Daily Sitka Sentinel

May 26, 2020, Letters to the Editor

New Bike Trail

Dear Editor: We would like to say THANK YOU to every person and group who helped build a great new single-track bike trail for Sitkans to ride and enjoy. The Sitka Cycling Club voted to name the new trail “907” for its exact length in feet.

 The trail is a very fun one-direction section off the Cross Trail, near Sitka High. It is designed for beginners, but experienced mountain bikers will also find it enjoyable to ride.

 This happened, ahead of schedule, because so many people and organizations supported the effort. Thanks to our trail maestro/designer, Laurent Deviche, who put in countless hours making a rough game trail into a rideable wonder. Hydrologist KK Prussian (along with her family) made huge contributions throughout. Roland Wirth got us started with some excellent map-making and Alex Bayne rounded out the core group by taking the lead on materials/supplies. Also, a special thanks to Max Kritzer who was the initial project lead in 2019 and Lee House who designed the entrance and exit signs. 

From start to finish we had over 50 volunteers safely lay fabric, haul gravel, and use their muscles to bring Laurent’s vision to life. Thanks to all of them and a special shout out to the many the young people who participated.  Students from SEARHC’s Raven’s Way program spent three days as volunteers which brought us over the finish line so we could meet our June 1st goal. Sitka High School students Asa Dow, Kobi Weiland, Razie Guillory and Alex Bayne played a major role and took initiative on the berm building. The efforts were rounded out by James Pelletier, Eric Estrada, Reynaldo Rivera, Jarrod Yelton, Bill Spivey, Karl Wolfe, Brant Brantman, Ryan Priest, Joe Best and Matt Lawrie. (Apologies if we missed anyone!)

This first, of hopefully many, single-track trails was initially supported by the Parks and Recreation Commission and then the city Assembly, who gave it final approval. Sitka Trail Works has also been a wonderful ally and partner.  A big and essential supply of rock was donated by Troy Bayne; the Hames Center also donated materials; and the project got financial support from Chris and Charles Horan. 

All in all, a great team effort! Watch for more on a celebration to honor all the work accomplished. And, to keep up with biking in Sitka and get our monthly e-newsletter, join the club for free at sitkacycling.wordpress.com.

Gunalcheech, salamat, gracias and thanks.

Doug Osborne and Amy Volz,

Sitka Cycling Club