Progress Continues on Construction of Denton’s First Mountain Bike Trail
Community volunteers work to remove roots for the machine that will cut the single track.
Work to build Denton’s first mountain bike trail is still progressing despite weather and other circumstances causing occasional delays. In early 2021, work focused on clearing the trail of brush. Current work is focused on clearing out roots, adding berms and cutting in the single track.
Denton residents have long asked for a dedicated mountain bike trail in the city limits. To meet this request more quickly, staff from Denton Parks & Recreation moved forward on the project without a dedicated budget, relying on community volunteers to help with work that cannot be done with a machine. Working with community members, staff reviewed city-owned properties where a trail could be built, eventually selecting a property next to Clear Creek Natural Heritage Center near Hartlee Field Road.
The first five-mile trail has been under construction since the beginning of this year. It will have a low level of difficulty, with more difficult trail offshoots to be added later. The overall project is incremental. When it opens to the public, the trail will be wider than the typical mountain bike trail, with brush being allowed to grow back and narrow the trail over time. Additional features may also be added based on the vision of the community.
Due to weather and other factors, it is difficult to set a definitive date for when the trail will open to the public. However, it is possible the trail could open before the end of the summer.
Volunteers are still needed to ensure progress continues. Trail work days are Saturdays from 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM. Sign up to volunteer for a “MTB Workday” via the Denton Parks & Rec online catalog. Volunteers who work at least three shifts will receive a free t-shirt.
Trail Progress
All images were taken on July 10th, 2021.
Beginning stages of berm construction.
Beginning stages of berm construction.
Wooden stakes on the right side of the trail indicate where a berm will be constructed.
Trail winding through a wooded area.
Wider areas of trail will narrow over time as brush grows back.
Trail winds through a mix of prairie and woods.
An entry point was installed in the existing fence so opening and closing the gate is not needed.
Wayfinding signage leading to the parking lot and trail head.
See the progress with your own eyes and help keep it going by signing up for a trail work day! Shifts are Saturdays from 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM. Sign up to volunteer
