Foundations: two-day intensive workshops during which IMBA staff and local experts and stakeholders lead participants through the process for a model community trail system: planning, design, building, activation, promotion and measuring success. Attendees also get a firsthand look at components of an intentional and diverse mountain bike trails community through field visits.
Individuals best-suited to attend the workshops are land managers, community officials, recreation professionals and tourism/economic development staff. In addition to helping you understand the benefits of trails and the experiences desired by mountain bikers, we will provide the knowledge you need to get started making great trails happen locally and help you identify the next steps needed to bring more trails to your own backyards.
The cost to attend is $600, which includes registration, breakfast and lunch, shuttles for field workshops and evening festivities. 10 Scholarships will be available, please contact John Cox for scholarship questions and details.
This event is designed to help attendees learn how to get more trails close to home learning from the benefits and challenges the community in Winona, Minnesota has experienced through their targeted focus and investment in trails. A key element of Foundations is to have local stakeholders—such as parks and recreation, tourism and economic development professionals—all present and involved in the workshop so you get to interact with and hear from them directly.
Note that afternoon site visits will be walking and talking tours. We will not get our hands dirty during this event (no trail building), nor will attendees be returning home with a complete, detailed trails plan, but you will walk away with the knowledge and resources to gain momentum in your own community leading to site-specific plans for more trails close to your home.
Reservations: Due to the demand of Foundations we do not allow spots to be reserved for anticipated registrations. We encourage your group to register early as we are limited to 40 spots. If you would like to know how many spots remain please contact us.
Cancellations & Refunds: A registration may be canceled with a full refund issued if cancellation is requested up to 30 days prior to the event. Within 30 days of the event date a 50% refund will be issued up to two (2) weeks prior. No refunds will be issued if canceled within two (2) weeks of the event. In the event IMBA must cancel the event due to unforeseen circumstances, IMBA will refund the full cost of registration. However, IMBA does not assume responsibility for any additional costs, charges, or expenses; such as charges made for travel and lodging.
Schedule
(please note this schedule is subject to change)
Tuesday, September 30
- 5:00 – 8:00pm Welcome reception
Wednesday, October 1
- 8:00am – 1:00pm Classroom workshop
- 1:00 – 4:00pm Field sessions at Local Trail Systems (shuttles will be provided)
- 5:30 – 7:00pm Optional MTB Ride
Thursday, October 2
- 8:00am – 1:00pm Classroom workshop
- 1:00 – 3:45pm Field sessions at Local Trail Systems (shuttles will be provided)
- 3:45 – 4:30pm Community Panel
- Closing
Getting there and enjoying Duluth
AIRPORTS
Duluth International Airport (15mins)
Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport (2.5hr)
Explore Duluth, MN
“Up North” has never looked this good. Imagine yourself riding in Minnesota’ North Shore region: a chill of fall in the air; thousands of acres of leaves turning brilliant oranges, yellow, reds and purples; breathtaking views of Lake Superior; the feel of the mountains and the charm of the Upper Midwest. October on the North Shore is unbeatable, and with hundreds of miles of trails within riding and driving distance, Duluth is truly a destination trails community, that’s why IMBA is hosting Foundations in Duluth.
Built on the glacial bedrock that forms the dynamic, rocky shoreline of Lake Superior, the Duluth Traverse mountain bike trail runs for about 40 miles along the entire city of Duluth, connecting 5 main trail centers to neighborhoods and bringing more trails close to home for Minnesotans and visitors alike. In total, Duluth boasts over 90 miles of natural surface and paved trails. From the smooth, flowy lines at Mission Creek; to the lift serviced, downhill runs and winter fat biking at Spirit Mountain Bike Park; to the technical, rocky descents in the Piedmont; to rooty, rocky terrain in Hartley, there is something for everyone.
While you’re visiting, Climb Enger Tower to see the giant ships on Lake Superior. Visit the lively downtown scene and experience live music, arts, and sporting events. Check out a brewery or distillery, and watch the sunrise over Park Point. Eat a meal at Duluth Grille and thank me later.
LODGING
Duluth has a wide variety of lodging to suit your needs, whether you’re traveling with your team or on your own. Visit Duluth has compiled options whether you’d prefer to stay in a house or a hotel: visitduluth.com/stay
