February 2026 Trailsetter

We have a relatively quick update this month on trail happenings around Trinidad -- read on to learn more about 2nd Saturday Trail Work at the Wormhole, plus a reminder about using muddy trails (or not using them), and Meet Our Board!

February Trail Work

Spend a little bit of your Valentine's Day with us, loving on the Wormhole trails!

We have a fun opportunity this month to install a new batch of trail signs, in addition to standard maintenance activities.

Saturday February 14, 2026
10 AM - 1PM
Wormhole Trailhead
*Weather Permitting*

TTA will provide tools, snacks, and cold beverages for a post-work hangout. Please bring your own pair of work gloves and a water bottle.

Muddy Trail Etiquette Reminders

We're in the frustrating time of year when trails are frequently icing up, melting out, getting new snow, etc. In most of Colorado and across the Southwest, the generally accepted etiquette is to stay off of muddy trails whenever possible.

When is it too muddy?
If there is any standing water on the trail or when your shoe, tire, horse's hoof, or dog's paws are leaving a track in the mud, then the trails are too muddy to use. These tracks can channel water and cause erosion. When they dry out, they harden, creating an uneven trail tread that not only channels water but can be unpleasant for other trail users.

How can you protect trails?
Use paved or gravel trails until natural surface trails dry out. If you start a hike or a bike ride and encounter mud further along the trail, go straight through the mud. Do not go around it, as that will widen the trail or lead to trail braiding.

Preparing for trail use in the winter
Expect snowy, icy, and muddy areas on most trail systems throughout the winter and shoulder seasons. North facing slopes or trails with a tree canopy will hold moisture much longer. Trails will freeze overnight, so using them early in the morning is the best way to minimize damage.

Know before you go
If there is snow in your yard or nearby your house, there will be snow on the trails. If the snow you see at home is melting or your yard is muddy, it's probably too muddy to use the trails. If it is below freezing, you're good to go.

Think about our volunteers who maintain trails before you go -- and thank you for doing your part to take care of our trails!

Farewell to Founding Board Member Karen Bonney

And lastly, a special thank you to outgoing board member and Treasurer, Karen Bonney!

Karen is stepping down from the board and we want to express our immense gratitude for her dedication as a founding Board member and handler of our finances. We're certain you'll still see her at many trail work days!

Karen is a transplant from Indiana who arrived in Trinidad in August of 2016. Just four weeks later, she started working on the beginnings of the Wormhole with Tim Crisler and company, later overseeing the Americorps volunteers who built the Sandstone Loop.

Karen also helps run the Facebook page Trinidad Senior Trekkers, which sets up a hike each Friday for anyone who would like to join.

Sponsor of the Month
Simpson's Local Market

Our business Sponsor of the Month is Simpson's Local Market. In the tradition of local family grocery stores that used to be a mainstay in Trinidad, they offer grocery staples, fresh food, local meat, and specialty items. Pop in the next time you're downtown and experience great service and great food (we're partial to the bacon...)