Downhill biking trail planned at Mount Spokane

Mountain bikers are working with the state to create a downhill cycling route, probably within the downhill skiing concession area, at Mount Spokane State Park.

The effort is being spearheaded by Evergreen East, a fledgling chapter of the Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance, Washington’s largest mountain bike advocacy group.

“Evergreen East promotes responsible mountain biking, sustainable trail-building, and improved trail access throughout the Inland Northwest,” said Peter Jantz, club president in Spokane.

  “For the first time in the history of Washington State Parks we will be offering a mountain-bike specific trail dedicated to providing a true top-to-bottom experience for riders of all levels,” said member John Henry in a media release.

“Coupled with much needed trail repairs and reroutes, as well as an extensive signage plan, the experience of using the park for all users will be vastly improved.”

Steve Christensen, state park manager, said planning is underway but permits have not been secured. “It takes awhile for the permits on something like this,” he said. “I expect we’ll break ground next year.”

Evergreen East has a website and Facebook page, but online activity so far has been light.