As riders ourselves, we understand why these trails matter to the community. Many are well-loved and have been ridden for years. But there are competing interests and real challenges involved in these conversations. Unauthorized trails may conflict with land management plans, environmental regulations, or other legal requirements. Along the I-90 corridor in particular, land managers must consider state, federal, and tribal interests, along with wildlife habitat, cultural resources, and environmental protections.

There's also the challenge of what happens when unauthorized trails are formally adopted into a managed trail system. Land managers have experienced situations where additional unauthorized trails continue to appear, even after existing trails have been approved. It's one of the reasons agencies have to establish boundaries around where trails can be built and what can realistically be maintained and managed over time. 

Evergreen started as a grassroots group of mountain bikers advocating for trail access, and that's still who we are today. We're riders, trail builders, and advocates who care deeply about these places and the communities that use them. We continue to work closely with DNR, other land managers, and local riders across Washington, helping bridge the gap between the riding community and land management agencies. Our goal is to bring these perspectives together, advocate for the trails riders care about, expand access, and find sustainable, long-term solutions that balance recreation opportunities, community feedback, and responsible land management. That includes exploring opportunities to formally recognize existing community trails where appropriate.

We know riders want to see immediate progress, and trust us, we do too. But these processes take time, often involving multiple agencies, environmental reviews, planning requirements, and competing priorities. It's not always as simple as approving a trail, and while progress may not always be visible, we're committed to continuing these conversations and working toward solutions that protect and expand trail access for the long term.

We appreciate everyone who continues to engage in these conversations and cares about the future of our trails. We want to hear from you, whether you have questions, concerns, ideas, or want to get more involved. We're always looking for more riders to participate in our local chapter council and help shape the work we're doing. Reach out to us at  to get involved or share feedback. Your perspective matters, and we want you to be part of the conversation.

Sean's story offers a valuable perspective on a complicated issue, and we think it's worth a read as these conversations continue.

Additional reads and ways to get involved:

An update on Exit 27 trails - October 13, 2026 - Context and perspective relating to Exit 27 concerns. 

Cascades to Sound Chapter Board Meeting - November 9, 2026- Open meeting, planned discussion on Exit 27 with CTS Board President, Evergreen Leadership, and DNR Representatives.

Raging River Trail Construction History  - A case study in the time it takes from concept through completion of sanctioned trail projects.

Trail Building from Concept to MTB Trail: How Community Trails are Formed