Preserving the Character of Utah’s Trails

Preserving the Character of Utah’s Trails

Growing up along Utah’s foothills, I’ve watched the landscape—and the way we recreate within it—change dramatically over the years. As a kid, these hills were a playground. Long summer days were spent riding bikes, exploring side paths, and wandering wherever curiosity led. Winters brought snow deep enough to turn familiar slopes into places to learn hard lessons and build confidence. Back then, solitude was common, and the trails felt wild, rugged, and personal.

The routes we used weren’t carefully engineered or polished. They were old access roads, utility paths, drainage lines, and animal trails. They were rough, technical, and unforgiving and that was exactly what made them special. Those “old school” trails demanded skill, effort, and respect, and many longtime users still feel a deep attachment to their raw nature.

As recreation has exploded across Utah’s public lands, it’s clear that trail access needs to evolve. More people deserve the opportunity to enjoy these spaces, and thoughtfully designed trail systems can provide incredible experiences for a wide range of users. World-class trail networks don’t just serve beginners or experts—they balance variety, flow, and challenge.

At the same time, some portions of Utah’s trail networks have remained nearly unchanged for decades. These trails are valued precisely because they are difficult. They offer technical riding, steep climbs, rock features, and sections that test both physical ability and mental resolve. When these features are removed or smoothed over in the name of maintenance or accessibility, something important is lost.

Flattened rocks, filled-in obstacles, and simplified lines may make trails easier, but they also erase the sense of accomplishment that comes from mastering a hard section. Technical trails give riders something to work toward. Cleaning a difficult climb or descent—without putting a foot down—can be deeply rewarding. Even sections that require walking become motivation to return stronger and more skilled.

Challenging trails also teach lessons that extend beyond recreation. Difficulty builds patience, resilience, and problem-solving. When trails aren’t always smooth or easy, they reflect a simple truth: growth comes from effort. These experiences are especially valuable for younger riders, who learn that frustration and perseverance are part of progress.

The concern is that as trail building and maintenance accelerate, existing technical trails are increasingly being “dumbed down.” While new, accessible trails absolutely have a place, older and more difficult routes deserve protection. Not every trail needs to be for everyone—and that diversity is what makes Utah’s trail systems so special.

Some of the most beloved routes are cherished precisely because they are hard. They challenge even strong riders, inspire others to improve, and offer rare technical experiences that are becoming increasingly uncommon. These trails represent the soul of Utah’s riding and hiking culture.

As trail planning and maintenance continue, it’s critical to listen to those who deeply value these routes. Preserving trail character doesn’t mean resisting progress—it means honoring the past while making thoughtful decisions for the future.

Utah’s trails are special not just because of where they go, but because of how they make us feel along the way. Let’s protect the challenge, the grit, and the sense of accomplishment that define them.

-Jamerson "Jamie" Kent