LAMOILLE SUMMIT TRAIL SYSTEM
In 2015, the vision for LSTS was born through a collaboration between Elko Velo and the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). It started with a generous donation of $4000 from Barrick Gold and $1000 from Bristlecone Bikes, laying the groundwork for the initial 12 miles. Changes in leadership at the BLM and Elko Velo in 2019 led to a temporary stall in the project.
Fast forward to 2021, and LSTS regained momentum, thanks to a strong community partnership, Elko Trail System Initiative (ETSI). Comprising Elko Velo, Elko County, Northeastern Nevada Stewardship Group, and Nevada Outdoor School, this collective effort breathed new life into the LSTS project by way of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the BLM in August 2021.
Project Milestones:
1. Planning for 50 Miles:
- Recognizing the potential impact of the trail system, and to maximize environmental permitting efforts, the BLM committed infrastructure funds to plan out 50 miles of trail. This allows for efficient environmental document preparation, ensuring that natural and cultural resources are safeguarded before construction begins.
2. Zone A Prioritization:
- Zone A, highlighted on the map, was prioritized for its accessibility and potential for skill development. This is area specified in the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) document due for completion in March 2025 and will be the trail's first tangible footprint.
3. Positive Economic Impact:
- A comprehensive LSTS feasibility study conducted in 2022 affirmed that the trail system would bring a positive economic impact to the community.
4. Grant Funding and Infrastructure Support:
- Capitalizing on the strength of Nevada Outdoor School's outstanding grant management reputation, ETSI secured $178,000 in Recreational Trails Program grants for NEPA approval.
- Elko County was awarded a $75,000 Nevada Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Grant in August 2023. This grant is instrumental for constructing a staging area off Hilltop Road.
2015 LSTS Design
Elko Velo's Vision
A dedicated group of mountain biking enthusiasts, joined by a skilled trail designer, collaboratively crafted the blueprint for an exhilarating stacked-loop mountain biking trail system, blending passion and expertise into every twist and turn.
Elko Velo
promoting community, exercise and bicycle safety since 2005
Elko Velo's activities have included hosting time trials, weekly mountain bike rides, fall and winter cyclocross events, and hosting the annual Lamoille Hill Climb.