Rib Mountain State Park is set to become an even greater destination for outdoor enthusiasts, particularly mountain bikers, thanks to the Proposed Master Plan. This plan outlines significant enhancements to recreational opportunities while carefully managing the natural habitat. For those passionate about Granite Peak Mountain Bike adventures, the future is looking incredibly promising.
Granite Peak Mountain Bike Expansion in Rib Mountain State Park Master Plan
The Proposed Master Plan for Rib Mountain State Park is designed to ensure the park remains a vibrant year-round asset for both the local community and the entire state. A key focus of this plan is upgrading and expanding recreational facilities, with exciting developments specifically for mountain biking. These changes aim to cater to a wide range of visitors and solidify Rib Mountain’s position as a premier outdoor recreation hub.
Western Expansion: A New Mountain Biking Destination
Western Expansion area proposed for mountain biking at Rib Mountain State Park
The Western Expansion, already approved by the Natural Resources Board through an amended plan, is particularly exciting for mountain bike enthusiasts. This area is set to become the primary location for future gravity and lift-assisted mountain biking within the park. The expansion includes the creation of four new trails and a dedicated lift. Importantly, this lift will provide access to a top-to-bottom beginner trail, making lift-assisted riding accessible to a wider range of skill levels. It will also connect to the existing Western Frontier trail, enhancing the overall trail network. This development signifies a significant investment in granite peak mountain bike infrastructure.
Extensive Mountain Bike Trail System
Beyond the Western Expansion, the RMSP Proposed Master Plan envisions a comprehensive mountain bike trail system spanning 12–20 miles throughout the park. This network is planned to be diverse, potentially incorporating trails within the lease area, while carefully limiting trails in sensitive areas like the proposed state natural area and Ridgetop Day Use Area. The trail system is designed to offer a variety of experiences, including both “flow” trails, known for their smooth, rolling terrain, and “gravity single-track” trails, offering more challenging downhill experiences. This variety ensures that riders of different skill levels will find exciting and engaging granite peak mountain bike trails to explore.
Multi-Purpose Trail and E-bike Access
Recognizing the diverse needs of park visitors, the plan also proposes a multi-purpose trail encircling the mountain. This trail will provide a non-road cycling option suitable for a broader range of skill levels than the dedicated mountain bike trails. This inclusive approach extends to e-bikes, as the plan authorizes their use on designated bicycle trails, opening up opportunities for even more people to enjoy the park’s scenic beauty on two wheels.
More Than Just Mountain Biking
While the focus for usabikers.net is undoubtedly on mountain biking, the Proposed Master Plan includes a range of other recreational enhancements. Upgrades to the summit facilities are planned to improve experiences for special events. A new nature center within an expanded visitor center is also proposed, adding an educational dimension to park visits. Furthermore, the plan considers developing a small campground and increasing opportunities for climbing and bouldering, diversifying the recreational offerings at Rib Mountain State Park. Even hiking and snowshoeing trails are set to be rerouted and expanded in certain areas, ensuring that all types of outdoor enthusiasts will benefit from the park’s development.
Discover Granite Peak Mountain Bike Trails
The Proposed Master Plan for Rib Mountain State Park promises an exciting future for granite peak mountain bike riders and outdoor enthusiasts alike. With dedicated lift-assisted terrain, an extensive trail system, and inclusive multi-purpose options, Rib Mountain is poised to become a premier mountain biking destination. For full details, maps, and community feedback, visit the DNR Rib Mountain Master Plan site here.. Stay tuned for updates as these exciting plans develop and operations begin!
