Cambodia, a trail situated on the lower slopes of Mount Seymour in Vancouver’s North Shore, is a hidden gem within the extensive network of trails. Unlike the iconic woodwork-laden paths typically associated with the area, Cambodia boasts minimal man-made structures, predominantly comprising natural elements such as dirt and rock slabs. Its resilience over two decades underscores its significance amidst the diverse and demanding terrain of the region.
Set to join the sanctioned trail network of North Shore this spring, Cambodia’s official recognition marks a significant milestone for the local mountain biking community. However, this achievement comes with its complexities. To gain insights into the implications for Cambodia and the broader trail system, I spoke with Deanne Cote, Executive Director of the North Shore Mountain Biking Association (NSMBA).
Sanctioning trails often sparks debate due to the involvement of governmental entities, introducing bureaucratic processes and adherence to stringent building codes. While aimed at enhancing safety and sustainability, this move can alter trail features significantly. The fate of iconic woodwork trails like Jerry Rig and Pink Starfish on neighboring Mt Fromme, dismantled due to liability concerns, serves as a reminder of the challenges associated with formalizing trails.
The journey towards Cambodia’s sanctioning began around 2013/14, amidst discussions with Metro Vancouver, the custodian of the Lower Seymour Conservation Reserve where Cambodia resides. Initial deliberations hinted at closure, prompting advocacy efforts from NSMBA to preserve the trail’s legacy within the network. Despite recommendations for decommissioning from reports like Sartori’s, NSMBA’s rebuttal, citing inaccuracies in usage data, paved the way for Cambodia’s inclusion alongside notable trails like Ned’s Atomic Dustbin and CBC, which underwent substantial refurbishments.
Led by local trail builders Dream Wizards, extensive renovations were undertaken on CBC and Ned’s, each costing over $100,000. In contrast, Cambodia, owing to its natural composition, required comparatively lesser intervention. The trail’s essence was retained, albeit with adjustments to meet Metro Vancouver’s standards, particularly regarding risk management. Notably, features were modified to align with designated difficulty levels, with efforts focused on preserving the trail’s character while ensuring safety.
Despite efforts to maintain authenticity, one significant alteration involved transforming a wooden gap jump into a tabletop/roller feature to comply with trail standards. Additionally, plans for a metal bridge to bypass a log ride, initially scheduled for March 2024, faced delays due to adverse weather conditions.
Reflecting on the process, Cote underscores the human element, acknowledging the inevitable delays associated with staff turnover and organizational dynamics. However, strengthened relationships between NSMBA and land managers like Metro Vancouver have facilitated smoother negotiations, enhancing trust and expediting decision-making processes.
As the final trail to undergo refurbishment, Cambodia symbolizes NSMBA’s commitment to trail preservation and advocacy. While challenges persist, collaborations with land managers, exemplified by the partnership with British Pacific Properties on Cypress Mountain, demonstrate the potential for sustainable solutions.
Amidst the evolving landscape and growing population, formal trail planning becomes imperative to safeguard trails from haphazard destruction. NSMBA’s advocacy efforts, evidenced by their collaboration with British Pacific Properties and other stakeholders, underscore the importance of responsible stewardship in ensuring trail longevity and safety.
While the trail’s transformation may evoke mixed sentiments, the imperative of adapting to changing landscapes and regulations remains paramount. By advocating for sustainable solutions and fostering partnerships with land managers, NSMBA continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of mountain biking in North Shore.
In a realm where illegal trails persist, responsible advocacy and collaboration offer promising avenues for preserving cherished trails and enhancing the overall trail experience. Amidst the complexities, NSMBA’s tireless efforts serve as a beacon of hope, ensuring that the spirit of mountain biking thrives while safeguarding the natural environment.