforcement of Regulations: The Trail Patrols identified in Section 2.2.2 d) are intended to be a proactive approach to trail enforcement. At this time it is not recommended that a trail enforcement initiative be pursued, but rather education, communications and dispute resolution be the preferred course of action.
A proactive approach to minimizing potential for conflict is to ensure that personal safety, preservation of the natural environment and user experience are paramount. It should be recognized that environmental, safety and use conflicts all compromise this goal and therefore their resolution is paramount to a successful trail network.
d) Establish a framework for resolving trail use conflicts or disputes.
The following provides an approach to conflict resolution for the resolution of trail-related issues:
Receive in writing (email) from the complainant the policy or procedure being contravened; Arrange a meeting with the complainant; If the meeting does not resolve the complaint – meet with Steering Committee and reconsider; prepare a written report to the complainant of the decision;
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If still not acceptable, Steering Committee meets with the complainant – referred to the SLRD for a decision; Monitor and get back to all involved interests; and Ensure the final decision is consistent with local and senior government requirements.
2.2.4 Funding and Resources
A major hurdle facing the ongoing maintenance and future development of the recreational trails within the Corridor is to secure substantial and ongoing funding. This funding should not only be derived from local and provincial taxpayers but also from individual users and benefiting enterprises. Local trail clubs have provided significant funding and resources to trail maintenance; however, they are currently struggling to keep their regular programs on track and volunteers motivated.
It is recommended from the management objectives contained within the Trail Strategy, that a formal fundraising committee be required to facilitate this initiative together with exploring opportunities to achieve sustained funding sources through trail “adoption programs.” Further, it is also strongly recommended that Corridor trail fundraising retain the services of a professional who has the appropriate training and contacts to achieve private sponsorship and non-profit/government grants.
Clubs also support the establishment of new sources of capital and resources (i.e., administration and technical assistance) from various levels of government and those businesses that directly profit from trail use/users. In particular, the clubs have a desire to ensure that contributions (by government, commercial operations, tourism businesses, stakeholder clubs and individuals) are proportional to the provider’s direct benefits. The following outlines a Fundraising Management Plan for Corridor Trails:
Fundraising Management Plan
Goal: To raise funding on an ongoing basis to help maintain and expand the recreational trail network in the Sea to Sky Corridor. This funding should come from an array of public, private and not-for-profit sectors. A direct user-pay system is not supported.
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Objectives:
Generate resource and funding support from the businesses that are experiencing direct revenue gains from the existence of the Corridor Recreational Trails (i.e., tour, accommodation and development companies, events and related outdoor recreational product manufacturers).
Encourage contributions from companies who generate revenue indirectly from the trails (i.e., accommodation businesses, real estate companies, restaurants/bars, coffee shops, gas stations, etc.).
Pursue traditional forms of fundraising such as grants, sponsorship and philanthropic donors. There are many groups looking for funding for worthy projects throughout the Sea to Sky Corridor and in order to be one of the successful programs, Corridor trails must provide the type of leadership and cohesion that gives sponsors and donors the confidence to participate in the program.
Dovetail efforts with local user groups to coordinate the fundraising strategy and not duplicate or compete with other important community initiatives (in particular, Sea to Sky Trail and the Trans Canada Trail).
Continue to pursue senior government funding for the trail initiatives.
Pursue website and other publication banner ad sponsorship.
a) Establish Formal Fundraising Committee(s)
In addition to the financial support already forthcoming from the local and provincial governments, there is a strong opportunity to achieve funding from the private sector. The first order of business is to form a Fundraising Committee and to create a Fundraising Strategy. This initiative should be coordinated with the funding sources sought by the Sea to Sky Trail initiative.
It is recommended that the Committee comprise high-profile individuals from throughout the Corridor, which may include
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representation from trail enthusiasts and stakeholders who may live outside the region (i.e., Lower Mainland second homeowners, businesses, American Friends of Whistler).
The Committee members should have experience in building capacity from other community projects with awareness of or experience in identifying funding from both traditional and non-traditional sources. Recruiting for the Committee should consider the conventional newspaper advertisement but also personal contacts. Appointments to the Fundraising Committee should be determined by the SLRD through the Steering Committee.
The first task for the Committee should be the development of a Fundraising Strategy and possible funding sources to be pursued. The Strategy should also identify through the action plan specific projects that require funding. It is important that funding requests be tied to tangible deliverables. b) Work with local Commercial Operators to ensure they are involved in the trail management process.
The Integrated Land Management Bureau (Ministry of Agriculture and Lands) is currently working with commercial operators on trail use in the Corridor. The Management Plan has recognized the importance of coordination with tenured commercial users. c) Trail Coordination Committee to explore concept and establish framework for trail “adoption” programs.
There are many successful trail adoption programs in place throughout North America that assist in the maintenance of existing trail networks. In review of several of these programs, it appears that most comprise only limited, high-level initiatives (more of a trail sweep and trim). Maintenance projects in the Sea to Sky Corridor are challenged with difficult terrain, a wet climate and extensive infrastructure. A Corridor trail adoption program would need to be much more extensive, pursuing not only periodic volunteer assistance but financial resources to retain professional trail builders. It is also likely that sponsors will be needed to ensure that they are protected from any liability concerns of their adopted trail.
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The trail adoption program, however, can be an effective resource to the trails in the region, as it provides a mechanism for individuals and businesses to actively participate in the ongoing care of the trails in the community either through financial contributions, ongoing labour or supplies. The trail adoption program (following a public education and promotion campaign) should be targeted towards businesses that realize the importance or directly benefit from the long- term maintenance and expansion of the infrastructure.
Benefits to the adopter to include:
Banner recognition advertisement on the Sea to Sky Corridor Recreational Trail website; Logo recognition on trailhead signs; Business promotion of opportunities for their involvement in the trail adoption program; and Continued contribution to the quality of the region’s trail network.
Administration of the adoption program:
The Steering Committee shall administer the program; A contractor shall be hired to work with the Fundraising Committee to seek out and secure adopters (commission or fee); Each trail adopter shall enter into an agreement with the SLRD considering aspects such as minimum requirements, contractors, promotion and liability; A trust shall be established for businesses contributing funds to a certain adopted trail to ensure that they are appropriately allocated; and Trail selection and work plan improvements shall be coordinated through the Steering Committee and local clubs to ensure resources will complement and not duplicate existing trail maintenance programs.
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SECTION 3 – CORRIDOR TRAILS IDENTIFICATION, INVENTORY AND APPROVAL
This section provides a system for Corridor trail identification, a trail inventory and trail approvals. The Trail Identification details how the trails will be rated and qualitatively classified and marked. The inventory considers the extent, character and improvements for all identified Crown land recreational trails in the Sea to Sky Corridor. The trail approvals consider both the process to achieve recognition as well as a protocol for trail closures.
3.1 Trail Identification
Communities within the Sea to Sky Corridor and the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and the Arts have all been developing trail ratings and classifications. Trail type ratings are necessary to ensure that the public is aware of a route’s distance, technical challenges and in some cases terrain. Trail classifications consider a value-based experience, in a provincial context.
3.1.1 Trail Technical Difficulty Ratings
There are several examples of trail difficulty ratings systems throughout North America; however, the Trail Strategy identifies the International Trail Marking system used at ski areas as the most prevalent. These symbols are a familiar benchmark for recreationalists and easily communicated.
Very Easy Easy Moderate Difficult Very Difficult
from the International Trail Marking System
IMBA has adapted this system and it is considered to be most effective for mountain bikers but also applicable to hikers and equestrians. The application of this system in the Sea to Sky Corridor should adapt the ratings for the different users. Also important is the realization that many of the trail users within the Sea to Sky Corridor do not typically ride in the region. Although the Trail Marking System for alpine skiing is not universally applied (but rather reflects the difficulty of trails within the participating ski area), IMBA and the province are both committed to this standard across North America.
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The Resort Municipality of Whistler Trail Standards are summarized in Figure 3.1 followed by their associated comparison of trail ratings considering the Whistler Trail Standards, the Whistler-Blackcomb Mountain Bike Park, and the Whistler Bike Guide contained in Figure 3.2 as follows:
Figure 3-1: Whistler Trail Standards and Ratings
Class 1 - Easiest: Fairly flat, wide and paved. Suitable for all users
Class 2 - Easy Gentle climbs and easily avoidable obstacles such as rocks, roots and pot-holes
Class 3 - More Difficult: Challenging riding with steep slopes and/or obstacles, possibly on a narrow trail with poor traction. Requires riding experience Class 4 - Most Difficult A mixture of long steep climbs, loose trail surfaces, numerous difficult obstacles to avoid or jump over, drop-offs and sharp corners. Some sections are definitely easier to walk Class 5 - Expert Unlimited Exceptional bike control skills and balance essential to clear many challenging obstacles. High-risk level. Only a handful of riders will enjoy these rides
IMBA WHISTLER TRAIL WB BIKE PARK WHISTLER BIKE GUIDE TRAIL STRATEGY STANDARDS MAP Easiest Class 1 - Not Rated Not Rated Not Rated Easiest Fairly Tread surface: flat, wide and hardened or paved. surfaced. Suitable for all users. Easy Class 2 - Easy Easiest Beginner Beginners and Tread surface: Gentle climbs The circle is used recreational riders firm and stable. and easily to symbolize trails Mountain bikes Unavoidable avoidable that are suitable recommended. obstacles of 2” obstacles for beginner and Safety equipment tall or less. such as rocks, intermediate required roots and riders with gentle (including potholes. terrain. helmets)
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More Difficult Class 3 - More Intermediate Intermediate Intermediate Tread surface: Difficult More Difficult The square is used Riders. Mountain mostly stable Challenging to identify a bikes required. with some riding with progression to Increased variability. steep slopes steeper grades challenges and Unavoidable and/or with more difficult difficulty. Full obstacles of 8” obstacles, obstacles, safety equipment tall or less. TTFs 2’ possibly on a offering the rider required. high or less. narrow trail a natural with poor progression to traction. more advanced Requires skills. riding experience. Very Difficult Class 4 - Most Advanced Expert Advanced/Expert Tread surface: Difficult Most Difficult The diamond Riders. Difficult widely variable. A mixture of identifies trails and technical Unavoidable long, steep that test your challenges. Full obstacles of 15” climbs, loose physical safety equipment tall or less. TTFs 4’ trail surfaces, conditioning, bike required. High high or less. numerous handling skills and level of fitness Unavoidable difficult courage. If you required. bridges 24” wide obstacles to are unfamiliar or wider. Many avoid or jump with these trails loose rocks. Short over, drop- make sure you sections may offs and sharp look first before exceed criteria. corners. Some rolling into a sections are feature. definitely easier to walk. Extremely Class 5 - Experts Only Extreme Expert Riders only. Difficult Expert A relatively new Most difficult and Tread surface: Unlimited designation, technical widely variable. Exceptional these rides (which challenges. Unavoidable bike control are mostly Highest risk level. obstacles of 15” skills and downhill) would Full safety tall or greater. balance have been in the equipment TTFs 4’ high or essential to realm of circus required. Do not greater. clear many performers a bike alone. Unavoidable challenging decade ago. Full Recommend bridges 24” wide obstacles. armour and a carrying a cell or less. Many High-risk level. high degree of phone with you. loose rocks. Only a skill are strongly Many sections handful of suggested. may exceed riders will criteria. enjoy these rides.
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As evident by the references noted in the chart above the trail ratings have evolved from skiing to trail use, primarily responding to mountain biking and the challenges associated with this sport. As indicated in earlier sections of this report, the Corridor has a wide range of users whether they are hikers, equestrian, mountain biking or dirt bikes. The Trail Strategy has reference pedestrian trail difficulty ratings, as many obstacles that may be a challenge to mountain bikers may not have the same degree of difficulty for persons walking (and visa versa). The Trail Strategy highlights the BC Parks Trail Difficulty Definitions that are determined based on length of the trail section, elevation change and trail type. The ratings are E-easy, M-moderate, S-strenuous, and D- difficult. The Trail Strategy further identifies that the difficulty can be combined with the trail type (Type I through V). This rating, however, is not recommended as it may further confuse the rating scale. For example, there may be a desire to incorporate additional rating systems for equestrian, trail running and /or motorized trail users.
It is therefore preferred that the existing ratings of the Whistler Trail Standards be incorporated subject to certain additions as follows:
Permitted trail users should be clearly delineated (notably if the trail is unsuitable or inappropriate for particularly equestrian or motorized users given terrain and/or user group conflicts); The rating should be expanded to consider certain level of fitness features (i.e., steep climb or descent) that may exceed the general ratings. Trail distances should also be posted at all trailheads. The signs should be consistent with the design included in the Trail Strategy. Signs should specifically recognize trails are appropriate for disabled access.
At this time the trail rating signs have been prepared and will be posted to include only the single trail rating. It is recommended, however, that in the future the level of fitness and universal access be added.
3.1.2 Trail Signs and Markers
The Trail Strategy provides a comprehensive overview of the necessary trail signs considering trailheads, en route signs and TTF warning signs. These guidelines continue to be supported, yet should also
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accommodate the recommendations noted in Section 3.1.1 of this Management Plan.
In addition to the information, routing and warning signs, the Corridors trails would also be enhanced through the recognition of First Nations culture and heritage in the design of the installations and naming of the trails and other features.
3.2 Trail Inventory of the Corridor Recreational Trails
The trail inventory comprises a comprehensive inspection and photographic documentation of all trails in the Corridor. In addition to providing the inventory methodology and findings, this section provides an inspection checklist as well as recognized procedures for the approval of new trails and the closing of existing trails.
3.2.1 Trail Inventory
The inventory (attached as Appendix “D”) is a compilation of individual trail reports for the Corridor. Each trail report provides an overview of the trail status together with descriptions, locations and photographs. The trail inventory commenced in August 2007 and due to significant early snow pack in November was continued to April and May 2008. It should be noted that in the fall of 2007 and the spring of 2008 the trails were subject to considerable precipitation, while later in 2008 the conditions were much drier.
The inventories were initially comprised of a photo inventory, with every important aspect of the trail documented. The documentation includes:
Trailhead conditions; Trail surfacing; Bridges; TTFs; Significant drops; Environmental issues; and Teeter-totters.
The inventory was then transferred into the individual trail reports that specifically reference area trail improvements.
In summarizing the trail reports it appears that although the trails in the Corridor have had minimal standards and sporadic maintenance, they
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are in relatively good condition. The exceptions are several of the mainly expert mountain biking trails that are in poor repair primarily due to frequent shuttle traffic and inappropriate trail / TTF design and construction.
It is the intent that the extensive inventory be available in digital format only (although with an overview matrix) through an ftp site.
3.2.2 Trail Inspections
The inventory reporting also developed a trail inspections checklist to be used in the ongoing review of Corridor trails. This checklist is attached as Appendix “E”. It is important that the trail inspections and improvements be ongoing as to ensure that these amenities are maintained in perpetuity as outlined in Section 2.1.1.4.
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3.2.3 Trail Approval Process
Figure 3-2 Trail Approval Process for Unauthorized or New Trails on Crown Land
Trail User sees need for new trail. Identifies the Trail’s general Location, Class and Type (in accordance with Management Plan and Trails Strategy)
Meet with Steering Committee Designate to propose the Trail for approval and determine if the Trail is consistent with the directions of the Management Plan, Trail Strategy, LRMP, First Nations Agreements and other applicable land use policies
Consideration by Steering Committee OPPOSES Proposed Consideration by Trail based on set Local Government policy or technical issues Rejection or Restart
Steering Committee Makes Recommendation to the SLRD Board to SUPPORT the Proposed Trail
MTCA Consideration Conducts review process to authorize and establish trials in accordance with existing legislation, regulations and policy including agency and First Nation referrals.
MTCA Approval Approval but Dissatisfied with Trail MTCA Rejection If approved, MTCA will Agreement The proponent negotiate the terms of a review of the application may and the local a trail agreement with be requested if the issues cannot government will the proponent. The be resolved with the Steering be notified of the trail agreement will Committee then a formal FRPA decisions. If for a include the procedure for administrative trail built without appropriate provision review and appeal of decisions prior for addressing safety, may apply as set out in the Act. authorization, conflict and impact ILMB may order issues (refer to Section the removal of 2.1.1.2)) and any other the illegal trail special requirements facilities deemed reasonable
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The approval of the trail either through authorization or establishment does not guarantee preservation or protection of its surrounding environment (refer to Section1.3.1).
3.2.4 Trail Restriction or Closure Process
A trail may be restricted or closed due to many factors including damage or environmental impacts or user conflicts. In the event that a trail is considered unsafe or is damaging environment, the Steering Committee should consider whether the trail requires:
Immediate Remediation Partial Closure Temporary Closure Permanent Closure Deactivation
The trail status will then depend on the following:
The amount of work or infrastructure improvements necessary to meet the Trail Standards; The availability of resources available to complete the necessary improvements; The value of the trail to the Corridor network and the prioritization of the improvements; The significance or popularity of the trail; If a partial closure to complete the repair is possible without resulting in undue environmental or safety concerns; and If the trail is deemed to be a serious risk to public safety (close it first, review it later).
If it is deemed that a trail should be restricted or closed the following process should be followed:
SLRD Staff or user reports trail problem;
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SLRD Staff undertakes assessment of hazardous trail conditions or problem. Determines the scope of the necessary improvements and possible costs; SLRD Staff notifies local trail interests of possible closure and necessary improvements; SLRD Staff meets with any local interests concerned with the pending closure or willing to assist in the remediation (this may already be addressed through the Trail Agreements). If a significant closure the direction should be publicly advertised; Given the input received, the SLRD Staff makes recommendation to the Trails Steering Committee on the preferred trail closure or remediation direction; and Trail (in part or in whole) closed until the necessary improvements can be completed or trail permanently closed and deactivated.
It is also suggested that the Trail Inventory be used to develop a “Problem Trail List” in order to effectively communicate and track issues that may lead to trail closures This list should be posted on the website in order that interested parties can access and communicate with the SLRD Staff. Some issues that will place a trail on this list could include the following.
Substantial work needed that may discourage or negate remediation; Severe environmental impacts that can’t be reduced; Crosses private land without permission and disturbs inhabitants; Significant wildlife or agricultural impacts; First Nations Cultural disturbance or disruption; and Non-resolvable Crown land use issues.
It is very important to be able to advertise and communicate effectively with users in regards to these problem trails. It should be a primarily goal, to ensure a net gain of trails, that there be ample opportunity for problem trails to be brought forward in the public domain with realistic timelines before closure occurs. The implementation of a Communications Strategy as provided in Section 2.1.1.3 should fulfill this requirement.
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CONCLUSIONS
The Corridor Recreational Trail Management Plan provides a proactive and informed approach to the management, preservation and enhancement of the trail networks within the Sea to Sky region. The Management Plan provides a comprehensive trail inventory, recommended standards, value ratings, expansion areas and improvements. Further the document provides detailed information related to the management of requirements and protocols in consideration of the provincial government, First Nations, safety and liability risks, ongoing inspections and maintenance, communications and funding.
The Management Plan will be used by the SLRD as a work program and handbook in the development and implementation of the Corridor trails program. The Corridor Steering Committee is responsible for addressing the directions contained within Management Plans, which is made up of provincial, local government and First Nations representation. Further, the provincial government shall work together with the SLRD in achieving the vision for the trails within the Sea to Sky Corridor. The provincial and SLRD Partnership Agreement should be updated to reflect the Plan’s recommended directions.
The Management Plan further enhances the attributes of the extensive and accessible public trail network, ensuring that the Corridor will continue to be a showcase for best practices providing significant environmental, social and economic benefits in the management of Crown land trails within the Sea to Sky region.
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Appendix “A” Corridor Recreational Trail Action Plan Appendix “B” Determinations of Significance for Recreation Trails Appendix “C” Existing Established and Authorized Trails Appendix “D” Inventory of Existing Sea to Sky Recreational Trails Appendix “E” Inspection Checklist Appendix “F” References
Corridor Recreational Trail Management Plan Appendix “A”
Corridor Recreational Trail Action Plan
SLRD=Squamish-Lillooet Regional District DOS=District of Squamish LG=Local Government RMOW=Resort Municipality of Whistler VoP=Village of Pemberton SN=Squamish Nation, LN=Lil’wat Nation, NQ/TW N=N’Quatqua Nation or Tseil-Waututh Nation FN=First Nations INS=In-SHUCK-ch Nation
Action # Mgmt. Plan Task Lead Funding Priority Reference # (Assisting) (Timeline) 1 2.1.1.2 Prepare and Execute Corridor Trail Agreements SLRD and SLRD Staff MTCA (LG , FN Operating and affected Budget interests) 2 2.1.1.3 Communications Strategy: SLRD SLRD Staff SLRD approval and apply Operating Budget 3 2.1.1.1 Approval of appropriate Established Trails MTCA (SC, FN) SLRD Staff 2.1.1.4 Operating Budget 4 2.1.2.1 Adopt the recommended Trail Standards and SLRD (LG and SLRD and incorporate into trail construction and planning MTCA) LG Staff (also make available to public) Operating Budget 5 2.1 First Nations Protocol and Involvement MTCA, FN Operating
6 2.1.4.1 Undertake trail improvements as recommended SLRD SC Budget in the Trail Inventory and SLRD Ratings– apply checklist for future trail inspections and improvements. 7 2.1.5.1 Prepare a SWOT following the Trail Forum SLRD SLRD Staff Operating Budget 8 2.1.5.2 Prepare Local Trail Action Plans LG, FN, SLRD Operating 9 2.1.5.3 Proceed with the planning, approval SLRD and LG SLRD and (agreements) and construction of prioritized LG Staff Trail Staging Areas Operating Budget 10 2.1.5.4 Approval of Net Gain of Trails Policy by SLRD, SLRD and LG SLRD Staff and local governments. Implement Net Gain Operating Policy directions. Budget 11 2.1.5.4 Approval of No Net Loss of Trails Policy by MTCA MTCA. Operating Budget 12 2.1.5.5 Adopt Trail Expansion Plans SLRD and SLRD and MTCA (LG , FN MTCA and affected Staff interests) Operating Budget 13 2.2.1 Adopt Corridor Risk Management Plan and SLRD (LG) SC Staff Implement Operating Budget
Corridor Recreational Trail Management Plan Appendix “A”
14 2.2.3 Adopt Trail Closure Policy SLRD (LG) SC Staff Operating Budget 15 2.2.4 Adopt the Fundraising Plan SLRD SC Staff Operating Budget 16 2.2.4 Adopt Conflict Management Plan SLRD SLRD and LG Staff Operating Budget 17 2.2.4 Implement a Trail Adoption Program SLRD (LG) SLRD Staff Operating Budget 18 3.1.1 Establish the Trail Identification and Rating SLRD (LG, SLRD and System and introduce universal access and MTCA) LG Staff level of fitness ratings. Operating Budget 19 3.1.3 Install Trail Signs and Markers SLRD SLRD and LG Staff Operating Budget
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Determinations of Significance for Recreation Trails
Points are assigned to a particular trail based on attributes known to be of value to both recreation users enjoying trails as well as land managers ultimately responsible for the management and maintenance of the trails.
Category Descriptor Attribute Pts Rating*
Critical linkage High Important linkage or 3 1. Linkage and Community or connection Connectivity network linkage Recognized trail connection 2 Non-connecting trail 1 2. Heritage / Heritage Designation Heritage Designation by OIC High Historic Value Historic Value Recognized Historic Value 3 Natural (ROS: P or SPNM) 3 3. Setting Disturbance Semi-Natural (ROS: SPM/N) 2 Disturbed (ROS: NR/MR/R) 1 High value 3 4. Scenic Scenic features along Moderate value 2 Features route or at destination Low value 1 Very High (>1001 user 3 H: 16-21 days/yr) M: 9-15 5. Use Level Estimated use High (501-1000user days/yr) 2 L: 3-8 Moderate (101-500) 1 Low (<100) 0 Major bridges/ trestles 3 Trail Infrastructure Minor bridges/ culverts 1 6. Investment Major surfacing/ ballast 3 Trail Surface construction Minor surfacing 1
Scope
This system for assigning value to a particular trail is intended to be used as guideline for aiding in developing and assigning appropriate management objectives to trails. Establishing objectives for management of recreation resources must take into account a number of local and regional issues as well as trail value. Often resource management issues are complex and landscape specific. Once a trail has been evaluated, objectives should be assigned based on particular local and regional land use planning.
Corridor Recreational Trail Management Plan Appendix “B”
Criteria Explanation
1. Linkage and Connectivity
A serious of connections within a trail network contribute to the Connectivity and linkages within a network of trails. Trails that link communities to regional, provincial or national parks or link communities within a municipality are highly valued by the public. Points should only be awarded in one of the Community Access categories. Trails that would be awarded points in these categories are typically multi-use, two-way trails.
Community of Network Linkage
Critical linkage– A trail determined to be a critical linkage automatically qualifies for an overall rating of High - Critical linkages within a network make up the very viability of the network. Loss of a critical linkage will isolate a portion of network and potentially render a number of trails un useable or inaccessible.. To determine if a trail functions as a critical linkage consider if removing the trail would result in isolating a significant portion of the network, typically 3 or more trails. Also, consider if the trail provides key access to parks, between communities or to other significant features. Typically a critical linkage trail is a multi-use, bi-directional trail.
Important linkage or connection, 3 Points – A trail that qualifies as an important linkage or connection typically joins 2 more trails in a network and provides a key access route within a network. Loss of the trail may not isolate other portions of the network due to alternate access points but would potentially jeopardize a circle route could isolate one or more trails or may require trail users to seek alternate routes. An important linkage will often be a multi-use trail.
Recognized trail connection, 2 Points – A recognized trail connection typically links 2 trails. Loss of a recognized trail connection will isolate a single trail and may render that trail less likely to be used as it would require an “out and back” experience where a loop trail was previously available.
Non-connecting trail, 1 Point - A non-connecting trail typically exists at the outer regions of a network. Loss of the trail would not impact any additional trails in the network.
2. Cultural / Historical Significance Many trails in BC have considerable value as historic or heritage trails. Heritage trails can be designated by the Heritage Conservation Act. Many
8/20/2008 5 of 18 Corridor Recreational Trail Management Plan Appendix “B”
trails however, have identified historic and cultural values yet have not received the recognition or resources required for consideration as a designated heritage trail.
Designated Heritage Trail- Any trail designated as a heritage trail by the Heritage Conservation Act automatically rates High.
Identified Historical /Cultural Values , 3 Points – A trail that has been identified by First Nations as having historic cultural value will qualify for 3 points in this category. As well, trails with documented non-aboriginal historic value will be assigned 3 points.
3. Setting
One of the most commonly cited reasons for using recreation trails is to experience a natural, wilderness setting. A trail in an undisturbed pristine setting is typically more sought after than a trail the traverses a highly impacted or modified setting.
Many trails in British Columbia are located in second growth forested stands. While these trails may not offer the same experience as a trail located in pristine, undisturbed wilderness, they still offer a highly valued forested experience. A trail in a heavily disturbed or recently harvested area is less sensitive to further impacts than a trail located in older second growth or undisturbed settings. It should be noted that a trail located in recently forested areas has future potential for a more optimum wilderness experience.
Level of Disturbance
Natural, 3 Points - A trail should be deemed natural if there are no significant, obvious and overt signs of human disturbance along the length of the trail. The trail may be in a well established second growth forest, grassland or old-growth forest or alpine area.
Semi-natural, 2 Points – A trail will be deemed semi-natural if the signs of human disturbance are present along the length of the trail but disturbance is not the defining setting of the trail. There may be a number of road crossings along the trail or logging impacts viewable from the trail. To qualify as a semi-natural trail, no more than 30% of the trail should be located in a developed or harvested area.
Disturbed, 1 Point – A trail is deemed disturbed if greater than 30% of its length is located in recently harvested, disturbed or developed areas. A trail
8/20/2008 6 of 18 Corridor Recreational Trail Management Plan Appendix “B”
in an area with and ROS classification of Roaded-Modified, Rural and Urban will qualify for one point under this category.
4. Scenic Features
Many trails are built and constructed primarily to provide access to viewing opportunities or significant natural features. This may include waterfalls, scenic overlooks, natural wonders and cultural /historic features. Other trails are intended to take users through significant natural settings or link a number of significant features. This may include a trail along a spectacular river gorge or a trail that links numerous scenic vistas along a particular valley.
High value, 3 Points- A trail will be assigned 3 points in this category if its primary purpose is to provide access to a particular natural feature such as a waterfall, scenic lookout, hut, cabin or alpine lake. A trail that passes through unique scenic areas such as a deep canyon gorge or old-growth forest grove would qualify as high value.
Moderate value, 2 Points – Trails that provide access to particular destination or en-route features that contribute to the quality and character of the trail will be assigned 2 points. Features might include expansive viewscapes, alpine ridge lines and old growth forest groves among others.
Low value, 1 Point – A trail that does not meet criteria for a high or moderate value scenic feature will be assigned one point in this category.
5. Use Level
The level of use a particular trail receives is typically indicative of the significance of a trail. Use can often be estimated based on known maintenance requirements, anecdotal information or in may require use surveys/trail counts
Very High Use, 3 Points: >1001 User days/ year High Use: 2 Points: 501-1000 User days/year Moderate Use: 1 Point 101-500 User days/year Low Use, 0 Points < 100 User days/year
6. Investment Construction and maintenance of trails requires an investment of time, resources and labour. The investment has often come from non-profit organizations, volunteers, stewardship groups and in some cases public funds.
8/20/2008 7 of 18 Corridor Recreational Trail Management Plan Appendix “B”
In some cases significant investments have been made into the trail which might include the construction of bridges, trestles, elaborate culverts, boardwalks and other structures.
Trail surfacing is a critical technique for creating sustainable trails, minimizing environmental impacts by reducing erosion and creating a high quality recreation experience. Trail surfacing is often indicative of a considerable investment in trail construction.
a. Trail Infrastructure Major Bridges, 3 Points Minor Bridges, 1 Point
b. Trail Surfacing Major Surfacing/ballast Construction, 3 Points
Minor Surfacing, 1 Point
8/20/2008 8 of 18 Corridor Recreational Trail Management Plan Appendix “C”
Existing Established and Authorized Trails (source: MTSA Sea to Sky Resource Data - June 13, 2007)
LOCATION TRAIL ESTABLISHED CONDITIONALLY NO RATING AUTHORIZED Lumpy’s Epic X Overnight Sensation X Happy Trail X Mosquito Lake Loop X Tenquille Lake X Tour de Soo X Riverside/Bathtub/ Smoke a Howie X Creampuff X Econoline X Radio Tower X Dark Forest X Mackenzie Cruise X X Pemberton Creek Waterfall Trail X Valley Loop X Smell the Glove X Strawberry Fields X Sphincter Rock X Cop Killer X Eight Seconds X
Waco X Bob Gnarley X Jim Jam X Mission Impossible X Indy X
EMBERTON Hawaii X P Blood Sweat and FEAR X Meat Grinder X Grumpy Grouse X Ramble On X Moby Dick X Gravitron X Squirrel Boy X Tower of Power X K2 X One Mile X Camel Bumps X Wolf Trail X Log and Rock X Coiler X Mr. Rogers X Batter Up X Freak Boy X JK Traverse X Chair Traverse X Psychopath X
Corridor Recreational Trail Management Plan Appendix “C”
TRAIL ESTABLISHED CONDITIONALLY AUTHORIZED NO RATING AUTHORIZED Flank Trail X Comfortably Numb X Kill Me Thrill Me X Jaws X Industrial Disease X Danimal X River Runs Through It X Cut Yer Bars X Emerald Forest X Interpretative Forest Riverside X West Ridge Trail X Lost lake X* Valley Trail X* Tunnel Vision X** White Knuckle X No Girlie Man X Big Kahuna/Shit Happens X
Green Lake Loop X Cat Scratch Fever X Rick’s Roost X Bart’s X HISTLER Cheap Thrills X W High Society X Pura Vida X Beaver Pass X Billy Epic X Lower Sproat X X Trash X X Train Wreck X Yoda X 99’er X Highline Trail X PHD X Tour de Soo X X Jane Lakes X X Calcheak X X Sirloin X Whip Me Snip Me X X Rebob X Blueberry X* Big Timber X Binty’s X *Crown Land Park in favour of the RMOW **Controlled Recreation Area
8/20/2008 10 of 18 Corridor Recreational Trail Management Plan Appendix “C”
TRAIL ESTABLISHED CONDITIONALLY AUTHORIZED NO RATING AUTHORIZED Jack’s Trail X Powerhouse Plunge X Ring Creek Rip X Crumpit Woods X X*** Cliff’s Corner, Rob’s Corners, X Mashiter, Entrails, Rollercoaster Cheshire Cat X Ray Peters Trail X Cheakamus Canyon X Credit Line X Power Smart X Ed’s Bypass X Made in the Shade X Wonderland X Alice Lake X***
Estuary Trails X*** Mike’ Loop X Farside X 3 Virgins X
QUAMISH Tracks from Hell X
S Plural of Nemesis X Crouching Squirrel X DeBeck’s Grind X*** Seven Stitches X Bob McIntosh X Take the Donut X Foreplay X Entrails X Flat Alley X Recycle X Skookum X Peanuts Wild Ride X 19th Hole X IMBA Smart X Pseudo Tsgu X
Value Added X ***preservation area or BC Parks
8/20/2008 11 of 18 Corridor Recreational Trail Management Plan Appendix “D”
Inventory of Existing Sea to Sky Corridor Recreational Trails
Sample Trail Reports attached:
- Cheakamus Canyon/ Ross’ Rip - Another Man’s Gold, East Infection, Pseudo Tsuga - Don’t Tell Jude - Cheap Thrills via Flank Trail - Section 102 - Trash - Grumpy Grouse, Econoline, Radio Tower - Camel Bumps (Ryan Creek) - Nimby, MacKenzie Cruise
TRAIL STATUS REPORT Sept. 25 2007
Squamish
Cheakamus Canyon-Ross’s Rip MTSA REC#- none UTM:
Zone: NAD:
Forest Region: Squamish Forest District: Squamish Referring Agencies: DOS, Squamish Nation, SLRD, CN Rail
Trail summary
Trail Status: recognized
Experience: The trail is spectacular to say the least although it has been taking the brunt of the drainage damage and debris from railway and highway construction. The views are incredible.
Suggested Improvements- the trail has been identified as part of the STS Trail route although it exceeds the grade requirements. The old bridging is run down.
Environmental Improvements: Water has been a big enemy of this routs and the drainage issues must be dealt with in both the south and north ends.
Risk Improvements- the section with grid fencing holding it in place needs to be repaired.
Usage- Very High
Cheakamus Canyon-Ross’s Rip
Current User Groups- mountain bikes, hikers, motorized and equestrian.
Commercial Tenures- none
Trail Land Ownership- Crown, DOS, Squamish Nation?
Trail Significance- This trail has lots of history as it was part of the Pemberton Trail and the original route up the Cheakamus Canyon. There are incredible views and the scenery is incredible. There has been lots of use over the years and the trail has been earmarked as part of the Sea to Sky Trail
Trail Description- the trail starts off with some tough rocky sections and then flattens out by Starvation Lake. It then begins a tough rocky climb up past the train tracks and hits a much better surface for the remainder of the climb up to Hwy 99.
Vehicular Access Route- the best way to access this route with a vehicle is either from Godfrey’s Lookout at the north end just to the side of Hwy 99. From the south end you must drive up the Paradise Valley Road until the end by the Cheakamus River where it then climbs quite dramatically up the canyon.
Planimetric Map with detailed survey and legal information (may include GPS positioning that we will need to add at later date)
On Site Information
Trail Type- XC multi use recreation.
Trail Rating- Type 3 Intermediate/Advanced
Fitness Rating- 3
Significant Features- The trail has had significant investment in the early days as can be seen in the grade and surface. The historical significance is also important as well as the connectivity between Squamish and Whistler.
Trail Width- 2m wide double-track that can be used by atv’s and other users.
Trail Surface- natural soils with lots of rough rocky sections that need to be worked on.
TRAIL STATUS REPORT November 13, 2008
Squamish -Diamond Head Area
Another Man’s Gold, East Infection, Pseugo Tsuga, Squamish MoTSA REC #: 16135
UTM:
Zone: Squamish NAD: Forest Region: SFD Forest District: Squamish Referring Agencies- SLRD, FN, MOTCA, DOS.
TRAIL SUMMARY – THESE TRAILS FORM A NETWORK OFF OF THE DIAMOND HEAD ROAD. LOTS OF TTF’S AND JUMPS.
Status: recognized
Experience: The trail is for advanced riders and features lots of technical challenges including TTF’s and natural stunts.
Suggested Improvements :
Deal with run-off better with some ditching and drainage management and bring structures up to code. They are in bad shape and some should be knocked down.
Environmental Improvements: Water drainage issues mainly
Risk Improvements: improved fall zones.
Usage: Very High
Trail Information
Current User Group(s): Primarily mountain bikes and walkers.
Commercial Tenures: None existing at this point.
Trail Land Ownership (in addition to Crown land):
Trail Significance: Trails are from the late 90’s and have been very popular and accessible for residents and visitors. There is significant shuttle traffic on these trails and the big bikes are taking their toll.
LMRP Management Zone: TBD
Summer Backcountry Recreation Zone: TBD
Vehicular Access Route(s): You can access trails via the Diamond Head FSR and Ring Creek FSR.
z Planimetric Map with detailed survey and legal information (may include GPS positioning that we will need to add at later date)
On -site Information
Trail Type: MTB Free-Ride
Trail Rating- Type 4 and 5 sections
Difficulty Rating: Advanced/Expert.
Fitness Rating- 2
Significant Features: Significant amount of stunts that are in need of maintenance and replacement
Trail Width: 1 m single track.
Trail Surface: Dirt, rock , roots and cedar..
TRAIL STATUS REPORT AUGUST 31, 2007
Squamish Don’t Tell Jude- XC Free-Ride MoTSA REC #:none UTM: Zone:Squamish NAD: Forest Region: SFD Forest District: Squamish
TRAIL SUMMARY –THIS TRAIL IS A MYRIAD OF RAMPS AND BRIDGES THROUGH A SWAMP AND HAS SOMEWHAT REMEDIED THE IMPACTS.
Trail Status/Quality: recognized
Experience: The trail is for advanced riders and has see n some maintenance but needs more.
Suggested Improvement -none.
Environmental Improvements: improve the ramps over the wetland areas. A smart re-route might be in order.
Risk Improvements: bring ramps
and bridges up to code.
Usage: Very High
Trail Information
Current User Group(s): Primarily mountain bikes
Commercial Tenures: None existing at this point.
Trail Land Ownership (in addition to Crown land): First Nations agreements in place.
Trail Significance: The trail was built with respect given to Jude Godwin a SORCA member. She had nothing to do with it. Close to town , kids love it and a great way to get intensive training in ramp riding. TBD LMRP Management Zone:
Summer Backcountry Recreation Zone: TBD
Vehicular Access Route(s): You can access from many ways along the mashiter area as well as the 4 lakes area.
Planimetric Map with detailed survey and legal information (may include GPS positioning that we will need to add at later date)
On -site Information
Trail Type: MTB Free-Ride
Trail Rating- Type 3-4.
Difficulty Rating: Advanced/Expert.
Fitness Rating- 2
Significant Features: Tons of little ramps and bridges with skinnies and drops of minor size.
Trail Width: 1 m single track
Trail Surface: Dirt, rock , roots and cedar..
TRAIL STATUS REPORT AUGUST 31, 2007
Whistler Cheap Thrills- Via Flank Trail MoTSA REC #: 16136
UTM: Zone:Whistler NAD: Forest Region: SFD Forest District: Squamish
TRAIL SUMMARY
Trail Status/Quality: Excellent
Experience: This trail is very close to meeting the criteria in becoming an authorized trail. There are a few sections that need some work to bring it up to standard and the trail-builder is committed to maintaining it.
Suggested Upgrades
1. Rock Face #2 needs an easier way down as it is dangerous to even walk right now.
2. Bridge #1 over creek is okay now but should be upgraded in the next 24 months.
3. Rock Face #5 needs a alternate line.
4. Rock Face #6 needs an alternate route.
5. Root Section #1 needs a ramp to cover exposed roots.
6. Root Section #2 needs a ramp to cover exposed roots.
Environmental Improvements: See Items 5 and 6 above
Risk Improvements: See Items 1, 3, and 4 above
Usage: Very High Traffic
Trail Information
Current User Group(s): Primarily mountain bikes, trail runners, hikers and dog walkers. This is known as a fairly difficult trail and the access is at least 30 minutes of tough climbing to access it.
Commercial Tenures: None existing at this point.
Trail Land Ownership (in addition to Crown land): Initially the trail was encroaching on the Stonebridge property but there has been a re-route that has kept it all on Crown land.
Trail Significance: The trail is a well built black diamond trail with a few double black features that are in need of some bypass options. When the trail is a little wet these sections are hard to walk. The rock faces and the terrain are covered in moss and has some great views of the valley as well.
LMRP Management Zone: TBD
Summer Backcountry Recreation Zone: TBD
Vehicular Access Route(s): The bottom of the trail can be accessed via Stonebridge Drive. There is no way to access the trail by any motor vehicle except a motor-cycle which are not permitted.
Planimetric Map with detailed survey and legal information (may include GPS positioning that we will need to add at later date)
On -site Information
Trail Type: Downhill/Free-ride
Difficulty Rating: 4 -Expert with double black sections.
Fitness Rating- 4
Trail Description: The trail begins off of the Rainbow Flank Trail which can be accessed either by Function Junction or Rainbow.
Significant Features: The trail features steep rock descents and TTF’s that have good fall zones and are of recent construction. Some of the TTF’s are quite steep and difficult to walk.There has been maintenance on a regular basis by the original builder
Trail Width: 1 m single track
Trail Surface: Dirt, rock and split cedar TTF’s with some very steep ramps and big rock drops.
Average Grade: This is a descent and averages around 7%
Maximum Grade: 20% on some TTF’s
TRAIL STATUS REPORT November 13, 2008
Whistler
Section 102 MoTSA REC #: none UTM:
Zone: Whistler NAD: Forest Region: SFD Forest District: Squamish Referring Agencies- SLRD, FN, MOTCA, WORCA, RMOW
TRAIL SUMMARY – SECTION 102 WAS BUILT TO LINK UP EMERALD ESTATES TO COUGAR MOUNTAIN IN 1992. IT IS HAS RECEIVED QUITE A BIT OF WORK OVER THE LAST FEW SEASONS TO BRING IT UP TO STANDARD
Status: recognized
Experience: The trail is for advanced riders and features spectacular views and opportunities to test yourself. Should not be ridden alone.
Suggested Improvements : better signage
Environmental Improvements: none
Risk Improvements: improved fall zones.
Usage: Very High
Trail Information
Current User Group(s): mountain bikes, runners, dog walkers and hikers.
Commercial Tenures: None existing at this point.
Trail Land Ownership (in addition to Crown land): FN, RMOW
Trail Significance: Trails are from the late 90’s and have been very popular and accessible for residents and visitors. With the Rainbow development there has not been as much traffic as usual
LMRP Management Zone: TBD
Summer Backcountry Recreation Zone: TBD
Vehicular Access Route(s): You can access trail via the Cougar MTN FSR or above Emerald Estates by the old water res.
Planimetric Map with detailed survey and legal information (may include GPS positioning that we will need to add at later date)
On -site Information
Trail Type: MTB Free-Ride
Trail Rating- Type and 5 sections
Difficulty Rating: Advanced/Expert.
Significant Features: Tons of steep drops and rock faces with narrow sections. Views are incredible.
Trail Width: 1 m single track.
Trail Surface: Dirt, rock , roots and cedar..
TRAIL STATUS REPORT Sept. 27 2008
Whistler
Trash - MTB XC/Free-Ride MOTCA REC # none
UTM:
Zone: NAD:
Forest Region: Whistler Forest District: Squamish Referring Agencies: RMOW, MTcA, SLRD, VANOC
Trail Summary-Trash is one of the most unique trails in the area where it was built by the landfill using discarded stuff to built it. It is currently recognized and is in the Whistler 2020 Corps. Area but has been surveyed off.
Trail Status: Recognized
Experience: This trail has a lot of character and follows the Cheakamus River and provides great scenic features as well as technical challenges.
Suggested Improvements: nothing as it is good shape. Routing is an issue with Athlete’s Village construction.
Environmental Improvements: None
Risk Improvements: none
Usage: Very High
Trash Trail Report
Current User Groups- mountain bikes, hikers, trail runners, dog walkers.
Commercial Tenures- none
Trail Land Ownership- RMOW, FN
Trail Significance- the most sustainable trail in Whistler that was built by the landfill as an amenity. True genius and a great example of mixed use land. Over 15 years old and great views of the Cheakamus Canyon and waterfalls. With the addition of the new Athlete’s Village Housing Development there will be significantly higher usage and demands placed upon the trails located in this proximity.
Vehicular Access Route- the trail is never further than 100m. from the Cheakamus Crossing Road. You can go in from either end and there is an access point in the middle as well. There is however limited access to this area in regards to IMPACTS delivered by the construction process.
Trail Description- This trail is relatively flat with lots of ups and downs with technical natural challenges. It has great root sections and features old sinks, toilets and furniture to make its point. It begins about 1km. south of the old transfer station towards Cal Cheak on the Forestry Road.
Planimetric Map with detailed survey and legal information (may include GPS positioning that we will need to add at later date)
On Site Information
Trail Type: MTB Free Ride
Trail Rating: Type 4
Difficulty Rating: Advanced/Intermediate
Fitness Rating- 3
Significant Features- lots of rock and natural obstacles. No structures or TTF’s.
Trail Width- 1m. single-track.
Trail Surface- Rock, dirt and logs
.
TRAIL STATUS REPORT Sept. 25 2007
Pemberton - Mosquito Lake Grumpy Grouse, Econoline, Sphincter Rock, Radio tower MoTSA REC #: none Zone: NAD: Forest Region: Pemberton Forest District: Squamish Referring Agencies: SLRD, VOP, FN, MOF.
Referring Comments:
Trail Summary
Trail Status- recognized
Experience: The trail features lots of big rock faces and drops with some significant erosion and ruts.
Suggested Upgrades: work on re-routes and armouring for the eroded areas.
Environmental Improvements: same as above
Risk Improvements: better signage in advance of hazards.
Usage: Very High
Grump Grouse Trail Report
Current User Groups- Mountain bikes, trail runners, hikers, dog walkers, hunters, motorized.
Commercial Tenures- none
Trail Land Ownership- McIvor Properties, Art DenDuyf (Sabre Group) FN.
Trail Significance Grumpy Grouse is one of the spur trails that run off of the Econoline/Creampuff Junction. Its character features lots of steep and rutted areas with some great views of Mount Currie. It gets high usage and is in need of some remediation due to erosion. Its character features lots of steep and rutted areas with some great views of Mount Currie. It gets high usage and is in need of some remediation due to erosion.
Vehicular Access Routes- Grumpy Grouse is best accessed by vehicle from either the Sabre Gravel Pit or Reid Road through the Mosquito Lake Recreation Area. The main incidents usually occur on the lower sections of the trail.
Trail Description- GG is one of the finest trail experiences in the Corridor. The character of the trail with massive continuous views of Mt. Currie is majestic. The initial access climbs to reach it are steep at the end but then the user is treated to long continuous rock riding with flowing drops and corners that are well built but in need of some re-routes in certain sections.
Planimetric Map with detailed survey and legal information (may include GPS positioning that we will need to add at later date)
On -site Information
Trail Type- MTB XC FR
Trail Rating- Type 3 with some Type 4 sections that have Type 3 re-routes.
Significant Features- big rock faces and drops with some harsh root sections.
Trail Width- under 1 m. singletrack with some trenched sections.
Trail Surface- Natural soil and lots of rock as the feature is predominant.
TRAIL STATUS REPORT AUGUST 31, 2007
Pemberton Camel Bumps/Ryan Creek MoTSA REC #: none UTM: Zone:Pemberton NAD: Forest Region: SFD Forest District: Squamish
TRAIL SUMMARY
Trail Status/Quality: The trail is not on any list. It is a little known gem in the valley.
Experience: The trail begins as as logging road climb up the Ryan Creek FSR and then heads off on some stunning and smooth trails with some rock faces and viewpoints that are World Class. It is at an intermediate level for both fitness and technical ability
Suggested Improvements- there is need for signage and brushing to make this a higher use trail. Little investment for big return.
Environmental Improvements: none
Risk Improvements: none.
Usage: Low to none it hadn’t seen traffic for a year.
Trail Information
Current User Group(s): Primarily mountain bikes, trail runners, hikers and dog walkers. There is also use from trials bikes that seem to have been the builders.
Commercial Tenures: None existing at this point.
Trail Land Ownership (in addition to Crown land):
The trail is a well built black diamond trail with a few double black Trail Significance: features that are in need of some bypass options. When the trail is a little wet these sections are hard to walk. The rock faces and the terrain are covered in moss and has some great views of the valley as well.
LMRP Management Zone: TBD
Summer Backcountry Recreation Zone: TBD
Vehicular Access Route(s): The bottom of the trail can be accessed via Ryan FSR as well as the top. In emergency situations an ATV could make it in as well.
Planimetric Map with detailed survey and legal information (may include GPS positioning that we will need to add at later date)
On -site Information
Trail Type: MTB XC Free Ride
Trail Rating- Type 3 with some Type 4 sections. No TTF’s or structures.
Difficulty Rating: Intermediate/ Advanced.
Fitness Rating -3
Significant Features: The trails main features are the incredible rock faces that dot the trail. There are some fairly steep rock drops as well but there are fall zones. There are great views across the valley and lots of excellent places along the trail to relax.
Trail Width: 1 m single track with some easier routes around the steep rock faces.
Trail Surface: Dirt, rock and pine needles with some amazing moss sections.
TRAIL STATUS REPORT November 13, 2008
Pemberton
Big Nimby, McKenzie Cruise MoTSA REC #: none for Big Nimby McK Cruise 16166 UTM:
Zone: Pemberton NAD: Forest Region: SFD Forest District: Squamish Referring Agencies- SLRD, FN, MOTCA, PVTA.
TRAIL SUMMARY –Status/Quality: recognized
Experience: BIG NIMBY IS A GREAT CLIMB UP CLOSE TO 400M. WITH INCREDIBLE VIEWS AND LOTS OF DOWNHILL DECISIONS ONCE THIS IS ACHIEVED. MCKENZIE CRUISE IS AND OLD SCHOOL DESCENT WITH LOTS OF TERRAIN CHALLENGES AS WELL AS BEING IN NEED OF SOME ADDITIONAL MAINTENANCE.The trail is for advanced riders and features spectacular views and opportunities to test yourself. Should not be ridden alone.
Referring Comments:
Suggested Improvements :
Deal with run-off better with
some ditching and drainage management.
Environmental Improvements: Some deep erosion in steep sandy areas.
Risk Improvements: improved fall zones.
Usage: Very High
Trail Information
Current User Group(s): Primarily mountain bikes, with a Para launch at the top.
Commercial Tenures: Para-Gliding, whether it is licensed or not there is a fee service happening.
Trail Land Ownership (in addition to Crown land):
Trail Significance: Trails are from the late 90’s and have been very popular and accessible for residents and visitors. There is significant shuttle traffic on these trails and the big bikes are taking their toll.
LMRP Management Zone: TBD
Summer Backcountry Recreation Zone: TBD
Vehicular Access Route(s): You can access trails via the McKenzie Basin FSR. Trail entrance is at about 5.5 km.
Planimetric Map with detailed survey and legal information (may include GPS positioning that we will need to add at later date)
On -site Information
Trail Type: MTB Free-Ride
Trail Rating- Type and 5 sections
Difficulty Rating: Advanced/Expert.
Fitness Rating- 4
Significant Features: Tons of steep drops and rock faces with narrow sections. Views are incredible.
Trail Width: 1 m single track.
Trail Surface: Dirt, rock , roots and cedar..
Corridor Recreational Trail Management Plan Appendix “E”
Corridor Recreational Trail Management Plan Appendix “E”
8/20/2008 16 of 18 Corridor Recreational Trail Management Plan Appendix “F”
References
Beneficial Designs. Universal Trail Access Process. 1993.
British Columbia Integrated Land Management Bureau. 2008. Sea to Sky Land and Resource Management Plan
British Columbia Ministry of Forests. 2002 Forests and Range Practices Act.
British Columbia Ministry of Forests. 2000. Recreation Manual, chapter 10: Recreation Trail Management.
British Columbia Ministry of Forests, Recreation Manual: Motorized Trails Standards. 2000.
British Columbia Government Tourism Action Plan. February 2007.
British Columbia Ministry of Tourism, Sport and the Arts. BC Trail Safety Code.
British Columbia Ministry of Tourism, Culture and the Arts. Determinations of Significance for Recreational Trails (Working Draft). 2008.
British Columbia Ministry Tourism Sport and the Arts, Authorizing Mountain Bike Trails on Provincial Crown Land – Policy Statement (Working Draft). October 16, 2006
British Columbia Ministry of Tourism, Sport and the Arts. 2006. Draft-Authorizing Recreation Mountain Bike Trails on Provincial Crown Land: Policy Statement. Recreation Sites and Trails Branch.
British Columbia Ministry of Tourism, Sport and the Arts. Recreation Trails Strategy for British Columbia – Phase 1: Background Report. May 2007.
British Columbia Ministry of Tourism, Sport and the Arts Recreation Site/Trail Agreement between the Province of British Columbia (represented by MTSA) and the Squamish Lillooet Regional District, April 17, 2007
British Columbia Ministry of Tourism, Sport and the Arts (prepared by Cascade Environmental Resource Group). Sea to Sky Corridor Recreation Trail Strategy. April 2008. District of North Vancouver (prepared by Lees and Associates, Bear Environmental Limited and Keystone Environmental), Fromme Mountain Sustainable Trail Use and Classification Plan, December 2007
International Mountain Bike Association. 2006 Trail Solutions: IMBA’s Guide toe Building Sweet Singletrack. Johnston Printing Boulder, CO.
Lil’wat Nation and the Pemberton Valley Trails Association Agreement.
Corridor Recreational Trail Management Plan Appendix “E”
Mount Currie Band Council (Lil’wat Nation) and the Squamish Lillooet Regional District. Protocol Agreement. February 20, 2006.
Resort Municipality of Whistler, Comparison of Trail Difficulty, not dated
Resort Municipality of Whistler Recreational Cycling Plan, December 2006
Resort Municipality of Whistler. Whistler Trail Standards: Environment and Technical Trail Features. Whistler, B.C. 2003.
Shimano American Corporation and International Mountain Bicycling Association, the Economic Benefits of Mountain Biking, 2008 Squamish Lillooet Regional District. Trail Etiquette.
US Forest Service Trails Management Handbook.
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