The longstanding conflict between equestrians and mountain bikers over trails in the Mount Tamalpais watershed appears to be reaching a turning point.
Bikers in Marin County will soon have more access to trails once reserved for hikers and horseback riders, a move that has not gone down well with horse lovers who say it’s a “dangerous” change.
Linda Novy has cherished trail riding with her horse Falco for decades. Soon, the seven miles of trails in the Mount Tamalpais Watershed, traditionally open only to horseback riders and hikers, will welcome mountain bikers.
“The ten proposed test paths are not ideal for sharing,” said Novy.
Novy is chair of the Marin Horse Council and she is disappointed with the Marin Municipal Water District’s decision.
“The way the trails are currently constructed is that they are narrow and have steep slopes. They are suitable for horse riders and walkers,” Novy said.
However, mountain bikers, including Dan Freeman, are confident it is safe to open trails.
“It’s about time. It’s possible and I think it’s necessary for people to use these spaces and the way we use them,” Freeman said.
Novy is concerned about the speed at which cyclists are approaching, including e-bikers who will also have access to some of the paths. She says that trust has been lost in part because cyclists have had access to limited paths in the past.
“It’s not just the incident that scares you. It’s the fear,” Novy said.
“The vast majority of people, like everyone on the road, want to be safe and courteous and make sure everyone is safe. That’s no different here,” Freeman said.
According to the Sports and Fitness Industry Association, nearly nine million people nationwide will have cycled off-road at least once in 2022, compared to 6.9 million 15 years ago.
The Marin County Bicycle Coalition is trying to get the water board to open more trails, as participation in the hobby has increased dramatically.
“The local agency position has been conservative on access. That has been the standard for decades,” Freeman said.
In addition to safety concerns, Novy and conservationists also cite environmental impact as a reason to rule out bikes. They say species such as salamanders and other wildlife could be negatively affected by faster mountain bikes.
“If you add to that the downhill component of mountain bikers, including e-bike riders, mountain bike teams and cycling camps, a very dangerous factor is added,” said Novy.
District officials spent six years listening to opposing groups in public meetings and analyzing the potential consequences.
“Hopefully it’s the sunlight coming through the window that opens everything up,” Freeman said.
“I am concerned that hikers and horse riders will be displaced,” said Novy.
The conflict between security and accessibility is at the heart of the ongoing conflict, with both sides striving for a peaceful balance in the mountains.
The district will study the impact of opening the trails and may make changes after the two-year pilot program.
This month, maintenance and safety improvements are being implemented on the trails. The program starts in October.
The trails included in the pilot programs are Sunnyside, Pumpkin Ridge, Upper Fish Gulch, Madrone, and Concrete Pipe Road.
Top and mid-range trails include Mountain Top, Middle Peak Road, Airforce Throughway, Arturo and Lakeview trails. Grassy Slope Road in the Pine Mountain area.
