Policy on Unsanctioned Trail Building
Purpose
The Golden Cycling Club (GCC) is committed to the responsible growth of mountain biking in our region. We aim to expand and maintain our trail network in a way that respects the environment, upholds land use agreements, and reflects the shared values of all trail users.
Position on Unsanctioned Trails
The GCC acknowledges that some builders operate independently, often driven by passion, frustration with slow processes, or a desire for new types of trail experiences. However, we encourage all builders to work within established systems. We are committed to respectful dialogue and, when possible, supporting those seeking to conduct permitted work.
Unsanctioned trail building can jeopardize land access, strain relationships with land managers, compromise environmental sustainability and disturb culturally or historically sensitive areas. These actions may also impact current efforts to secure approval for new and existing trails under BC’s new provincial framework (changed in April, 2025).
How to Get Involved
We value the creativity and dedication of our local builders and want to work together to ensure your ideas have a lasting impact. If you’re considering building a trail, we ask that you:
- Reach out to us to discuss your ideas.
- Submit a trail concept through our online portal: https://forms.gle/
pXrFiWnN2nAtbgsi7 - Share your perspective—if club processes feel inaccessible, we want to know why.
We’re working to bring more trails under formal management and are open to collaborating on ideas that enhance the network and reflect our shared goals.
Let’s Build Together
We believe Golden’s trail network is strongest when it’s built collaboratively, with transparency, respect, and sustainability in mind. Let’s continue to work together.
If you would like to learn more about the agreements or policies/processes in place with our various Land Managers, we encourage you to contact executive@
With best intentions,
