Naneum Ridge's Cookie Cutter Trail System: A Decade-Long Vision Realized
Naneum Ridge's Cookie Cutter Trail System: A Decade-Long Vision Realized
From Vision to Reality: The Journey of Naneum Ridge Trails
The Naneum Ridge trails, officially known as the Cookie Cutter Trail System, are celebrating their long-awaited grand opening on May 16th. This significant event culminates over a decade of planning and seven years since the initial trail construction. Situated just 30 minutes from the vibrant college town of Ellensburg, Washington, the trails mark a new chapter for local outdoor enthusiasts.
Overcoming Obstacles: Community-Driven Development
Jesse Cunningham, the Kittitas Program Manager for the Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance, highlighted the immense effort behind this project. The journey was not without its challenges, particularly concerning funding. With grants being largely unavailable due to the absence of permanent public access, the Alliance's local chapter adopted an innovative approach. They committed to self-funding the development through extensive fundraising and volunteer efforts, demonstrating a powerful community spirit.
Innovative Funding and Volunteerism Pave the Way for Trail Construction
Managed by the Washington Department of Natural Resources (DNR), the Naneum Ridge State Forest's development plan, initiated in 2015, encountered a critical hurdle: a lack of funding for trail construction. Despite management easements granted by private landowners, the absence of permanent public access meant the project couldn't tap into conventional public grant sources. This necessitated a creative solution, with the Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance stepping up to raise necessary funds and mobilize volunteers. By 2019, these collective efforts bore fruit with the completion of the first trail, Basalt Flow.
Collaborative Support Fuels Ongoing Progress
Beyond financial hurdles, the project benefited from crucial support from the Washington DNR. The department undertook significant infrastructure improvements, including road upgrades and the installation of essential facilities like a pit toilet. Furthermore, the Washington Youth Conservation Corps and fire crews contributed invaluable labor, assisting with trail construction and maintenance. This collaborative framework was vital in sustaining the momentum of the Naneum trail system's development.
Diverse Trail Network Caters to All Skill Levels
The "Cookie Cutter" designation, initially a timber sale reference by the Washington DNR, now aptly names the diverse trail network. The grand opening introduces 12 new singletrack trails, spanning approximately 14 miles, alongside a new skills area featuring seven shorter trails. Riders can access the green-rated Basalt Flow loop and Ellensburg Blue from the main trailhead, which also hosts a small skills park. The Cooke-Coleman Crest trail extends access to higher elevations, offering over 1,500 feet of climbing. The network comprises both machine-built and hand-built trails, designed primarily for mountain biking but also accommodating hikers, with many directional trails to minimize user conflict. Electric mountain bikes are not permitted on these non-motorized trails, preserving the natural experience. The area's wild, backcountry feel and proximity to a large elk population, coupled with dispersed camping options, promise a rich outdoor experience.
Future Horizons: Continued Development and Fundraising Efforts
Even with the grand opening, the Cookie Cutter trails project remains in its third phase. Ongoing work includes refining the Ellensburg Blue trail, completing the Hustler jump line, and developing an XC loop at higher elevations. However, funding remains a challenge, with current resources potentially insufficient to complete all planned developments. This underscores the continued need for fundraising efforts to realize the full vision for Naneum Ridge. Cunningham's long-term vision, though questioned by some during the extensive development period, has demonstrably come to fruition, albeit requiring patience and persistent dedication.