Mountain bike activity in natural areas - Murdoch Research ...

A case study from John Forrest National Park, Western Australia
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Figure 4: Paint markings on a tree indicating the directions to access mountain biker created trail
(informal trails) in John Forrest National Park, Western Australia: such activity indicates organised
activity and a commitment to create informal trails
Impacts of construction and modification to existing (approved) and informal trails
Technical trail features (TTFs) are trail elements that enhance the character and difficulty of a trail. They can
come in the form of ladders, drop offs, ‘skinnies’ (narrow items that can be traversed) and see saws. They are
important to the free riding style adding technical skill and challenge to a trail (e.g. Figures 5–7) (CALM 2007,
IMBA 2007).
Informal trails and TTFs are often badly located, poorly built and represent a significant hazard to riders
(CALM 2007). Some of the TTFs found in JFNP have been considered structurally unsound and comprise
significant areas of impact (Annear 2007, pers. comm. 30 th October).
Figure 5: Trail surface modified to create a TTF in John Forrest National Park, Western Australia: note
the end of the feature has been reinforced by cement