Bismarck, ND — North Dakota Parks and Recreation will host the International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA) in Bismarck for a three-day Trail Care School, September 2-5, 2025. This program offers local trail partners critical education and hands-on training in sustainable trail design and maintenance.
The Trail Care School brings together volunteers, club leaders, land managers, and nonprofit partners to strengthen local trail systems. Participants will engage in classroom workshops followed by hands-on field training at the trail near Chief Looking’s Village in Bismarck. Under the guidance of IMBA’s expert instructors, attendees will gain practical skills in modern trail construction and maintenance techniques, including drainage strategies and trail assessment methods.
"The goal of IMBA Education is to empower you, Trail Champions, with the knowledge and tools to lead sustainable trail development, foster strong collaborations within your communities, and collectively build & maintain great places to ride mountain bikes for generations to come,” said IMBA Education Manager Joanna Fetherolf.
IMBA’s Trail Care Schools are part of the organization’s nationwide mission to promote sustainable trail stewardship.
“Programs like this give trail leaders across our state the tools and hands-on experience they need to protect and improve our trails, ensuring these outdoor spaces remain vibrant and accessible for everyone,” said Tony Hillig, recreation chief for North Dakota Parks and Recreation.
The following partners will attend the training next week:
Federal:
- US Forest Service
State:
- ND Parks and Recreation Department
- ND Forest Service
Local:
- Bismarck Parks and Recreation
Tribal:
- Mandan/Hidatsa/Arikara (MHA) Nation
Private:
- North Country Trail Association
- Save the Maah Daah Hey Trail Association
- Maah Daah Hey Trail Association
- Turtle Mountain Trails Association
- Central Dakota Cyclist Club
- Badland Conservation Alliance
The mission of the North Dakota Parks and Recreation Department is to enrich generations through experiences that connect people and places.
About IMBA
The International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA) creates, enhances and protects great places to ride mountain bikes. It is focused on creating more trails close to home to grow the quantity and quality of mountain bike trail communities across the U.S., so everyone has access to close-to-home rides and iconic backcountry experiences. Since 1988, IMBA has been the worldwide leader in mountain bike advocacy and the only organization focused entirely on trails and access for all types of mountain bikers in all parts of the U.S. IMBA teaches and encourages low-impact riding, grassroots advocacy, sustainable trail design, innovative land management practices and cooperation among trail user groups. IMBA U.S. is a national network of local groups, individual riders and passionate volunteers working together for the benefit of the entire community. Learn more at IMBA.com.