Utah State University Extension

Fundamentals of Trail Construction in High Desert Environments

Vernal, Utah

Multi-day Course Trail Construction

Learn how to construct sustainable, high desert trails in this hands-on, two day workshop hosted by the Utah Trails Forum and USU Extension.

If you want to learn to build exciting, sustainable trails, but need some knowledge and skills to get you there, this training is for you!

The purpose of the training is to first introduce you to many of the common issues that create unsustainable trails by observing and evaluating existing sections of trail at the McCoy Flats trail network located southwest of Vernal, Utah. The training will build on that knowledge by establishing viable, sustainable re-route sections, and building them as a group. The process will introduce you to trail assessment and trail building techniques, tools, processes, and best practices. The training is an immersive, field-based, hands-on experience that will connect you with content experts and fellow trail enthusiasts.

You can use the discount code "earlybird" for $15 off registration if you sign up before March 1.

Tuesday, April 7th

9:00 am- Meet at the McCoy Flats Trailhead.
9:00-12:00 – Assessment of current conditions and establishment of trail re-route.
12:00-1:00 - Lunch out on the trail at the construction site (provided)
1:00-4:00 - Finalize and begin trail construction
4:00 - Depart
Wednesday, April 8th

9:00 am- 9:00 am- Meet at the McCoy Flats Trailhead.
9:00-12:00 – Continue trail construction using different tools, techniques, and strategies.
12:00-1:00 - Lunch out on the trail at the construction site (provided)
1:00-3:00 - Continue trail construction
3:00-4:00 - Review and reflection.
4:00 - Depart

Location

Vernal, Utah 84078

Trail Competencies

Trail Construction
• Trail Sustainability Principles
• Construction Specifications
• Corridor Clearing/Site Preparation
• Hand-Built Trail Construction
• Trail Finishwork

Relevant Trail Types

This event has passed

Started	April 07, 2026 09:00 AM
Ended	April 08 04:00 PM

This event takes place in Mountain Standard Time.

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