100 Acre Wood Bike Park

Phase 1: Trail Plan

 
100 Acre Wood Trail Plan. 
 
 
Prepared by: 
Hilride Progression Development Group, LLC 
139 Ardmore Road, Kensington, CA 94707 USA 
[email protected] 510.280.5933 
www.hilride.com 
 
Prepared for: 
Sonoran Desert Mountain Bicyclists 
PO Box 65075 Tucson, AZ 85718 
℅ Evan Pilling
[email protected] 928.273.4037 
 
 
Original Draft Submitted: 
January, 2 2018 
 
Finalized on May 22, 2018 

www.hilride.com
Page 1 of 28
 
   

www.hilride.com
Page 2 of 28
CONTENTS 
 
1.0 INTRODUCTION  3 
 
2.0 TRAIL LAYOUT PLAN 3 
2.1  Destination Riding Area and Trail System 
2.2  11.5 Mile Purpose Built Trail System 
2.3  Zone 1 Trail Network - Flow Trails - 2.5 Miles 
2.4  Zone 2 Trail Network - XC Trails - 5.5 Miles 
2.5 Zone 3 Trail Network - All Mountain Trails - 3.5 Miles 
2.6 Trail System Access 
2.7 Trail System Signage  
 
3.0 SWOT ANALYSIS 7 
3.1  Project Strengths  
3.2 Project Weaknesses  
3.3 Project Opportunities  
3.4 Project Threats  
3.5 SWOT Analysis Summary  
 
4.0 DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS 13
 
5.0 TRAIL DEVELOPMENT BUDGET 14 
 
6.0 CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS 
 
7.0 PROJECT TIMELINE 14 
 
8.0 TERMS - WHAT IS A BIKE PARK?  15 

9.0 ATTACHMENTS 26 

Attachment 1: Trail Plan 
Attachment 2:  Trail Development Cost Estimate 
 
 
 
 
   

www.hilride.com
Page 3 of 28
1.0 INTRODUCTION 

This report provides a vision for development of the “100 Acre Wood - Trail System” as a national 
caliber riding destination riding and event venue in Tucson, AZ. Field research for this report 
included a 4-day site visit on May 23rd-26th, 2017. The site visit included various field meetings 
with staff from Tucson City Parks and Recreation, Davis Monthan Air Force Base and 
staff/volunteers from Sonoran Desert Mountain Bicyclists. 
 
 
2.0 TRAIL LAYOUT PLAN 
 
2.1 Destination Riding Area and Trail System 
The vision for the 100 Acre Wood Trail System is to create a national caliber destination riding area 
with a wide range of progression-based purpose built bike trails, technical trail features and riding 
facilities designed to provide a full spectrum riding experience for riders of all ages, skills and 
abilities.  
 

 
100 Acre Wood Trail Plan. 
 
2.2 11.5 Mile “Purpose Built” Trail System 
The proposed ~11.5 mile trail system of premier purpose built bike trails will showcase the dynamic 
desert landscape, vegetation and terrain that the site has to offer. The system includes 3 stacked 
loop trail networks, one in each of the three zones of the park. Each zone will showcase a different 
style of trail and a different style of riding. The trails will be further enhanced with the addition of 
pre-fab and site built progressive technical terrain and skill features. The technical terrain features 
will include: rollers, berm turns and jumps constructed with a combination of imported and site 
sourced fill dirt; enhanced natural terrain features constructed with gravel, landscape rock, boulders 
and field stones; and prefab and site built skill features including ladder bridges, log rides, drops, 
and more. 

www.hilride.com
Page 4 of 28
  
Zone 1 showing trails layout.  
 
2.3 Zone 1 Trail Network - Flow Trails - 2.5 Miles 
The Zone 1 trail network is designed and to take advantage of the open and flowing desert 
landscape and the modest elevation change descending from east to the west. The 2.5 mile 
(proposed) trail network includes a range of “flow style” trails that take advantage of the elevation 
change and encourage higher speeds, flowing trail riding and features that include rollers, berm 
turns and jumps, wedges, drops and higher speed skill features. The 4 flow trails are designed to 
be directional and are accessed by a return trail that climbs from the bottom of the site to the top. 
Flow Trail 1 is an advanced level trail and features higher speed rollers berms turns, and table top 
style jumps. The trail will provide riders with an extended opportunity to practice more advanced 
riding skills. For the initial phase of development, Flow Trail 1 will be shortened to avoid areas that 
would require a 408 permit from the Army Corps of Engineers. See section 2.8 on page 9 for an 
explanation of why this permit is needed in the blue areas noted on the 100 Acre Wood Trail Plan. 
 

 
Zone 1 showing proposed trail corridors in the 408 permit area. 
 
Flow Trail 2 is designed as an intermediate level trail and will feature rollers, berm turns and smaller 
scale table top jumps that will allow riders to progress into the more advanced Flow Trail 1. Flow 
Trail 3 is designed as a beginner level trail featuring modest rollers and berms turns to allow 
beginner riders to get a feel for riding these elements before progressing through the system. Flow 
Trail 4 parallels Golf Links Road and is designed to be a showcase of the trail system as the entire 
extent of the trail is visible from the road. Designed to be higher speed, open and flowing the trail 
will include 10 prefabricated technical skills features that provide riders with a dynamic range of 
jumps, drops, roller and wedges. The features will be color schemed with bright colors to be even 
more visible from the road and highlight the unique riding opportunities found within the park.  
 

www.hilride.com
Page 5 of 28
 

 
Zone 2 showing proposed trail network and central rotary. 
 
2.4 Zone 2 Trail Network - XC Trails - 5.5 Miles 
The Zone 2 XC (Cross Country) trail network is designed to take advantage of the largest area of 
the site and showcase the wide range of cacti, trees/shrubs and other distinct vegetation zones in 
the area. The 5.5 mile trail network includes 4 trails: a bi-directional perimeter loop and 3 directional 
XC loops that enable riders to ride at maximum speed without concern about riders coming in the 
other direction. The directional trail design also allows for the design of the various turns and riding 
features to be maximized for the direction of flow. The network branches out from a central 
roundabout, and allows riders to seamlessly link one loop to the next.  

www.hilride.com
Page 6 of 28
  
Zone 2 showing central rotary system and trail network flow and connectivity. 
 
Each of the three XC trails is designed to provide a varied riding experience that progresses from 
more open and flowing in the beginner and intermediate loops to more tight and turning in the 
advanced loop. The XC trails will be enhanced with many bermed turns and rollers that allow riders 
to maintain speed through the turns, a high pedal cadence and significant g forces. The 
two-direction perimeter trail will be enhanced with 15 optional skill features and will provide access 
to the entire zone.  
 
Also included in the proposed trail system is the Forest Trail, which will wind its way through the 
heavy tree cover and cross over the main drainage on the site with a series of trail bridges will be 
designed as a slow speed technical trail with tight turns, and 10 technical trail features that will be 
designed to emphasize slow speed balance and turning skills. The Forest Trail is sited in an area 
that will require a 408 permit for development, and will not be developed in Phase 1. 
 

www.hilride.com
Page 7 of 28
  
Zone 3 showing proposed trail network and central rotary. 
 
2.5 Zone 3 Trail Network - All Mountain Trails - 3.5 Miles 
The Zone 3 trail network will be designed to take advantage of the existing conditions in the zone 
which include a significant stockpile of road millings and fill dirt covering ¾ of the site to a height of 
~30 feet. By using and enhancing this existing topography this zone will be able to provide more 
significant elevation changes and varied topography than the other two zones. This will allow the 
trails to include some higher speed sections and more dynamic drop style features. The 3.5 mile 
network is designed around a central rotary, just as in Zone 2, and includes 4 trails. A perimeter trail 
winds around the boundary of the zone and includes 15 skills features provides riders with access 
to the entire site. The 3 all mountain style loops provide beginner, intermediate and advanced level 
riding opportunities with many optional skills features that enhance the natural terrain and 
topography. The beginner trail includes 5 skill features, and the intermediate and advanced trails 
each include 10 skill features. All trails in Zone 3 are concept only, and have not been 
ground-truthed or specifically laid out. 
 
2.6 Trail System Access 
The trail system is designed with access points at key locations around the park including the east 
entrance at Golf Links Road and Swan Road, the west entrance at Golf Links Road and Alvernon 
and the northern entrance on Alvernon. In addition to these street level entrances there are three 
access point along the paved bike path running east-west on the property providing access to each 
of the three riding zones. Each of these locations would have appropriate risk management and 
wayfinding signage. 

www.hilride.com
Page 8 of 28
  
Main access point at Golf Links Road and Swan Road and trail access point along the paved bike east-west bike path. 
 
2.7 Trail System Signage  
The trail system signage is intended to provide users with wayfinding throughout the entire park 
and trail system. Signage location are indicated at every access point and trail intersection to 
ensure positive user experiences and user flow. Examples are below: 
 

 
Example EMS, directional wayfinding and trail signage for more developed parks. 

www.hilride.com
Page 9 of 28
  
Example wayfinding for destination trail systems. 
 

2.8 Army Corps of Engineers Easements 

The United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) holds easements along the Tucson Diversion 
Channel and the levees on the bike park site. A 408 permit is required in order to build near the 
channel or levee. Section 14 of the River and Harbors Appropriation Act of 1899 (33 USC 408) 
provides that the Secretary of the Army may, on the recommendation of the Chief of Engineers, 
grant permission for the alteration of a public work so long as that alteration is not injurious to the 
public interest and will not impair the usefulness of the work. The trails within the blue boundaries 
on the map, which signify the USACE easements, cannot be built without a 408 permit. These 
permits are complex and take years to complete. The trails within the easement boundaries are 
concept trails, and will not be built until appropriate permits are secured. Given the complexity of 
the permitting process and associated expenses, concept trails within easement boundaries will 
not be build in the first phase of development..
 
3.0 SWOT ANALYSIS 

The SWOT analysis is used to evaluate the Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats for 
the proposed 100 Acre Wood Trail System. This qualitative analysis characterizes and identifies 
specific factors that are favorable or unfavorable to achieving project objectives.  
 
 
3.1 PROJECT STRENGTHS  
● Progressive Park Planning-​ Primary stakeholders, including Mayor Rothschild’s office, Tucson 
Parks and Rec staff, and Davis Monthan Air Force Base representatives are supportive and 
working in partnership with SDMB to forward the development of the project.  
● Active Community Group-​ There is a strong and involved community group. 
● Site Size-​ The size of the bike park site is large enough to create a full spectrum trail system 
that will attract riders from around the region.  
● Site Terrain-​ The dynamic desert terrain and vegetation are well suited for the creation of a 
challenging, interesting and accessible trail system. 
● Natural Experience-​ The bike park site contains significant opportunities for users to recreate in 
a natural setting with native desert vegetation and views of surrounding mountain ranges. 

www.hilride.com
Page 10 of 28
 Users will experience a true outdoor experience in the center of metro Tucson.. 
● Existing Site Usage-​ The current site is not being used for any other active use recreational 
activities. Due to the proximity to DMAFB, the site has extremely limited potential for other 
development. 
● Site Location:​ The site is located right in the middle of the Tucson metro area and provides 
convenient access for local residents. Additionally, the Aviation Bike Path runs through the site, 
allowing for convenient bike access. 
● Environmental and Cultural Resources -​ the site has been surveyed and has been found to not 
contain any significant natural or cultural resources that would require mitigation.  

 
Trail access point on Golf Links Road and Swan road, trailhead entrance, paved east-west bike path.  
 
3.2 PROJECT WEAKNESSES 
● Site Elevation Profile-​ The site does have interesting terrain, but the overall elevation change is 
less than ~20 feet, which limits the potential for extended gravity style downhill and flow trails.  
● Funding-​ Funding for construction has not been identified, and extensive community 
fundraising will be required. 
● Flood Plain, Flood Control- ​As the site is in a natural flood plain and is actively used as flood 
control there are a number of constraints for development, including USACE easements that 
would require a 408 permit to build trails. 
● Lack of existing onsite parking and vehicle access - ​There is no existing parking onsite or easy 
vehicle access. The Master Plan calls for on-site parking 
● Limited Lease-​ the City currently only has a 5-year lease on the property with Davis Monthan 
Air Force Base.   

 
Examples of jumps, berms and riding trails that have been developed onsite over the years by local riders without 
authorization. 
 
3.3 PROJECT OPPORTUNITIES 
● Events and Programming-​ The ability to have large events, coaching, clinics, etc. in the park 
provides a tremendous opportunity for revenue generation. 
● Volunteer Support-​ The huge interest from the cycling community demonstrates an opportunity 
to have large-scale volunteer days to help with the construction and ongoing maintenance of 

www.hilride.com
Page 11 of 28
 the park. 
● Local Rider Development-​ The size and scale of the facility and the opportunity to create a 
dynamic progressive park will result in young riders becoming highly skilled and it will 
potentially produce professional-level riders in the long term. 
● Youth Engagement and Mentoring-​ The opportunities for youth to take an active role in building 
and maintaining a park they will ride is a powerful and empowering experience. Further, the 
opportunity for youth to be outside digging in the dirt creates a powerful connection with the 
natural environment and the outside world.  
● Access to Soil and Millings Stockpiles- ​A source of appropriate stockpiled soil and other 
potential construction materials has been identified in zone 3. As soil is typically the largest 
single line item a bike park budget, this is a tremendous benefit. Final availability and suitability 
will need to be confirmed prior to using soil and/or millings 
● Riparian Area Restoration - the opportunity to cleanup and improve riparian habitats onsite that 
are in terrible condition. 
 

 
Project partners from Davis Monthan Air Force Base and Sonoran Desert Mountain Bicyclists and City of Tuscon Parks, 
Existing site conditions road debris, trash and abandoned infrastructure. 
 
3.4 PROJECT THREATS/ CHALLENGES 
● Homeless Encampments-​ The site has been occupied by homeless encampments for many 
years, leading to build of trash, debris, human waste and create safety concerns for park users. 
● Arson-​ there have been a number of arson events on the site suspected to be the results of 
youth in the area. Continued arson would degrade the natural environment at the site and 
potentially destroy bike features and infrastructure. 
● Vandalism -​ the site is not fenced and some areas are not visible from the surrounding streets 
and roads. The overall acreage and topography of the site will present security challenges, and 
there is a risk of vandalism to trail features, signage, and other facilities. Engagement with, and 
support from, the local community (especially the local youth population) will be crucial in 
preventing incidents of vandalism.. 
● Un-sanctioned use of the site- ​without sanctioned, active use and users on the site 
unsanctioned uses including off road vehicles, ATVs, homeless encampments, ect. will likely 
keep occuring.  
 

www.hilride.com
Page 12 of 28
  
Homeless encampments, special permitting areas and site trash and debris. 
 
 
3.5 SWOT ANALYSIS SUMMARY 
The project meets the most important criteria for successful development, with the biggest strength 
being the site’s size and interesting and varied natural environment and terrain. The primary 
weakness of the project is a lack of identified funding. The largest threat to the project is the 
necessary cleanup and preparation of the site prior to construction and active use. The biggest 
opportunity is to be able engage the powerful community support for the project in order to create 
a national-caliber riding destination and hub for the local and regional cycling communities.  
 
4.0 CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS 
The need for a bike park facility in the City of Tucson has been identified by local riders and 
community members, the 100 Acre Wood Site has been identified as an ideal site.  
 
The 2012 US Census data estimates the population for: City of Tucson 520K; Tuscon County 980K; 
Pima County 1.02M; and Arizona 6.93M. According to the Outdoor Foundation 2013 Outdoor 
Recreation Participation Report, participation in off-road cycling which includes mountain biking 
and BMX by Americans ages six and older is 3.5% of the population which suggests close to 
20,000 riders in the City of Tucson, 35K in the and more than 240,000 statewide. The size of the 
Tucson community, the estimated size of the local riding population and the limited number of 
public and accessible comparable bike park facilities suggest that the need for a bike park facility 
of this nature, that provides varied progression-based experiences for a wide range of riders, is 
significant and the potential user group that would be served by this facility is large.   
 

Off-Road Cycling Participants

Percentage
Area Population Size Total Riders
Participation
City of Tucson 520,000 0.035 18200

Tucson Metro Area 980,000 0.035 34300

Pima County 1,020,000 0.035 35700

Arizona 6,930,000 0.035 242550
 
Based on the criteria evaluated, it is evident that the proposed bike park would be a regional draw 
serving the entire County, and would attract riders from across the state creating revenue 

www.hilride.com
Page 13 of 28
opportunities that could be used to support the operations and funding of the second phase of the 
project.   
 
Additionally, a bike park at this location would create new recreational opportunities within the city 
limits, could be implemented in the near-term as the site is near ready for construction and would 
displace existing negative uses. There would be many opportunities to work with the enthusiastic 
local riding community, committed volunteer builders and local businesses to offset the costs of 
both the construction and ongoing maintenance and operations of the park. Given that it will be 
developed to be a regional destination, there would also be opportunities to partner with event 
promoters, coaches, instructors, and professional riders to help fund park construction, sponsor 
work parties, host special events and provide programs that would support the park on an ongoing 
basis. 
 
The opportunity to develop a facility that could become a premiere bike park in the region, state 
and on a national level destination is tremendous. The bike park could become the most unique 
public riding venue in Tucson with the capacity to run camps, coaching and instruction programs, 
races, competitions, and special events that would provide many opportunities to generate revenue 
to support bike park operations.  
 
5.0 DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS  
The trail plan and the on the ground flagging of the trail corridors are ready to be constructed and 
should be developed first. Once the trail corridors have been established construction and 
installation of the technical trail features should be implemented and field fit based on the 
completed trail corridors. The signage system should be implemented at each stage of trail 
development in order to encourage active and ideal use. And upon completion of each section it is 
recommended to have a soft opening and ribbon cutting that can be promoted by the local media 
to build momentum and support for the project as it is developed. 
 
6.0 TRAIL DEVELOPMENT BUDGET 
The total trail development budget for the construction of the trail system, skills features and the 
implementation of the signage system is estimated at $231,545, with phasing of the Zone 1 trails at 
$48,420, Zone 2 trails at $86,045 and Zone 3 trails at $97,080. This budget is based on competitive 
costing for the construction of similar trail and facilities in the area and includes a hybrid 
construction approach utilizing both volunteer and contracted trail builders. 
 
TRAILS AND
SKILL TOTAL
ZONE TRAILS SKILL SIGNAGE
FEATURES COST
FEATURES
ZONE 1 $27,720 $15,000 $42,720 $5,700 $48,420
ZONE 2 $47,520 $34,000 $81,520 $4,525 $86,045
ZONE 3 $36,960 $52,500 $89,460 $7,620 $97,080
TRAIL SYSTEM $112,200 $101,500 $213,700 $17,845 $231,545
 
Construction cost estimate. 

www.hilride.com
Page 14 of 28
  
  
7.0 PROJECT TIMELINE 
 
Timeline For Development 
Phase 1 of bike park development will take approximately 18 months to complete, including 
fundraising and promotion of the project. The Master Plan, Phase 1 Trails Plan, and Development 
Agreement will go to Mayor and Council for approval in May or June 2018. In summer 2018, SDMB 
staff and volunteers will work with City of Tucson staff to develop a fundraising strategy and 
marketing materials. In October 2018 SDMB, City of Tucson, and Davis Monthan Air Force Base 
representatives will hold a press conference to kick off construction, and construction of the Phase 
1 trails will take place in late 2018 and throughout 2019. 
 

 
Field based trail corridor flagging and layout. 
Project Phasing 
The proposed construction phasing for the project includes three phases with the development of 
Zone 1, and Zone 2, then Zone 3 trail networks. ​(See cost estimate for phasing details.) 
 
Phase 2 of bike park development will include construction of the parking lot and related amenities 
and the central skills area including dirt jumps, pump tracks, children’s area, and expo area (see 
Master Plan). The phase 2 timeline will be dependent on fundraising, but will likely not start until 
2020 at the earliest.  
 
 

www.hilride.com
Page 15 of 28
 
8.0 TERMS - WHAT IS A BIKE PARK? 
 
A typical bike park facility generally includes a mix of riding elements for beginner, intermediate, 
advanced and expert level riders including: pump tracks, dirt jumps, flow trails, elevated trails and 
specific riding features such as drop progressions, wall rides, radar dishes, box jumps, etc. to 
provide riders with exciting and challenging riding experiences. Bike parks may also include kids 
areas, short track cross-country loops, observed trials areas, speed trials areas and more. The 
design of the bike park and what type of features are included in the design depend on landowner 
goals, facility size, available funding, and community input.  
 
A SAFE AND LEGAL PLACE TO RIDE… 
● Bike parks give riders a place they can call home and enjoy their sport. 
● Bike parks encourage families to exercise together. 
● Bike parks reduce the amount of illegal jump building in communities. 
● Formally planned bike parks are designed and built to be safe and offer progressive riding 
experiences. They can also be properly managed to ensure riders of all ages and abilities can 
safely learn new riding skills. 
 
A HUB FOR THE CYCLING COMMUNITY… 
Bike parks offer many opportunities for programming, from youth rider camps, to professional 
coaching, instruction and training programs, special events such as bike demos, races, jump jams, 
competitions, festivals, etc. making it a hub for the cycling community. 
 
A PLACE TO PRACTICE AND ACQUIRE NEW SKILLS… 
● Bike parks encourage riding skills for better, safer riders. 
● Whole families can use together. 
● Bike parks can host clinics and skills development programming. 
  
PROGRESSIVE… 
Skills progression is the most important aspect in designing dynamic, long-term and safe bike 
parks. These facilities should be attractive to all levels of users from novice to advanced. And, they 
should be designed to promote a community of learning and advancement while providing safe, fun 
and exciting experiences.   
 
A.1 TYPES OF RIDING FACILITIES 
Features found in a bike park can vary greatly depending on the size and goals of the facility. The 
following are typical riding elements: 
 
KIDS AREAS 

www.hilride.com
Page 16 of 28
  
Parents with their kids at Gallup Bike Park and North Valley Bike Park, New Mexico 
 
Kids areas provide novice riders, parents, and coaches with a focused area to learn, and practice 
basic bike riding skills; balance, pedaling, turning, and stopping. This area is designed specifically 
to accommodate group coaching and skills instruction and includes interpretive signage to help 
riders develop their skills. 

 
Kids pump track in San Jose, CA 
 
Kids Track- ​A kids track includes small pumps, rollers and berm features allowing riders to get the 
basic feel of pumping and turning. 
  
PUMP TRACKS 

 
Beginner/Intermediate Pump Track – Advanced Pump Track 

www.hilride.com
Page 17 of 28
Pump Tracks-​ Pump tracks are currently one of the fastest growing types of bike park features in 
popularity. Many parks even have separate pump tracks for beginner, intermediate and advanced 
levels riders. Pump tracks usually include a start hill, a series of rollers or pumps that flow into deep 
90º and 180º berm turns, with various roller style jumps, table top jumps and sometimes wall rides. 
Pump tracks provide a very unique type of riding experience that appeals to a wide range of riders. 
Riding a pump requires a tremendous amount of focus, concentration and intensity, as riders do 
not actually pedal their bikes. A rider generates forward momentum by shifting their weight fore and 
aft on the bike, i.e. “pumping”. Technically, riders are taking advantage of the “force of angular 
momentum”. The high quality workout and the skill development that riding a pump track provides, 
in a low risk format, makes these features one of the best ways to practice, train and develop new 
skills. 
 
SKILLS PROGRESSION ZONE 

 
Practice skills area in Green River Bike Park, WY; father and son, sisters. 
 
Skills zones provide focused areas, and specific features to practice and develop riding skills. Skill 
zones allow for opportunities to watch and learn from other riders. 
 

 
Elevated trails area in Woodward Mountain Bike Park, CA and North Valley Bike Park, NM. 
 
Elevated trail features provide riders with technical challenges that require precise, slow speed bike 
handling skills; balancing, pedaling, turning, braking, and accelerating. Elevated trails that provide a 
range of progression for beginner through advanced level riders are the most successful. Elevated 
trails can be designed to have a tremendous amount of technical difficulty with very low risk when 
they are kept low to the ground. 
  

www.hilride.com
Page 18 of 28
  
Trials Zones at Woodward Mountain Bike Park, CA 
 
Trials Areas- ​Trials riding is a discipline of mountain biking that focuses on balance, controlled 
braking and bike handling skills over obstacles, both natural and manmade. 
 
CROSS COUNTY (XC) TRAILS 

 
XC Loop Trail – Practice Loop Trail with optional skills features, Green River Bike Park, WY  
 
Loop Trails​- Loop trails should provide an easy way for riders, especially first time visitors to the 
park, to navigate and preview each of the different riding areas and warm up before they start their 
day of riding. For beginner level riders, the loop trail should provide the easiest, most approachable 
trail experience in the park. 
  

 
Return trail at Park City, UT Bike Park 
 
Return Trails- ​A return trail provides riders with the most direct route back to the start of the line or 

www.hilride.com
Page 19 of 28
trail. Ideally, riders are able to watch other riders and scout out their lines as they return to the start 
area. 
Connector Trails-​ Connector trails are designed to provide clear sight lines, passing lanes, and 
safe merging for users of the gravity trails. 
 
DIRT JUMPS 

 
Dirt Jumps at Woodward Bike Park and Elk Grove Bike Park, CA 
 
Dirt jumps are one of the most desired bike park elements. Riders in every community across the 
country seek out opportunities to gain experience riding dirt jumps and developing their jumping 
skills. Providing dirt jumps in a formalized bike park facility allows for the creation of safer “table 
top” style jumps and a logical progression from smaller to larger sized jumps for riders to gain 
experience and build their skills in an incremental way. Typically, a dirt jump area will include a start 
hill, multiple small medium and large jump lines, and a return trail to get back to the top of the start 
hill. Riding dirt jumps takes a tremendous amount of concentration and skill, riders typically ride or 
“session” dirt jumps for hours at a time working on perfecting specific skills or tricks. More 
advanced dirt jump lines that are spaced closer together are called “rhythm sections”. The closer 
spacing of the jumps in a “rhythm section” allow a rider to use the momentum from the landing of 
one jump to carry speed into the next one and execute a series of jumps in sequence. 
  
FLOW TRAILS 

 
Flow trails at Gallup Brickyard Bike Park, NM. 
 
A flow trail is designed for maximum flow and minimal breaking that uses grade, turns and features 
to maintain moderate speeds. Flow trails typically include a start hill, flowing berm turns, rollers, 
jumps, rhythm sections, drops, wall rides and more. In larger parks, flow trails provide riders with a 
more extended trial-type experience. Flow trails provide riders with the opportunity to develop a 

www.hilride.com
Page 20 of 28
wide range of skills such as pedaling, jumping, turning, pumping, and trail riding skills. 
 
DUAL SLALOM 

 
Dual Slalom Track at Sea Otter Classic Event, Monterey, CA. 
 
Dual slalom tracks are designed with two parallel 6-foot wide tracks that are designed to provide 
riders with the opportunity to race side-by-side against another rider but on separate tracks. Dual 
slalom tracks include berm turns, rollers, roller jumps, table top and hip jumps, rhythm sections and 
more.  
 
 
FREERIDE TRAILS 

 
Freeride style riding. 
 
Freeride trails usually involves large drops, jumps, and man-made stunts. ​These trails provides the 
opportunity for riders to take creative lines and take advantage of the natural landscape and hill 
slope to provide for landing transitions. 
 
AMENITIES 
A well-designed bike park not only includes riding features, but also amenities than reinforce 
positive experiences at the facility. These amenities can include benches, bike racks, bike tool 
stations, bike wash stations, interpretive signage, shade structures, etc. 
 
A.2 USERS AND USAGE 
Bike park users include both the major categories of BMX and mountain biking. And, within each of 

www.hilride.com
Page 21 of 28
those categories there are many subcategories, for example, in BMX there is: racing, park, vert, 
freestyle, dirt jumping, etc. and in mountain biking there is: cross country, downhill, freeride, dual 
slalom, trials, etc..  
 
The overall size of the facility, the types of riding features and elements, and the design of the park 
will determine the type and number of riders that will use the park. Typically, peak use for most 
public bike parks is after school/work on weekdays and all day on weekends. Depending on the 
number of riders in the local community, proximity and access to the park, average daily ridership 
for a small park (1-2 acres) could range from 1-50 riders per weekday and up to 150 riders per 
weekend. Ridership at a larger park (5+ acres) may be between 1-100 riders per weekday with 
weekend ridership increasing to 150-300 riders. Bike parks developed as regional destinations that 
include terrain park elements as well as purpose built trail systems may have ridership up to 150 
per weekday and weekend ridership up to 600-1000 riders with the capability of hosting larger 
stage events with the capacity to hold up to 2,500 attendees. 
 
 
A.3 TERMS 
 
PREFABRICATED RIDING FEATURES - ​Prefabricated riding features are riding features that can 
be pre-ordered, shipped to and installed in a bike park. They are pre-designed and engineered and 
come with a product warranty. Prefabricated features include wooden elevated skills features, 
wooden and concrete jump ramps, pump track features, entire pump tracks and even cattle guard 
rollovers. Prefabricated riding features are typically more expensive to install than site-built skills 
features, however their lifespan is longer and they require less maintenance. 
 
 
PUMP TRACK TERMS 
Anatomy of a Pump Track-​ A basic pump track generally consists of a small start hill, and a series 
of roller pumps, jumps, and berm turns that create a circuit. The tracks can generally be ridden in 
both directions and might have multiple line options, multiple lanes or both to provide lots of 
variation in a compact riding area. 
Pump Track Start Hill-​ A pump track start hill is generally less than (5) feet high as the speed of 
the pump track itself is limited by the ability to generate speed through pumping the terrain. The 
start hill should be large enough to accommodate several riders at the same time as riders will tend 
to socialize, rest and queue up on the start hill area. The start hill area should also provide an area 
for interpretive signage that explains to riders how to properly ride the track.  
Pump Track Rollers-​ A roller is a mound of dirt that is smoothed and shaped to create a rounded 
roller/pump. Riders are able to generate forward momentum by pumping over the roller features 
taking advantage of “the force of angular momentum”. Smaller rollers might be (6-12”) and larger 
rollers close to (3-4’) in height. Spacing between rollers can vary from (10-20’) depending upon the 
style of the track. Generally a 1’ high roller allows a rider to roll 10’ forward. 
Pump Track Jumps-​ A pump track jump is generally a bit smaller than a dirt jump as the speed of 
a pump track is generally slower than a jump line. Pump track jumps are generally roller style table 
top or camel back style jumps that allow riders to either jump or pump over them providing more 
options. 
Pump Track Berms-​ A pump track berm can vary in radius, steepness, and height depending on 
the style of the track. Generally beginner pump track berms are wider diameter and less steep than 
the berms in more advanced tracks. As the tracks get more advanced, they get faster and the 
berms become steeper and tighter allowing riders to pump through them and generate even more 
speed and power. Wider diameter berms can be designed with high centers to provide additional 

www.hilride.com
Page 22 of 28
pumping opportunities and speed. Roll-in and roll-out berms allow riders to ride the berm as a turn 
or roll the berm as a roller. 
Types of Pump Tracks-​ Pump tracks can be designed to accommodate a wide range of riders and 
skill levels from beginners to pros. They can be designed for side-by-side competition and linear 
racing or they can be designed more like dirt skate parks with vert, transition and multiple line 
options.  
Beginner Level Pump Tracks-​ Beginner pumps tracks often consist of smaller pumps spaced 
wider apart with wider diameter turns, fewer line options and a more linear feel to accommodate 
beginner level riders. 
Intermediate Level Pump Tracks-​ As riders develop better pump track skills the track design can 
be varied to include bigger pumps, bigger jumps and tighter berms that produce more speed and 
air and require a higher level of skill. 
Advanced Level Pump Tracks-​ As riders develop better skills they are able to pump faster and 
more efficiently and they are able to generate more power which allow for more complex moves 
such as hip jumps, gap jumps, wallrides, etc. 
Pro Level Pump Tracks-​ Pro level pump tracks might have multiple line options, which require the 
ability to jump and pump in a tight rhythm. Many of the lines might not be accessible to less skilled 
riders as they are only rideable if the rider is able to generate enough speed and power to get “in 
the rhythm” over the roller and jump features. 
Competition Pump Tracks-​ Competition pump tracks are designed to provide spectator viewing, 
timing stations, multiple lanes and line options to accommodate head to head action. 
Pump Park-​ A pump park generally consists of a start hill and a series roller pumps, jumps, 
wallrides, berm turns, spine jumps etc. that can generally be ridden in any direction as a non-linear 
series of connected features similar to a skate park. 
Pump Trail-​ A pump trail generally refers to a trail-like experience with a series of extended pump 
rollers, jumps and berm turns. 
 
FLOW TRAIL TERMS 
Jump Line-​ Refers to a series of jumps that can be ridden in sequence. 
Jump Trail-​ Refers to an extended jump line that allows for a longer experience. 
  
TURNS 
Flat Turn-​ A turn with no built up berm or lip around it. 
90º Berm Turn-​ A turn with a built up berm wall that allows rider to turn 90º. 
180º Berm Turn-​ A turn with a built up berm wall that allows riders to turn 180. 
 
DIRT JUMP TERMS  
Mountain Bike (Downhill and Freeride) Dirt Jumps-​ Mountain bike jumps for 26” wheeled bikes 
with front and rear suspension, a full range of gears, and powerful brakes require more speed, 
gravity and room to complete maneuvers. Riding surfaces themselves can be more varied as the 
full suspension systems soak up vibration. Mountain bike jumps are typically less steep on the 
takes offs and landings, use more elevation and might vary from individual features to more 
intensive rhythm sections.   
Mountain Bike (Hardtail) Dirt Jumps- ​Hardtail dirt jumpers typically ride 26” wheeled dirt jumping 
specific or dual slalom style hardtail bikes that are equipped with front suspension and high 
powered brakes. The design of the jumps themselves will be very similar except that you might find 
a bit more elevation change. 
BMX Dirt Jumps- ​BMX style dirt jumps are generally rhythm sections that have steep take offs and 

www.hilride.com
Page 23 of 28
landings and are almost always gapped (as riders prefer the aesthetic, the minimal construction and 
material requirements, and the natural filtering of less skilled riders away from the jumps, which 
reduces congestion, and maintenance). BMX dirt jumps are usually meticulously groomed, raked 
and packed with all of the rocks and debris removed from the riding surfaces to provide a very 
smooth line (as BMX riders run very high pressure tires and do not have suspension). BMX style dirt 
jumps typically start out smaller building in size with each jump in sequence as the momentum and 
speed of the rider increases as they pump from one jump to the next. Typically, BMX style dirt 
jumps are built in areas with little elevation change as riders are also more likely to be riding without 
brakes.  
Anatomy of a Dirt Jump Line-​ Typically a jump line or trail will include a start hill or area where 
riders begin their runs. There might be single or a series of rollers at the start of the line to provide 
pump for riders to gain speed for the first jump. The jumps typically increase in size through the 
sequence with the biggest jumps coming at the end of the line when riders are going the fastest 
and carrying the most momentum. There is typically a return berm, wall ride, step up or some other 
type of feature at the end of the sequence that finishes the line and slows the rider down. A return 
trail at the end of the line provides a fast an efficient way for rider to get back up to the top of the 
jump line. 
Anatomy of a Dirt Jump-​ A dirt jump is sculpted out of dirt and consists of a take off area and a 
landing area. Dirt jumps in general can be built in several different styles including gapped or coffin 
jumps, table topped jumps, camel backed jumps, and roller style jumps. 
Gap Jumps- ​A gap jump consists of a take off and a landing with a gap in between. This type of 
jump is generally the most desired by advanced dirt jumpers because of the aesthetic, the minimal 
amount of soil required to construct gap style jumps, and the filtering effect these type of jumps 
have (as they are often unrideable by less skilled riders). These riders have generally spent large 
amounts of time building, maintaining and riding gap style jumps. This type of jump requires the 
highest skill level to ride because of the potential consequences of not making it successfully over 
the gap. Typically, injury rates for gap jumps are higher than for other style jumps and they 
generally are less durable and erosion resistant because the have more surface area exposed to the 
elements. 
Table Top Jumps-​ A solid jump feature with no gap in between the takeoff and the landing lips. 
This type of jump requires a lower level of skill and lower consequences as riders are able to ride 
over the entire jump. Riders are able to slowly increase speed until they successfully transition from 
the take off to the landing. 
Progressive Jump Pack- ​A series of small, medium, and large jumps stacked next to each other to 
provide progressively larger jump options. 
Camelback Jumps-​ A camel back style jump has a subtle depression between the takeoff and the 
landing to allow riders that are rolling over the top of it to be able to pump and increase speed more 
than on a table top style jump. 
Roller Jumps- ​A roller style jump typically has rolled takeoff and landing lips that allow riders to 
more easily roll off the jump features.  
Step Up Jumps-​ A jump where the landing is higher than the take off. 
Step Down Jumps-​ A jump where the landing is lower than the take off. 
Hip Jumps-​ A jump where the angle of the landing is offset from the take off. 
Spine Jumps-​ A jump where the landing and takeoff is only offset by a foot. 
Kicker Jumps-​ A jump that has a more defined take-off than landing area. 
Dirt Jump Start Hill-​ A start hill provides gravity, speed and momentum for riders dropping into a 
jump sequence. Generally, people like to congregate on the top of the start hills to rest, watch other 
riders, and socialize, designing the start hill to be large enough to accommodate this makes for a 
more positive experience. The start hill should also be designed to be able to easily climb and ride 

www.hilride.com
Page 24 of 28
back to the top of it. If it is too steep it will be difficult to climb and the amount of user wear and 
erosion will be increased. A start hill might range in height from (5-15 ft.) depending upon the style 
of the jump line. 
Rhythm Section- ​A dirt jump line might consist of a series or sequence of jumps that allow riders 
to maintain speed and momentum from one jump to the next one without having to pedal. This is 
called a rhythm section. The experience of rhythm jumping is the highest level of dirt jumping and 
feels the best. 
Return Trail-​ A return trail provides riders with the most direct route back to the start of the line or 
trail. Ideally, riders are able to watch other riders and scout out their lines as they return to the start 
area. 
Jump Area-​ An area that has been intensively developed with many takeoffs and landings merging 
together to provide line variations and opportunities to transfer from line to another. 
 
ELEVATED TRAILS TERMS  
Anatomy of an Elevated Trail-​ Elevated trails generally consist of an entry that takes the rider from 
the dirt surface onto the structure, an extended elevated surface and an exit. 
Log Rides- ​A log ride is a technical trail feature that uses a natural timber or log as the riding 
surface to provide a challenging riding experience. 
Rock Lines​- A rock line is a technical trail feature that uses natural rock as the riding surface. 
 
SKILLS FEATURES TERMS 
Drop-​ A drop is a feature that riders roll off and land on a steep transition. 
Rollable Drop-​ A drop that can be rolled over without requiring a rider to catch air (ie. does not 
require the rider to ever have two wheels off the ground). 
Gapped Drop-​ A drop that requires free falling through the air between the takeoff and the landing. 
Drop Progression-​ A series of drops increasing in size that provides a progressively more 
challenging experience. 
360º Berm (Toilet Bowl)-​ A circular berm that rider are able to enter and exit from any direction. 
360º berms are a great way to dissipate speed at the end of a jump run. 
Berm Press-​ A feature that incorporates a 90º berm with a hip jump that allows riders to press off 
the berm and pump off the lip of the hip jump. 
Technical Features (OF)- ​A technical feature is usually an optional line with a specific type of 
feature built for a specific type of riding experience and requiring a specific type of riding skill. 
Technical Trail Feature (TTF)-​ A technical trail feature is a feature that is built as the main line or 
as an optional line along a trail that provides a specific riding experience and demands a specific 
type of bike handling skill to ride. 
Wall Ride- ​A wall ride refers to a constructed wall that is positioned at 75º or so and allows rider to 
either smoothly transition or jump onto the wall and jump back off. 
Radar Dish- ​A radar dish refers to a wall ride that is positioned at less of an angle and is also 
curved providing a more dynamic riding surface and the ability to pump off of it. 
Box Jump-​ Refers to a wood box with takeoff and landing ramps. 
Teeter Totters-​ Similar to classic teeter-totter found in playgrounds, riders roll over the teeter totter 
entering on one side, pivoting over the center and exiting on the other side. 
Suspension Bridges- ​A suspension bridge is a dynamically moving bridge platform that allows for 
a minor amount of movement as a rider passes over providing an interesting and challenging 
opportunity. 
  

www.hilride.com
Page 25 of 28
 
 
  
   

www.hilride.com
Page 26 of 28
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
ATTACHMENT 1: TRAIL PLAN 
 
 
   

www.hilride.com
Page 27 of 28
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
ATTACHMENT 2: TRAIL DEVELOPMENT COST ESTIMATE 

www.hilride.com
Page 28 of 28
 100 ACRE WOOD - BIKE PARK PROJECT - CONSTRUCTION COST ESTIMATE
TRAIL CONSTRUCTION
BASE TRAIL CONSTRUCTION + SKILL FEATURE CONSTRUCTION TOTAL TRAIL
(ROLLERS, BERM TURNS, JUMPS) (PURCHASE + INSTALLATION) COST
DISTANCE DISTANCE DIFFICULTY FLOW UNIT TOTAL TOTAL
TRAIL NAME STATUS TRAIL TYPE UNIT COST TOTAL AVERAGE BASE TRAIL
(MI) (LF) RATING SPEED COST PER COST OF COST OF
PER (MI) OF SKILL COST PER + SKILL
(LF) OF BASE SKILL
TRAIL FEATURES FEATURE FEATURES
TRAIL TRAIL FEATURES
ZONE 1 TRAILS
FLOW TRAIL 1 1.00 5,280' ADVANCED HIGH FLAGGED ROLLERS, BERM TURNS, JUMPS $15,840 $3 $15,840
FLOW TRAIL 2 0.25 1,320' INTERMEDIATE HIGH FLAGGED ROLLERS, BERM TURNS, JUMPS $10,560 $2 $2,640
FLOW TRAIL 3 0.25 1,320' BEGINNER MEDIUM FLAGGED ROLLERS, BERM TURNS $5,280 $1 $1,320
FLOW TRAIL 4 0.50 2,640' PROGRESSIVE HIGH FLAGGED ROLLERS, BERM TURNS, JUMPS, SKILL FEATURES $10,560 $2 $5,280 10 $1,500 $15,000
CLIMBING TRAIL 0.50 2,640' BEGINNER LOW FLAGGED BERM TURNS $5,280 $1 $2,640
SUB-TOTAL 2.50 13,200' $27,720 10 $15,000 $42,720
ZONE 2 TRAILS
XC TRAIL 1 0.50 2,640' BEGINNER MEDIUM FLAGGED ROLLERS, BERM TURNS $5,280 $1 $2,640
XC TRAIL 2 1.00 5,280' INTERMEDIATE MEDIUM FLAGGED ROLLERS, BERM TURNS $10,560 $2 $10,560
XC TRAIL 3 1.00 5,280' ADVANCED MEDIUM FLAGGED ROLLERS, BERM TURNS, JUMPS $10,560 $2 $10,560
PERIMETER TRAIL 1.50 7,920' BEGINNER MEDIUM FLAGGED ROLLERS, BERM TURNS, SKILL FEATURES $5,280 $1 $7,920 16 $1,000 $16,000
FOREST TRAIL 1.50 7,920' ADVANCED SLOW PROPOSED ROLLERS, BERM TURNS, SKILL FEATURES $10,560 $2 $15,840 15 $1,200 $18,000
SUB-TOTAL 5.50 29,040' $47,520 31 $34,000 $81,520
ZONE 3 TRAILS
PERIMETER TRAIL 1.00 5,280' BEGINNER HIGH PROPOSED ROLLERS, BERM TURNS, SKILL FEATURES $5,280 $1 $5,280 10 $1,500 $15,000
ALL MOUNTAIN TRAIL 1 0.50 2,640' BEGINNER MEDIUM PROPOSED ROLLERS, BERM TURNS, SKILL FEATURES $10,560 $2 $5,280 5 $1,500 $7,500
ALL MOUNTAIN TRAIL 2 1.00 5,280' INTERMEDIATE HIGH PROPOSED ROLLERS, BERM TURNS, JUMPS, SKILL FEATURES $10,560 $2 $10,560 10 $1,500 $15,000
ALL MOUNTAIN TRAIL 3 1.00 5,280' ADVANCED HIGH PROPOSED ROLLERS, BERM TURNS, JUMPS, SKILL FEATURES $15,840 $3 $15,840 10 $1,500 $15,000
SUB-TOTAL 3.50 18,480' $36,960 35 $52,500 $89,460
TRAIL SYSTEM
TOTAL 11.50 60,720' $112,200 76 $101,500 $213,700
SIGNAGE PRODUCTION AND INSTALLATION
COST PER
ZONE QUANTITY TOTAL COST
UNIT
ZONE 1
TRAIL HEAD SIGN 2 $2,000.00 $4,000.00 24"X36"
ZONE SIGN 4 $150.00 $600.00
TRAIL SIGN 14 $75.00 $1,050.00
SKILL FEATURE SIGN 10 $5.00 $50.00 3"x3" ALUMINUM BACKED DECAL DRILLED FOR MOUNTING ONTO WOOD FEATURES
SUB-TOTAL $5,700
ZONE 2
TRAIL HEAD SIGN 1 $2,000.00 $2,000.00
ZONE SIGN 3 $200.00 $600.00
TRAIL SIGN 12 $150.00 $1,800.00
SKILL FEATURE SIGN 25 $5.00 $125.00
SUB-TOTAL $4,525
ZONE 3
TRAIL HEAD SIGN 3 $2,000.00 $6,000.00
ZONE SIGN 3 $200.00 $600.00
TRAIL SIGN 11 $75.00 $825.00
SKILL FEATURE SIGN 39 $5.00 $195.00
SUB-TOTAL $7,620
TRAIL SYSTEM
 TOTAL $17,845
TOTAL COSTS
TRAILS AND
SKILL
ZONE TRAILS SKILL SIGNAGE TOTAL COST
FEATURES
FEATURES
ZONE 1 $27,720 $15,000 $42,720 $5,700 $48,420
ZONE 2 $47,520 $34,000 $81,520 $4,525 $86,045
ZONE 3 $36,960 $52,500 $89,460 $7,620 $97,080
TRAIL SYSTEM $112,200 $101,500 $213,700 $17,845 $231,545