Penrose Great Trails Workshop Successfully Completed After Numerous Delays

After more than a year of planning and several postponements due to federal staffing changes and government shutdowns, the National Off-Highway Vehicle Conservation Council (NOHVCC) was finally able to host a Great Trails Workshop at Penrose Commons Recreation Area near the beautiful community of Cañon City, Colorado, in May 2026.

With all the pieces finally falling into place, nearly 30 participants gathered for two days of hands-on learning, collaboration, and trail planning. Attendees represented a diverse group of organizations and interests, including the Colorado Off-Highway Vehicle Coalition (COHVCO), the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), NOHVCC, Stay The Trail, and dedicated trail enthusiasts from across Colorado.

The workshop was led by renowned trail designer and educator Jason Wells of Sasquatch Trails. With more than three decades of experience designing, constructing, and maintaining sustainable trail systems, Jason brought a wealth of knowledge and practical expertise to the event.

Day One: Learning in the Classroom and in the Field

The workshop began at the Royal Gorge Field Office in Cañon City with presentations from representatives of NOHVCC, Stay The Trail, and the BLM. Participants explored a variety of topics including trail funding opportunities, enforcement considerations, sustainable trail design principles, maintenance strategies, and real-world examples of successes and challenges within nearby trail systems.

Despite temperatures climbing toward triple digits, participants remained engaged and enthusiastic throughout the day. Following a lunch provided by NOHVCC, the group headed into the field to put classroom concepts into practice.

The first stop was the legendary Independence Trail, one of Penrose Commons' most challenging rock-crawling routes. Known for its technical obstacles and demanding terrain, the trail offered participants an opportunity to discuss advanced trail design considerations and user experiences. While some motorcycle riders ventured onto the trail, most quickly recognized the unique skills and specialized equipment required to navigate its more difficult features.

The group then visited two potential locations being considered for a future motorcycle skills area. One site, currently used as an informal hill-climb area for side-by-sides, was evaluated alongside a second location near the trailhead featuring open terrain and an existing trail corridor. Through collaborative discussion, participants concluded that the area near the entrance would provide the best opportunity for a skills park, offering greater accessibility for riders and campers while minimizing impacts elsewhere in the recreation area.

The day concluded with an unexpected encounter involving a highly agitated trail user. While the situation briefly became tense, workshop participants remained professional, respectful, and focused on de-escalation. Local law enforcement ultimately resolved the situation without incident, allowing the group to safely conclude the day's activities.

Day Two: Designing the Future of Penrose Commons

The second day began with a group discussion reflecting on lessons learned during the workshop's first day. One of the most rewarding aspects of the conversation was hearing the wide range of perspectives and takeaways shared by participants. Although everyone attended the same sessions, each individual identified unique insights and applications that were meaningful to their own trail programs and organizations.

Attention then shifted toward one of the most exciting opportunities currently facing Penrose Commons Recreation Area: the development of seven miles of newly approved motorcycle singletrack.

Participants were divided into three teams and equipped with flagging tape, inclinometers, and the knowledge gained throughout the workshop. Each group spent the morning exploring the landscape and identifying potential trail alignments that would provide a sustainable, enjoyable, and challenging riding experience.

Following another lunch provided by NOHVCC, the groups reconvened to present and discuss their proposed routes. Each alignment reflected thoughtful consideration of numerous trail design factors, including:

• Trail grade and sustainability
• Rider skill levels
• Water management and drainage
• Intersection placement
• Terrain features and user experience
• Trail flow and connectivity

• The all-important "Wow Factor"

   

The quality of the proposed trail layouts impressed both instructors and participants. It is anticipated that portions of two of the three proposed alignments may ultimately influence the final trail construction plans, providing a lasting legacy from the workshop.

Building Skills, Partnerships, and Better Trails

The Penrose Great Trails Workshop demonstrated the value of bringing together land managers, trail professionals, volunteers, and recreation enthusiasts to learn from one another and work toward common goals.

Hosted by NOHVCC and the Royal Gorge Field Office of the Bureau of Land Management, the workshop provided participants with practical skills, valuable networking opportunities, and a deeper understanding of sustainable trail development. Most importantly, attendees returned home equipped with new tools and ideas that can be applied to trail systems throughout Colorado and beyond.

NOHVCC extends its sincere appreciation to everyone who attended, shared their knowledge, and contributed to the workshop's success. Special thanks go to Jason Wells for his outstanding instruction and to the Colorado Parks and Wildlife OHV Grant Program, whose funding made this workshop possible.

NOHVCC and COHVCO will be conducting a Colorado Annual OHV Training workshop June 14-15 in North Sand Hills. For more information visit our website here.

Interested in Hosting a Great Trails Workshop?

NOHVCC is always looking for opportunities to bring Great Trails training to new locations across the country. If your organization, agency, or community would like to explore hosting a workshop, please contact us at [email protected] and provide information about your location, trail system, and target audience. We would love to discuss how we can help bring sustainable trail education and stewardship to your area.