Your favorite trail's mud season wish list
As the snow starts to accumulate in the high country, locals begin their yearly routine of digging out skis & snowboards and storing away bikes and hiking gear. Around VVMTA HQ, you might find volunteer manager Natalie cleaning trail tools, or trail operations guru Sammy sharpening the chainsaws and storing the mini-excavator while Shawna tunes the Soul Dirt loaner bike fleet. It’s a period of change for the entire valley, including your favorite trails that are now slushy up high and slick down low, a few clinging yellow aspens quaking next to snow covered pines signaling the that the late fall trail season finally is done.
Volunteers caring for Game Creek Trail – a favorite of many residents and guests. Over 1,000 volunteers made it out on local trails in 2026 and are ready to go next spring!
This freshly sharpened Mcleod is one of hundreds of VVMTA’s tools ready to work on your favorite trail again in 2027
shifting focus to next year and beyond
Importantly, this time of year is also when the organization’s coffers reach their lowest point. After completing projects around the county, VVMTA staff is working to report and invoice reimbursable grants that fund much of this work. Each winter, VVMTA depends on year-end giving and Colorado Gives Day (Dec. 8) support from trail lovers like you to fund the next season’s work. Nearly 70% of all donations come in November and December each year – meaning a good winter for your favorite trail is decided by the community, not a weather pattern.
One local trail lover understands just how important end of year giving is to local trails, and recently stepped up to offer $50,000 in matching funds for the 2026 year-end campaign. Last year, the community raised $86,000 in November and December – and we’re reaching for a $100,000 goal by the end of 2026.
If all trail users in the valley come together and make a contribution, we’ll blow by that number, securing 2027’s work and beyond, allowing volunteers and staff to get to work
Do you love your favorite trail?
We know not everyone will give. It’s only the ones who deeply appreciate their time outside, who care for trails, and who want to be part of the community who steps up.
Is that you? If so, make a donation today – it will count double and your favorite trail will thank you.
