It is that time of the year when we begin to trade in bike shoes and trail runners for ski boots and layers of winter gear. It is the familiar change of seasons in the mountains, a reminder that as we move from one outdoor adventure to the next, we also take time to look back on the season. Before the snow fully covers our valley, I find myself reflecting on another incredible season of stewardship, connection, and community.
As the days get shorter and opportunities to enjoy our trails become fewer, it feels like the right moment to pause and appreciate everyone who makes this work possible. Our trails thrive because of the people behind them, the volunteers, partners, and supporters who dedicate their time and energy to caring for the places we all love. Behind every great trail, every tree cleared, and every restored section of trails stands a community of people who believe that when we care for our trails, we care for each other.
This year our community showed up in record numbers. Through our volunteer driven Adopt A Trail program, 64 teams hosted 116 events, putting in 3,885 volunteer hours to maintain 122 miles of trail, repair 31,000’ of trail tread, and close 60 unnecessary social trails. That is a remarkable commitment to the places we all love to explore.
Our Trail Conservation Crew put in more than 6,000 hours in the field, improving more than 30 trails, cutting 250 downed trees, and constructing 7,500 feet of new trail. Meanwhile, Trail Ambassadors engaged and educated over 3,000 trail users at 15 high use trailheads and trails. They had more than 100 conversations about fire restrictions and connected with over 500 users at seasonal trail closures to help protect wildlife. They also picked up over 2,500 pieces of trash, all while sharing the Respect the Vail Valley message one conversation at a time.
At the height of the season, we had 26 paid boots on the ground performing trail maintenance, education, and stewardship, while also leading efforts that promote inclusive access to the outdoors. These dedicated staff members filled critical gaps in support of our partners at the U.S. Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management, ensuring that our shared public lands received the care and attention they deserve.
This year’s Soul Dirt program brought more than 600 participants to 50 community trail events, with more than half identifying as Hispanic or Latine. They collectively explored 2,200 miles of trail, and built lasting connections across cultures and communities.
And in its first season, in partnership with Walking Mountains and Eagle County, the Eagle County Youth Corps gave 14 local teens the chance to contribute meaningfully, restoring 7 campsites, rerouting trail, and removing 500 pounds of trash. This program is helping create a clear pathway into outdoor careers, preparing future members of our Trail Conservation Crew and inspiring the next generation of leaders who will continue to care for our public lands.
Beyond the day-to-day trail work, this year also brought meaningful progress on several projects that will shape the future of our local trail system. Crews and volunteers completed key work on the EagleVail Trail and the Quiver Trail, enhanced the Minturn Bike Park skills area, and advanced opportunities to access and experience trails and our public lands. These efforts, supported through strong partnerships with land managers and local organizations, reflect our shared commitment to improving access and ensuring that trails continue to bring people together. Each project represents a step toward a stronger and more connected trail network for everyone in our community.
Every person who picked up a tool this year made a difference, but a few individuals and teams stood out for their extraordinary dedication. Our Volunteers of the Year, Lindsay Brisko and Kevin Lagace, represent the spirit of our trail community and the power of consistent stewardship. Lindsay contributed more than 60 hours across 21 volunteer days, showing up time and again with a positive attitude and commitment to the work. Kevin devoted more than 35 hours over 18 events, bringing steady energy and leadership to every project he joined.
Our Supporter of the Year, Dan Gallagher, reminded us that giving back takes many forms, from hands on trail work to advocacy and philanthropy that sustain our mission year round. Youth Trail Steward of the Year, Maria Papadopoulos, brought enthusiasm, hard work, and positivity to every day in the field, helping her peers stay motivated and engaged. The Cycle Effect, recognized as our Youth Team of the Year, embodied teamwork and dedication, with 107 volunteers contributing 170 hours to improve trails and close social routes across Eagle County.
It is easy to see the numbers, miles maintained, trees cleared, or hours logged, but it is the relationships behind those numbers that matter most. Trails connect more than ridgelines and valleys, they connect people. They are where friendships form, where families spend time together, and where community grows stronger.
Our gratitude goes out to the donors, members, partners, and local businesses who stand beside us. Your generosity and shared commitment to stewardship make it possible to care for the trails that bring our community together.
As we head into winter, the work does not stop, it simply shifts. We are already planning for 2026: expanding the Eagle County Youth Corps, growing our Trail Conservation and Stewardship Crew, and improving inclusive access across our valley. The foundation built this year by volunteers, partners, and supporters gives us the momentum to continue making a difference.
So, to everyone who picked up a tool, packed out trash, attended a Soul Dirt hike or ride, or simply shared a smile on the trail, thank you. You are the reason our trails thrive and the reason our community is stronger than ever.
Here is to another year of connection, stewardship, and purpose on the trails that bring our community together.
