Introducing the New South Deschutes County Chapter

With the expanding opportunities for mountain biking in South Deschutes County and strong public support, COTA proudly introduces our newest chapter! 

Bringing together mountain bike enthusiasts from the La Pine, Sunriver, and the Three Rivers South communities, the new South Deschutes County Chapter will work locally to implement COTA’s mission to develop, protect and enhance the mountain biking experience in Central Oregon.

“We welcome the new South Deschutes County Chapter to the COTA family,” said Bruce Schroeder, chair of COTA Board of Directors.  “This chapter will bring together an energized group of mountain bikers, businesses and organizations in South County who are passionate about the sport and dedicated to trail stewardship.”

COTA is a non-profit, volunteer organization that has built a national reputation for working successfully with the US Forest Service and other land managers to build and maintain mountain biking trails.  The new South Deschutes County Chapter joins other COTA chapters in Bend, Crook County, Madras, Redmond and Sisters.

The South Deschutes County Chapter will immediately turn its attention to the Sunriver Trails project, a recently approved network of trails just west of Sunriver.   The 10 miles of new trails, accessible from Sunriver over Cardinal Bridge and from Forest Road #41, will connect to the Wanoga and Cascade Lakes Welcome Station trail networks.  The project also involves restoring and preserving nearby elk habitat.

While much of the new Sunriver Trails will be machine built, the South Deschutes County Chapter will help provide volunteer work crews for the large amount hand finishing work that will be required. The Chapter will also assist in raising funds for trail construction and maintenance.

Another high priority project for the South Deschutes County Chapter will be the re-route of the Black Rock Trail to a safer crossing point over Burlington Northern Railroad tracks.  The four-mile Black Rock Trail connects the Benham Falls Trailhead with Lava Lands Visitor Center.

The mission of the South Deschutes County Chapter will include providing volunteer maintenance support to local trails, as well the development of new mountain biking trails in the area.  The Chapter will work with public lands agencies, such as the US Forest Service and the City of La Pine, to identify and support new mountain biking trail opportunities.

In addition, the Chapter will provide educational opportunities to the local mountain bike community, including training in trail construction and maintenance, and promoting appropriate mountain biking etiquette. 

Everyone welcome!

Interested in getting involved? Send an email to dan.youmans@cotamtb.com

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