As we wrap up 2025, the Carson City Bike Park is entering an exciting new phase. But before we talk about what’s next, it’s important to take a step back and explain what a bike park actually is. Many in our community may have never seen one, and we want to make sure people understand what this grassroots project is about.

A bike park is a purpose-built outdoor space designed specifically for mountain biking. It includes features that allow people to ride for fun, develop skills, and enjoy the outdoors at any age. Common elements include pump tracks, flow trails, skill zones, jump lines, and beginner loops. These parks are generally made of natural surfaces like dirt and are shaped to fit the land. Municipal bike parks are free to use, open to the public, and designed for all skill levels.

Bike parks have become popular because they serve a wide range of community needs. They support youth engagement, outdoor activity, family-friendly recreation, and even tourism. Most importantly, they provide a space where people can ride together and progress at their own pace. That’s what we’re working to create here in Carson City.

A Big Step Forward
In November, the Carson City Board of Supervisors approved the Centennial Park Master Plan, which includes the Carson City Bike Park as a core feature. This milestone reflects years of work, public engagement, and strong support from partners and local riders.

Where We Go From Here
The next formal step is working with Carson City Parks, Recreation and Open Space (CCPROS) to establish a memo of understanding that defines how the bike park will function on city-managed land, including how it will be insured, managed, and maintained. This process is expected to begin in January and we anticipate that it will be completed in the first quarter of the new year.

Design Will Follow Community Support
The Carson City Bark Park has always been designed to scale with the level of support we receive. Our goal is to begin with a core zone and grow from there, with each phase adding more terrain and more riding opportunities. Early investment will reduce costs, limit construction delays, and shape what features are available from the start.

No City Tax Dollars Will Be Used
To be clear: the Carson City Bike Park will not use city tax revenue for design, construction, or maintenance. This project will be funded entirely by private donations, grants, business sponsorships, and foundation support. A dedicated operations and maintenance fund will ensure long-term sustainability without drawing on city budgets.

Why We’re Not Fundraising Publicly Yet
Many people have asked when they can start donating. The short answer is soon, but not quite yet. Capital campaign strategy is built on connections and momentum. This means securing the majority of funding from major investors and grant providers before launching community-wide donations.

Looking Ahead to 2026
Early next year, our focus will be:

Finalizing the operating agreement with the city
Developing donor materials and fundraising tools
Finalizing and launching a capital campaign
Drafting Carson City Bike Park design concepts

We’re grateful for the strong community support behind this project. The Carson City Bike Park is a long-term investment in youth, community, public health, and outdoor access for everyone in Carson City. Thank you for being part of it.

Dan Thornton
Project Lead, Carson City Bike Park
Board Member, Muscle Powered
Founder, Ride Carson City

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