Avimor and SWIMBA: Partnering for Epic Trails

Avimor residents are fortunate to have a plethora of stunning trails right at their doorstep. But did you know that many of these trails wouldn't exist without the dedication and hard work of the Southwest Idaho Mountain Biking Association (SWIMBA), it’s members, and volunteers?

SWIMBA: A Passion for Trails

For over 30 years, SWIMBA has been passionate about creating, protecting, and sustaining a world-class multi-use trail network in Southwest Idaho, including within the Avimor community. This 501(c)(3) non-profit organization is dedicated to ensuring that everyone, from seasoned mountain bikers to casual walkers, can enjoy the beauty and health benefits of our region's trails.

Historic Trails Built by SWIMBA in Avimor

Many of the current trails in the Avimor development were actually built by SWIMBA volunteers. One of the trails SWIMBA built is the popular Shooting Range Trail that begins in the Cove, climbs up above Dalcross Road, and continues down to the corrals behind the barn, connecting many areas of the neighborhood. Harlow Hollow’s Trail, providing views down into Spring Valley and up to Stack Rock, was also built by SWIMBA volunteers. Speaking of Spring Creek, SWIMBA helped significantly improve this trail with the addition of the retaining walls that support the trail just past the gate. These are just a few of the trails that SWIMBA has helped build for Avimor and the Treasure Valley community. Since then, SWIMBA has continued to expand and improve the Avimor trail network, building and improving many of the neighborhood trails. In 2021, they completed Pick Your Poison, an expert level downhill mountain biking trail that begins off the Whiptail trail, high above the neighborhood, and continues down until it intersects with the Ricochet trail. Keep your ears open for exciting future trail projects impacting our neighborhood, we might just ask for your help!

Ongoing Trail Maintenance

SWIMBA's work doesn't stop at building trails. They also dedicate countless hours to maintaining and improving the existing network. This includes tasks such as clearing vegetation from the trail edges, installing and repairing trail signs, and repairing trails when they begin to erode or are damaged by our neighborhood cattle. By partnering with Avimor homeowners and mountain bikers from around the Treasure Valley, SWIMBA ensures that the trails are safe and enjoyable for everyone.

In 2023 alone, SWIMBA organized nearly 150 volunteer hours working on trails within our neighborhood. We worked on sprucing up Pick Your Poison early in the season, fixing some winter erosion. In October, in conjunction with the Spooktacular Ride, SWIMBA installed numerous new trail signs within the system along with temporary stickers indicating trail names and directional aids (permanent stickers will be installed in the spring). Shortly before the end of riding season, over 30 volunteers, including the Centennial High School Bike Team, worked on the Broken Horn trail over four days to repair serious trail damage from the summer storms to make sure the trail will continue to be a fun trail to both ride and hike.

SWIMBA looks forward to organizing more days with neighborhood volunteers this spring to keep our trails in peak shape once the riding season starts again.

SWIMBA Spooktacular Scavenger Hunt: A Fun Way to Explore Avimor's Trails

This past fall, we hosted the SWIMBA Spooktacular, a unique scavenger hunt-style ride in Avimor. Adults and kids alike found checkpoints, played games to earn points, and explored hidden gems on the Avimor trail network, all while enjoying the beautiful scenery, camaraderie with fellow cyclists, and many silly costumes. Afterwards, we hung out at the brewery, handed out awards, and kept the fun going into the afternoon. This event was a great example of SWIMBA's commitment to fostering a vibrant and inclusive trail community. If this sounds like fun, consider joining us for a future event.

Get Involved with SWIMBA

There are many ways Avimor residents can get involved with SWIMBA and support their mission:

• Become a member: This is the best way to support the trails, not just in Avimor, but across the entire Treasure Valley. It allows the organization to continue its mission of trail building and maintenance, advocating for trail users, and proving educational opportunities. Visit https://swimba.org to lean more.
• Volunteer your time: SWIMBA relies on the dedication of volunteers to maintain and improve the trail network. There are opportunities for all skill levels; SWIMBA can provide the tools and guidance, but we rely on our volunteers to help complete projects. Trail building and maintenance not your thing? We rely on volunteers to run the entire organization, from fundraising to project management; there is a place for everyone to help.
• Donate: Your financial contributions help SWIMBA continue their valuable work. Donations allow us to maintain and replace tools, feed our volunteers on trail days, cover our insurance costs, acquire permits needed for fun events, and much, much, more.
• Attend a SWIMBA event: SWIMBA hosts a variety of events throughout the year, such as group rides, clinics, and workshops. We love to host events in Avimor so keep your eyes out for upcoming events right in your backyard. Follow our calendar at https://swimba.org/events/ to keep up with all the opportunities.

By supporting SWIMBA, you can help ensure that the Avimor trail network continues to thrive for years to come.

A Final Note

The partnership between Avimor and SWIMBA is a true testament to the power of collaboration. Together, they have created a unique and cherished community asset that is enjoyed by residents and visitors alike. SWIMBA is looking forward to sharing a few future projects that will be taking place right here in Avimor that we think will excite all trail users.

Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or just starting out, we encourage you to get out and explore the amazing trails in Avimor. And don't forget to thank SWIMBA for their dedication to making these trails possible!