(Lander, Wyo.) – The Bureau of Land Management has taken the next step to increase recreational access to public lands in the Johnny Behind the Rocks area by signing the decision record for a master trails plan. This decision authorizes the addition of 40 miles of new trail for non-motorized recreation.
“The master trails plan supports our commitment to increase and improve non-motorized recreation opportunities at Johnny Behind the Rocks,” said BLM Lander Field Manager Mike Phillips. “We look forward to partnering with Lander Cycling, Wind River Backcountry Horsemen and others as we develop the new trails.”
The master trails planning process began in 2017 by partnering with International Mountain Bike Association Trail Solutions to develop a conceptual trails plan for the area. Public input received on the conceptual trails plan and subsequent environmental assessment was incorporated into the final decision.
On June 7, the U.S. Secretary of the Interior announced the withdrawal of 4,821 acres of public land at JBR from mining. This ensures the protection of the current and future trail system as well as important cultural resources.
“The planning foundation that is set for this community asset will ensure purposeful growth,” said BLM Outdoor Recreation Planner Jared Oakleaf. “Those who contributed or will contribute are a part of a lasting legacy. None of this could have happened without community and partner involvement.”
The decision record, environmental assessment and other documents can be found at https://go.usa.gov/xQFCr.
For more information contact Oakleaf at 307-332-8400 or [email protected].