The revival of one of Rocky Point’s beloved trails is officially underway!
On Saturday, October 24, 45 NWTA volunteers gathered at Rocky Point to begin the restoration of Switchblade, a popular trail impacted by recent timber harvesting operations. Sponsored by Metropolis Cycles, the work party marked an important first step toward bringing the trail back to life … and judging by the enthusiasm of the volunteers, the mountain biking community is stoked to make it happen.
Clearing the Way for Switchblade’s Return
Recent timber harvesting operations left Switchblade buried beneath fallen branches, logs, and debris. In some sections, the original trail was so deeply covered that crews needed to use GPS maps to reestablish the flagged route.
Before the main work party, a team of five sawyers tackled the larger logs obstructing the corridor. Then, more than 40 volunteers followed behind, clearing branches and debris by hand along the entire 0.4-mile flagged trail.
It was no small undertaking, but the collective effort made a substantial impact.
By the end of the day, volunteers had contributed approximately 270 hours of service, including travel time, helping lay the groundwork for the next stages of Switchblade’s restoration.
Trails and Timber Harvesting Can Coexist
Beyond the physical work, the Switchblade revival represents the opportunity for sustainable forestry and mountain biking to coexist.
Rocky Point, part of Oregon State University’s Tualatin Mountain Forest, is a working research forest where timber management, education, conservation, and recreation intersect.
While harvesting operations can temporarily impact recreational trails, collaboration between land managers and trail organizations creates opportunities to restore and maintain access.
The Switchblade project demonstrates how land managers can accomplish their forestry objectives while working alongside mountain biking organizations and volunteers to preserve recreational opportunities.
It’s a partnership built on a shared commitment to responsible land stewardship.
Fueled by Volunteers and Metropolis Cycles
Of course, a successful dig day is also about bringing people together.
A huge shoutout goes to Metropolis Cycles, which sponsored the event and provided chili, apple cider, and cookies to keep everyone fueled.
And there’s an especially memorable story behind that chili … Metropolis Cycles owner Brad prepared it himself, despite having a broken collarbone!
The Switchblade Revival Continues November 22
With the initial clearing underway, volunteers will return to Rocky Point on Sunday, November 22, for the next Switchblade Session. Crews will continue removing debris and begin some of the dirt work necessary to rebuild the trail.
Restoring Switchblade will take continued effort, but with dedicated volunteers, supportive partners, and a community eager to see this trail return, the project is off to a strong start.
Thank you to everyone who volunteered, the sawyers who helped prepare the corridor, Metropolis Cycles for sponsoring the event, and our land management partners for supporting the restoration of Rocky Point’s trails.
Want to be part of bringing Switchblade back? Register for the November 22 Switchblade Session.
No previous trail-building experience is required. Just bring your enthusiasm and a willingness to lend a hand!