by: Peter Kaloroumakis

petekalo@medwheel.org

Board Member, MWTA

https://medwheel.org/content/forest-lakes-trail/

In a unique collaboration that fuses nature and neighborhood, Medicine Wheel Trail Advocates (MedWheel), with the support of Classic Homes, has undertaken an ambitious trail building project at the Forest Lakes development. The goal: create a trail that threads through the terrain on the edge of Pike National Forest within the picturesque Forest Lakes neighborhood.

Flanked by the breathtaking scenery of the foothills above Bristlecone Lake, the proposed trail promises an engaging combination of nature and community warmth. Offering about 1.5 miles of new singletrack, multi-use, and multi-directional terrain, the trail will have entry points on Mesa Top Drive and Foothills Flash Court.

The site of the trail is both visually captivating and pragmatic. It will provide residents and visitors with easy biking access due to its proximity to the Santa Fe Trail through the new El Paso County regional trail. Additionally, the trail promises varied terrain, with approximately 200 feet of climbing on each of the two trail legs, and an array of exciting rock features.

MedWheel is committed to building multi-use trails that everyone can enjoy. The Forest Lakes trail is designed to cater to residents, hikers, and mountain bikers. For mountain bikers, MedWheel's expertise shines through in the trail design, incorporating dynamic riding features that will engage advanced riders while ensuring the trail remains accessible and enjoyable for users of all skill levels.

Construction of the trail is in progress, with the corridor having been cleared and preparations underway for tread construction. This exciting development, made possible through a combination of machine work and hand-building, is slated for a unveiling in later 2023, weather, volunteers, and scheduling permitting.

The trail project is a testament to community collaboration and shared vision. Partners like Classic Homes, Forest Lakes Metro District, Trails End Taproom, The Free Radicals, SRAM, and committed employees from Keysight Technologies have all contributed their support. Valuable input has also come from El Paso County Parks and Planning staff regarding the regional trail connection.

MedWheel is interested in connecting this new trail to trails in Pike National Forest, but further advocacy is required with U.S Forest Service to gain permission. Please visit medwheel.org to learn more about MedWheel’s work in the Pikes Peak region and how to volunteer to help build this trail.