The BOLT Coalition’s new report recognizes the Ring the Peak Trail as a strong candidate for federal long-distance bike trail prioritization— here’s what it means and how you can help finish the ring.
Great news for the Pikes Peak region’s outdoor future.
The Biking on Long Distance Trails (BOLT) Coalition—led by Bikepacking Roots in partnership with the International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA) and PeopleForBikes—has released its landmark report, Long Live Long Trails. The report identifies existing and potential long-distance bike trails of at least 80 miles that meet key criteria for recognition under the BOLT Act (signed into law in January 2025 as part of the EXPLORE Act).
We’re proud to share that the Ring the Peak Trail has made the short list of potential trails recommended for consideration by federal land managers.
This is meaningful recognition. The BOLT Act directs federal agencies (primarily the U.S. Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management) to identify at least 10 existing and 10 potential long-distance bike trails. Recognition does not create a new formal designation like a National Scenic Trail, but it can elevate visibility, strengthen partnerships between land managers and trail stewards, open doors to resources for sustainability and maintenance, and support economic benefits for surrounding communities.
Why Ring the Peak Belongs on This List
The Ring the Peak Trail has long been a signature vision for the Pikes Peak region—a continuous multi-use loop (currently around 63 miles with clear potential to expand and fully close remaining gaps) that circumnavigates America’s Mountain. Much of the corridor travels across National Forest System lands managed by the Pike-San Isabel National Forests, meeting core BOLT criteria around length potential, federal land majority, natural-surface character, and legal bike use.
Local partners—including Trails and Open Space Coalition, Friends of the Peak, Rocky Mountain Field Institute, Pikes Peak Outdoors (formerly PPORA), Colorado Parks and Wildlife, Colorado Springs Utilities, and others—have spent years advancing trail segments, realignments, planning, and collaborative management frameworks. Recent momentum from the Outdoor Pikes Peak Initiative and the $2.5 million GOCO/CPW Regional Partnerships grant has accelerated progress on connections, infrastructure, and stewardship.
Inclusion in the BOLT Coalition report validates that work on a national stage and positions Ring the Peak alongside other promising long-distance routes across the country.
What This Recognition Can Unlock
- Greater awareness among federal land managers and decision-makers
- Stronger justification for resources supporting trail completion, maintenance, and sustainable use
- Enhanced collaboration across jurisdictions
- Long-term economic and recreational benefits for the communities that ring Pikes Peak—Colorado Springs, Manitou Springs, Woodland Park, Cripple Creek, and beyond
Completing the remaining gaps and formalizing a well-managed, continuous experience will create a true destination-quality long-distance trail that showcases the region’s diverse landscapes while protecting the resources that make them special.
Recommended Action: Help Move Ring the Peak Toward Completion
Recognition is an important milestone, but finishing the trail still requires sustained local energy, partnership, and public support. Here’s how you can get involved right now:
- Stay informed and amplify the news
Share this update and the BOLT report with your networks. Tag partners and use the conversation to keep Ring the Peak visible. - Support the organizations doing the work on the ground
Organizations advancing trail construction, planning, and advocacy (including Pikes Peak Outdoors, Rocky Mountain Field Institute, Palmer Land Conservancy and others) rely on membership, donations, and volunteers. Consider joining or contributing. - Volunteer for trail work
Hands-on days with Rocky Mountain Field Institute and other stewardship groups directly advance segments of the Ring and related trails. Watch for upcoming workdays—every hour on the trail counts. - Engage with land managers and decision-makers
When opportunities arise for public comment on forest planning, recreation projects, or related initiatives, show up and speak in support of completing and sustainably managing Ring the Peak. Consistent, constructive voices matter. - Ride, hike, and champion responsible use
Experience the existing segments. Practice Leave No Trace. Encourage others to do the same. A well-loved, well-cared-for trail is easier to champion for completion and long-term support. - Connect with Pikes Peak Outdoors
Follow updates on pikespeakoutdoors.org, sign up for our communications, and reach out if you’d like to get more involved in advocacy, partnerships, or project support. We’re working alongside many partners to turn national recognition into on-the-ground progress.
The BOLT report is not the final word—federal agencies will ultimately determine which trails receive formal recognition—but making the short list is a clear signal that Ring the Peak is on the national radar. With continued collaboration and community support, we can keep building the continuous, world-class experience this region deserves.
Let’s finish the ring.
