Trail closures Nov. 23 to Dec.4th for Geotechincal boring MM1.5 to MM3

Nov. 20th 2009 10:51 a.m. - Mile Marker 1.5 to MM3.25  The geotechnical borings  are scheduled for the Equestrian Levee between Paradise Hills and Equestrian Road, just east of section 27.  This section of trail will need to be closed between November 23^rd through December 4^th while the borings are taking place to minimize the potential for injury to trail users and encroachment into the work area.   The boring locations are outside of the asphalt trail and the contractor has been informed to avoid travel on the pavement to prevent damage to trail surface.  The geotechnical investigation is necessary to certify that the levee meets FEMA requirements for construction. 

Note: It is unknown at this time whether the entire section will be closed during this work or if just each work area will be closed off to travel.  There are eight (8) bore locations indicated on work area maps.  Please be alert and avoid work areas during this time period. We will work with them to keep access open as much as possible but that may mean traversing down or up the slope of the levee.

See map below for bore sites.

 

Bore sites 112009

 

Boulder City’s last 1,000 feet of trail & photo preview

 

 

 

Looking S.E. over Boulder city by Gary Z.

 

Nov. 17, 2009 -  Per Gary in B.C. we are down to our last 1,000 feet of trail to build. Today they are pouring a retaining wall along the property line with National Parks Service Warehouse parking.  Once cured the contractor can pave the trail right up next to it.  Should be completed by November 30th and ready for use…. this is the last piece of asphalt to complete Boulder cities portions of the River Mountains Loop Trail.  This section being completed is between mile marker 30 and mile marker 31.   The follow photos were  provided by Gary Zupanic, Boulder City Engineer and project manager. Thanks Gary.

RMLT connects to Bootleg Canyon Park photo by Gary Z.

 Boulder City last 1,000 feet photo gallery:

pouring retaining wall at NPS last 1,000 feet by Gary Z.

Looking S.E. over Boulder city by Gary Z.

RMLT connects to Bootleg Canyon Park photo by Gary Z.

Above NPS Warehouse by Gary Z.

Bootleg Canyon Park connection by Gary Z.

Near Bootleg Canyon Park uphill climb by Gary Z.

S curve near NPS warehouse by Gary Z.

Silverman Aid Station #10 – RMLT sponsors

Less than two weeks Silverman Triathlon event on Nov. 9th.  We are busy planning and recruiting volunteers to man the aid station. This will be the fourth year the RMLT has sponored this aid station. Aid Station #10 is the last aid station on the bike course, we are located at 101-miles out of the total 112 mile race.  We play a critical role is serving the racers, refreshing them, and seeing to their continued safety. Our aid station site is at the corner of Old Vegas Trail and Paradise Hills Parkway, also known as Foothills Drive.

We encourage anyone interested in supporting the racers to stop by and cheer them on.  In this race a finish is a victory to most of the racers.

Aid station #10 will be open from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on race day.

Desert Big Horn Sheep use the trail, too…

The River Mountains Loop Trail is home to many users groups. The oldest users were here long before the trail was dreamed of.  The photos below were provided courtesy of Paul Grebe, Green Valley Cyclist and a RMLT member. Photos were taken November 24th around milepost #15. These three Rams have seen some years as the horns are nearing full curl.  There have been reports of other sightings along the trail by other users. 

Desert big horn Sheep by Paul G.112408

Their have been several reports of small herds up around the SNWA.

Big Horn on RMLT by Paul g. 112408

Wild flowers of The River Mountains Loop Trail

 

Blazing Star -Mentzella tricuspus 2009

 Mentzelia tricuspus in the Blazing Star Family.The common names are blazing star, desert corsage or velcro plant. The last two names are derived from the stiff re-curved hairs on the leaves that makes the plant stick to clothing. Its common throughout the Mojave Desert in gravels at low elevations.  Photo by rmltman 3-21-09

 

Desert Senna @ Railroad Pass 2008This wildflower specimen was show casing fall of 2008 near Railroad Pass. Diane is doing her Trail Watch trash pick up near by.

 

Desert Senna Boulder city April 2009

The Desert Senna abounds in the River Mountains foothills along the trail.  The Desert Senna (cassia armata) in this photo taken April 28th is found near the trail below Cascada Golf Course in the Boulder City foothills.

Wildflower Gallery:

Blazing Star -Mentzella tricuspus 2009

Bear Poppy April 2008

Desert Senna (cassia armata) 2009

Fall flowers & Trail Watch 2008

RMLT Desert Senna ( cassia armata) April 28, 2009

RMLT Brittlebush (?) MM6.5

RMLT Desert Senna RRPass 2008

RMLT 32109 close up Blazing star – mentzylla Tricuspus

 

 

Trail Trash in the Bag March 21st

Trail Clean up March 2009

March 26, 2009 -  Saturday morning March 21st was a clear warm pleasant spring day. Some hundred plus volunteers showed up at Equestrain Park for what has become an annual River Mountains Loop Trail clean up.  The group split up into three groups and cleaned three different areas along the trail. There was also a Boy Scout Troop/cub pack which worked within the Equestrain Park picking up trash.

I had volunteered to work in group#3 which went to a new area of trail at the City of Henderson – National Park Service boundary near Lake Las Vegas. The lands are actually managed by the Bureau of Reclamation.  This area was an old rock gravel pit/mining area, target shooting, illegal camping, etc. and has not been clean up in 10-yrs easy. 

We had a great group of 16 hard working people including 11 Navy recruits soon to ship off to boot camp. We probably covered the shortest distance of any group, but collected the most heavy duty trash.  We picked up buckets of glass, concrete, tires, railroad ties, car parts, mattresess, tree limbs, and much much more.

We really appreciate our trail volunteers.  THANKS A MILLION!!!!

Arnie’s Resort to Resort Trek on the River Mountains Loop Trail. March 2009

March 27th, 2009:  Last week I received an email from Arnie regarding a trek he was planning over a three day period to hike from resort to resort along the trail spending one night at each of the hotels along the way.  This is something my wife and I and several trail buddies have discussed doing once the trail is complete next spring.  Below are portions of Arnie’s Trek notes as shared with me.   

ARNIE’S TREK NOTES:    I finished my River Mountains Loop Trail hike on Tuesday and am currently attempting to make sense of my  tape recorded journal entries and identifying the more than 352 photos I took along the way.

Briefly, I would have to say the trip was a success:

 

1.  Flowers along a four mile stretch between the Pacifica Trailhead and the Hacienda were at their peak. ( Arnie started the trip at Railroad Pass Hotel)

2.  Winds which were 20 to 30 on Sunday were from the Northwest and I was traveling Southeast and down hill so were no problem. In addition the forecasted rains didn’t show up until after I was at the hotel.

3.  The scenery along the trail between the Hacienda and Lake Las Vegas was spectacular, especially liked the deep arroyos that cut into the desert and the civil engineering attempts through the use of culverts, bridges and rip rap to keep the trails from being washed away. One of the more interesting spots was a small oasis about a mile or so  before reconnecting  with Lakeshore Road, trailhead is about 100 yds past the park fee stations and 2 miles South of Lake Las Vegas. This is where the original water line to Las Vegas first comes out. Managed by BMI they arrange for water releases to feed the wildlife. There (is) a huge cottonwood tree at the location. ( BMI provides a water guzzler for wildlife here)

4.  Since the distance between the Hacienda and Lake Las Vegas was 16.9 miles (according to my GPS) when I arrived at the waterfall, as suggested the concierge at Lowes, I called the valet service and they sent a shuttle to pick me up.   Accomodations, food and service at the hotel was well worth the price. And they dropped me off just outside Lake Las Vegas early the next morning (about a half mile from where the RMLT reconnects).

5.  The final leg from Lake las Vegas was also enjoyable with nice views off Vegas and Henderson, and great flowers between “B Mountain” and Railroad Pass.

 

Summary details of the hiking distances and times were as follows:

 

1.  38 total miles walked

2.  14 hours average moving time

3.  18 hours total time on trail.

 

I have details for each leg of the trail with GPS coordinates for key points along the trail as well as a note of convenient pit stops. ( Editor will add some of these details when available)

Loews Lake Las Vegas Resort

 

 

 

In terms of accomodations:

1. The rooms at all three hotels ranged from sufficent at the Railroad Pass Hotel to better than expected at the Hacienda and outstanding at Loews.  Room rates range from $29 at the Hacienda, $49 at Railroad Pass and $119 at Loews. Normally Loews charges $239 for their “Best Value” rate but since I was a local and first time visitor to Loews they upgraded me to one of their nicest rooms with a view.

2. Quality of meals and service ranged from good to excellent. My favorite was the chicken picatta at Railroad Pass. Prices ranged from $17 to $40 for dinner depending upon what was selected.

 

My wife joined me at both Railroad Pass and the Hacienda.  We both did a little gambling before and after meals. She won and I lost. Loews does not have gambling.

Thank you Arnie for sharing this adventure with me.  I’m going to start planning my “Resort to Resort Trekking” adventure tomorrow.

Trail Logo Signs & Mileage Buttons installed

June 24th, 2009 – We have just received work that all the Henderson monuments have been probably located at 1/2 mile intervals and that trail logos, mileage markers, and user buttons are now in place. This is great news for the safety of trail users.  We are also excited that Lake Mead NRA has authorized maintenance staff to also place trail logos, and Mile Markers on the Lake Mead portions of the trail, some 17-miles.  Trail mileage markers have been very useful to address trail safety and maintenance needs and for the occasional emergency response. 

April 11, 2009 – Saturday morning a group of trail volunteers got together to install the first of 70+ Trail Logo signs on the concrete monuments along the River Mountains Loop Trail. The installation represents a milestone for this trail. The trail monuments are two sided with one side having a slot for the logo sign and three round button holes for trail mileage and user buttons. The other side has four button holes for mileage, user, and directional arrows as needed.

RMLT logo & buttons 2009

The volunteers started at Railroad Pass where the first monument will be both “0.0″ miles and “34.5″ miles. We headed north in a clockwise direction installing mile markers at 1/2 or half mile intervals. We completed the first three miles of logo signs and button installs.

RMLT volunteers Mile marker "0.0" 2009

We would have gotten further along the trail but the volunteers were also painting out graffiti, un-authorized trail mileage markers from special events and some utility location markings with asphalt seal coat.

The black squares and rectangles on the trail are painted over items not authorized on the trail. Hopefully the sun will bleach these soon and they will blend better with existing trail finish.

Paul removes un-authorized trail markings 2009

It is this writers hope that the balance of the Henderson Trail Logo signs and mile markers can be installed over the next 30-days.

Any Volunteers????

Trail logo & monument gallery:

RMLT logo & buttons 2009

RMLT volunteers Mile marker “0.0″ 2009

Paul removes un-authorized trail markings 2009

Trail Monument March 2008

Jim Aligns buttons April 2009

Voulunteer Diane set Trail logo sign April 2009

RMLT sign & buttons up close 41109

Boulder City – Bridge Deck Poured 8/06/09; Completion to Railroad Pass nears…

August 19, 2009 – It’s not official, “BUT” the bridge is done and open for use.  I have heard reports that the new B.C. connection is getting lots of use.  We may have  to install traffic signals?   Just kidding. 

 

 

 

B.C. Bridge concrete curing 8-08-09

 

 

SAFETY NOTE:  Until the signs and stop lines are installed at the railroad crossing PLEASE stay back from the RR-tracks on weekends when the tourist train is passing. Ill try and get the hours of operation post here in the next few days.

AUGUST 6, 2009 – Bridge decking was poured early this morning (see photo below).  Please give it a few days to cure and respect the contractors closed signs.  Getting lots of feedback about riders riding the new paved sections to and from Boulder City.   

BOULDER CITY  AND THE RMLT PLANNING OCTOBER 17TH TRAIL OPENING CELEBRATION.  STAY TUNED FOR DETAILS!!!

  

 

 

rmlt #5 Bridge Decking poured 8-06-09

 

 

 

 

 

July 28, 2009 – Bridge approaches paved. Bridge decking scheduled to be poured this week; then needs a week to cure.  So look for  bridge opening August 10th more or less. 

Also contractor working on segments 3 & 4 paved portions of segment #4 around the Vet’s home.  The trail is trekking east day by day toward a late summer completion. 

 July 23, 2009 - More progress to report as paving took place earlier this week on the remain portions of Segment #5 from Railroad Pass Hotel & Casino to the Pedestrian Bridge.  The bridge is not complete, no decking, so do not plan to ride just yet.

 

RMLT #5 paved to Railroad Pass Casino 72309

 

 July 16, 2009 – More retaining wall work photos. this one is where the River Mountains Loop Trail will cross the historic railroad .  Work progresses daily and everyone is waiting for the pavement lay down day and completion. 

 

  

RMLT # 5 Retaining wall ar RR Tracks crossing 71409

 

Retaining Wall at Railroad crossing 71409

June 29, 2009 – Retaining wall work above the highway and below the railroad tracks is tedious work. Here is photo provided by Gary Zupanic, B.c. Engineer of the work being completed.

 

 

 June 24th, 2009 - Bridge decking has not been poured yet.  Trail construction continues toward Railroad Pass Hotel, one more retaining wall and drainage culvert needs to be placed, then final grading, type two gravel base, and paving in about three weeks. Could be available by mid-July for riding???

Retaining wall work near Railroad Pass 62909

 

 

Segments 3 & 4 have been given the green light to start and grading started Monday this week. We’re estimated late September/early October for completion.  We are so hopeful that we have scheduled a trail ribbon cutting ceremony for Oct 17, 2009. Stay tuned for details.

May 28th, 2009 – Bridge now in place. Due to traffic considerations on private Cascata Drive, bridge was set in place over night May 27 -28, 2009. Bridge is 163 -ft long. This is truly a milestone in the completion of the River Mountians Loop Trail. The paved section from the Bridge to Railroad Pass Hotel is still several weeks from completion. 

RMLT Bridge #5 installed Zupanic photo 52809

Bridge Facts:  It is 163-ft. long & 14-ft wide between trusses

• Built by Contech Bridge Solutions (formerly Continental Bridge) 
• Contractors bid amount for bridge $240,000
• Concrete Bridge abutments cost $58,000
• Bridge is a free span steel, model H1-SQ, fabricated from self-weathering atmospheric corrosion resistant steel
• Bridge will have a lightweight concrete deck

May 27th, 2009 - BRIDGE READY TO BE PLACED TODAY. CHECK IT OUT…..HOPE TO HAVE PHOTOS POSTED BY DAYS END. 

Photos by Jim Holland

 

 April 13th, 2009 – The long awaited Boulder City Trail bridge for segment #5 has arrived on the job site. The footings are still being placed, but the bridge is here. The bridge is required to span the gap across the private Cascata Golf course road and will be placed just north of the railroad bridge .  No date has been set for the placement, but you’ll see and hear about it here. 

 

RMLT #5 Bridge 150-ft arrives

April 20th, 2009 – The other great news regarding Boulder City’s portion of the RMLT is they have advertised for bids on trail segments 3 & 4 with bids due on May 7th, 2009. This means we/they could be under construction on their last trail segments by mid-June or  at least by July 1st, 2009 .

We are slowly closing the loop on a 12+ year trail project which will connect and link the cities of Southern Nevada to Lake Mead National Recreation Area and Hoover Dam.  The River Mountains Loop Trail will become a national destination trail system.

April 29th, 2009 – RMLT field trip to Segment #5 bridge abuttments. Nice walk with great views of Eldorado Valley,  River Mountains and wild flowers along the way.

SEg. #5 bridge abuttment 42909 163-ft. bridge May 28,2009 Holland photo

 

Gallery of photos:

B.C. Bridge concrete curing 8-08-09

RMLT #5 Bridge Lift zupanic photo 52709

RMLT Bridge #5 installed Zupanic photo 52809

RMLT Bridge street view May 28, 2009 Holland photo

163-ft. bridge May 28,2009 Holland photo

Ped. Bridge ready to set 52709

SEg. #5 bridge abuttment 42909

RMLT #5 Bridge 150-ft arrives

RMLT #5 Bridge night lift zupanic 52709

RMLT #5 Bridge north view zupanic photo 52809

RMLT #5 long view west Zupanic photo 52809

Retaining wall work near Railroad Pass 62909

RMLT # 5 Retaining wall ar RR Tracks crossing 71409

Retaining Wall at Railroad crossing 71409

RMLT #5 paved to Railroad Pass Casino 72309 Garys photo

RMLT#5 pavement crosses Railroad wst of bridge 72309

RMLT #5 paved to Railroad Pass Casino 72309

rmlt #5 Bridge Decking poured 8-06-09

RMLT #5 Bridge Lift zupanic photo 52709

RMLT #5 paved to Railroad Pass Casino 72309 Garys photo

 

RMLT#5 pavement crosses Railroad wst of bridge 72309

Trail Enforcement takes many forms…

The River Mountains Loop Trail within the City of Henderson falls under the Federal land management of the Bureau of Reclamation (BOR); however, enforcement of trail rules, ordinances and NRS falls to the City of Henderson Police  and to a lesser degree the Parks and Recreation Departments.  The RMLT from Railroad Pass on the south to Lake Mead National Recreation Area on the Northeast is patrolled by the Henderson Police Dept.  using a variety of modes or forms of transportation. 

On any given day or hour of the day you may see HPD trucks, cars, motorcycles, ATV’s, bicycles, and even horses patrolling along the trail corridor.  Their patrols are for user safety.  The trail has been GPS’d and trail mileage markers are used for reference points.  You will also see Trail Watch volunteers wearing orange vests along the trail through out the day. These volunteers are trained to be the “eyes and ears” on all of Henderson’s trails. Again for the safety of trail users.

HPD ATV Units

What type of Enforcement Issues are they looking for??  The rules applicable to city parks apply along the trail.

• Dogs on leash
• Trash and illegal dumping
• Non-authorized vehicles, ATV’s and motorcycles on trail
• Fire-arms and target shooting on, near or across the trail
• Use after closing hours
• Other non-authorized uses

 

 

 

 

 

HPD Mounted horse patrol

 

Besides Enforcement HPD and Trail Watch are also there to provide:

• Information and directions to trail users
• Aid and assistance as needed
• Trail safety and maintenance needs
• A positive use influence along the trail

 

 

 

 

 

Trail Watch Volunteers

 

Additional Enforcement is provided in the River Mountains area by National Park Service Rangers; BLM Wilderness Rangers; and both Nevada Dept. of Wildlife and U.S Fish and Wildlife.

 Gallery Photos:

 

 

 

 

 

HPD ATV Units

HPD Mounted horse patrol

Trail Watch Volunteers

HPD ATV patrols MM6.5

SNWA Builds High-Concentration Photovoltaic near trail

May 11, 2009 -  Between trail mile marker 4.5 and 5.0 you will see new HCPV towers within SNWA River Mountains Water Treatment Facility. HCPV stands for High-Concentration Photovoltaic. These units will generate approxmiately .208 Mega-Watts to help meet SNWA power needs.  SNWA is committed to generate 20% percent of its energy needs through renewable resources by 2015, which parallels Nevada’s Renewable Energy Portfolio Standards. 

Photo below taken May 10, 2009 by Paul Grube

 Southern Nevada Water Authority has provided me the following fact sheet on this installation. See below…

 

 

RMWTF Solar Panel Installation

Facts

To promote its overall goals of sustainability and green living, the Southern Nevada Water Authority has initiated a renewable energy project to generate solar electricity. The project includes the installation of photovoltaic [solar] panels on the northeastern corner of the River Mountains Water Treatment Facility. (RMWTF)

 

The project will initially include approximately eight 55-foot-wide by 40-foot-tall solar modules on pedestals. A close-up example of what these solar modules will look like can be viewed as you drive northbound on Highway 93/95, just past the Russell Road exit on the east side.

 

The panels’ anti-reflective coating will maximize sunlight utilization while minimizing light reflection.  There will be no emission of excess heat, and the system will not utilize storage batteries. To maximize efficiency, the panels will gradually rotate to track the sun’s daily movements during daytime hours; however, the system will operate noiselessly.

 

The systems being installed are from Amonix, Inc. and are two-axis tracking concentrating solar photovoltaic units.  The Fresnel lenses on the units concentrate the sun approximately 500 times on one square centimeter multi-junction solar cells.  The multi-junction cells are a new technology that captures more of the light spectrum to produce more energy.   The nominal rated value of the six units installed is 222 kW.  During peak solar insolation days the output can be as high as 300 kW.  The amount of energy the systems will produce at nominal conditions is 555,000 kWh per year.  This is enough to power approximately 37 medium sized Las Vegas homes.  The units will begin producing test power by the end of May 2009 with a full in-service date in mid-July when all of the data collection hardware is installed.  The total installation is costing approximately $9,000 per kilowatt.

 

This project is part of the SNWA’s continuing commitment to enhance the sustainability of our desert community. If you have any questions, please contact Robin Rockey at 862-3405 or via e-mail at robin.rockey@snwa.com . 

 

Gallery photos:

Solar HCPV at SNWA Grube Photo 51009

SNWA solar panels photo by Paul 51109

Horses and Equestrians along the Trail

June 5th., 2009  -   Many trail users are not aware that 50% of the trail is open to equestrian users.  Horse riding has and is a popular past time in the  east foothills of Henderson, The River Mountains.  The loop trail is designated for equestrian use from mile marker 1 just north of Railroad Pass through MM 14.5 at Las Vegas Bay Lake Mead National Recreation Area.  The equestrian trail parallels the paved trail.  Many riders start out along the trail but enjoy the open riding into the River Mountains.

The City of Henderson in their phase II development of Equestrian Park will be adding equestrian facilities at the north end of the park to accommodate trailering in horses to the area.  Trailer parking, off loading, tie-ups, riding rounds, corrals, watering troughs and connecting trails into Equestrian Park and the River Mountains Loop Trail will be provided.

Natasha on RMLT Horse ride

Gallery of horses along the Trail:

Natasha on RMLT Horse ride

RMLT riders 2004 trails day

RMLT Mom & boy 2005 trails day

2005 Trail day ride RMLT

Trails day 2005 horses bridge

RMLT 2005 trail ride

Boulder City Last Two Segments Begin Construction June 2009

July 28, 2009 – the project manager advises that late last week portions of segment #4 around the Vet’s home was paved and linked up to segment #5. After only 30-days pavement is laid down.  We are trekking east for a finish late summer.

 

 

 

 

  RMLT Seg. #4 passes Vet’s home 72909

  

RMLT #4 Bootleg Connect 72909

 June 29, 2009 -  Boulder City gave the green light last week to begin constuction on the last two segments (3 & 4) under their jurisdiction.  Work began almost immediately as the following photos indicate.  Construction on segment #4 began over near the Veterans Home and Bootleg Canyon trail head on Veterans Drive.  At the same time work also began on segment #3 at the National Park Service Warehouse on Nevada Hwy.   I guess the plan is to work toward the center and meet up.

We’ll post progress reports and photos here as these last two segments get built. 

BOULDER CITY AND THE RIVER MOUNTAINS TRAIL PARTNERSHIP ARE TARGETING OCT. 17, 2009 FOR A RIBBON CUTTING EVENT TO OPEN ALL THREE SEGMENTS TO THE PUBLIC.  STAY TUNED FOR MORE NEWS….:)

Construction on #4 begins June 2009

 

 

RMLT #3 construction begins 62909

 Photos above provided by Gary Zupanic, B.C. Engineer

Photo gallery below:

RMLT Seg. #4 passes Vet’s home 72909

RMLT #3 construction begins 62909

Construction on #4 begins June 2009

RMLT #4 Bootleg Connect 72909

 

Helicopter makes emergency landing after bird strike on Trail 8-10-09

August 10, 2009 – The River Mountains Loop Trail made the news last night in a story about an emergency landing by a tour helicopter after a bird strike caused significant damage to the windshield and injuring the pilot.  tThe pilot was able to set the helicopter down safety on the River Mountains loop Trail near the Southern Nevada Water Treatment Plant located near Saddle Island.  See related stores via links below:

Link to KNTV: http://www.ktnv.com/Global/story.asp?S=10880977

 

Boulder Beach (KTNV) - A tour helicopter made an emergency landing shortly before 6pm in the Lake Mead Recreation Area after a bird strike. The chopper landed safely on the River Mountains Loop Trail near the Southern Nevada Water Authority Alfred Merrit Smith Water Treatment Plant. 

Six people were onboard the chopper that was heading to the Grand Canyon from Las Vegas. The pilot was the only one who was hurt, with some minor injuries. The six passengers onboard were tourists from London. Game Wardens who were first on the scene say the pilot should be commended for saving lives in this case.

LINK TO LVRJ: http://www.lvrj.com/news/52948932.html

Aug. 11, 2009
Copyright © Las Vegas Review-Journal

Tour helicopter strikes bird

LAS VEGAS REVIEW-JOURNAL

A tour helicopter made an emergency landing in Lake Mead National Recreation Area on Monday after striking a bird midflight.

The Maverick Helicopters, Inc. craft landed safely on the River Mountains Loop Trail at 5:40 p.m.

MORE PHOTOS AT FLICKR :  http://www.flickr.com/photos/lakemeadnra

National Trails Day Celebration – October 3, 2009 sponsored by Henderson Parks and Recreation Department

National Days Day City of henderson Oct. 3, 2009

Event advisory for October 3, 2009:  If you are into walking, hiking, running, jogging, dog walking, bike riding, cycling, outdoor photography, and much much more ….then this event is for you.

Location : Promenade at the Pavilion, 200 S. Green Valley Parkway

Date and time: Saturday October 3, 2009   starts at 9:00 a.m. ends at 1:00 p.m.

Meet fellow trail users…….Learn about local and regional trails…..pick up trail maps….

Bring your bike for a free REI bike maintenance check up…

Visit informational booths and displays….listen to guest speakers on trails and outdoor activities…

Visit the outdoor gear swap meet…..take a trail tour on air conditioned buses…

View the “Trails Photo contest” winners display….

 

National Trails Day 2007Trail event display

 

WARNING: Coyote Alert along trail Continues

OCTOBER 23, 2009 -WE HAVE ANOTHER ALERT! This past weekend two different reports were received by bicyclist about being chased by a large coyote near the southeast corner of the SNWA Water Treatment plant(mile marker 3.5 to 4.0), this is where the trail takes a sharp 90 degree turn.  Henderson Animal control and Nevada Wildlife have been notified.  In order to pinpoint this “one” bad apple coyote we need more reports detailing where, date, and time. DO NOT go looking for this guy, but if seen or you encounter an aggressive coyote along the trail please report it.  Numbers are list below.  Also please call Trail Watch at 702-267-4050 and provide above information.

  

NPS Coyote file photo 2009

September 10, 2009 - We have been getting reports of  coyote sightings along the trail over the past week or two during early morning hours in Henderson.  At least one report indicated that the coyote was large and aggressive toward the trail user….”It chased him on his bike..”  The entire trail is in a rural/urban setting which is home to many wild animals including the coyote. Generally coyotes are afraid of humans and will shy away. Unfortunately our neighborhoods are intertwined with “Mr. Coyote” and he has gotten very use to living among us. He enjoys eating our garbage, our dog/or cat pet food on the patio, our cats and small dogs, and he has mostly lost fear of man.  IF CONFRONTED BY A COYOTE ON THE TRAIL ,WAVE YOUR ARMS, YELL/SHOUT, THROW ROCKS AND EXIT THE AREA.

Coyote in wild file photo 2009

Here is what is posted on City of Henderson Animal Control website:

 Urban Wildlife including coyotes should be handled by the Nevada Division of Wildlife, but they seldom are able to respond due to staff and budget shortages. Animal Control does not handle wildlife unless the animals become a Public Safety issue. If a coyote or coyotes are causing an immediate threat to citizens of Henderson, please call Henderson Animal Control at 702-267-4970 ext. 4 during our normal working hours. After hours if there is a life threatening human emergency, please call 911 for a Police/Animal Control response. Coyotes are common throughout Henderson and are seen most frequently at early evening, night and early morning hours cruising through various neighborhoods. Please keep your cats and small dogs indoors! Coyotes will usually leave by themselves unless they are challenged or cornered. For additional general information, please contact Animal Damage Control at 702-668-4565.

Here are some safety tips regarding coyotes:

1. DO NOT FEED COYOTES!
2. DO NOT LEAVE PET FOOD OUT WHERE COYOTES CAN FIND IT!
3. DO NOT LEAVE GARBAGE OUTDOORS OVER NIGHT IN OPEN CONTAINERS…PUT A LID ON IT!
4. KEEP DOGS ON SHORT LEASH WHEN WALKING! (A leash is required when walking the trail)
5. SCARE COYOTES OFF WHEN SEEN OR ENCOUNTERED!

Please Do Not Feed Wild Animals!

Coyote photo gallery:

Coyote file photo 2009

Coyote in wild file photo 2009

Coyote NPS file photo 2009

Unknown sign Coyotes Do not Feed

Please Do Not Feed Wild Animals!

Interbike Demo – Bootleg Canyon- New Belgium-River Mountains Loop Trail Sept. 21 & 22 2009

Sept. 21 & 22 2009 -  For the first time the river mountains Trail Partnership participated in the Interbike Outdoor Demo held the 21st & 22nd in Boulder City.  Event was held in the Bootleg Canyon Park.  What impressed me as a first timer was the thousands of bike enthruist  riding every  type of bike you can imagine, and they were not running over each other.  Temps in the low 90’s and it was windy, thus we ate a lot of dust.

 

 

 

 The real highlight for us was the partnership with “NEW BELGIUM BREWERY’ and their “Team Wonderbike” program.  We shared a booth and distributed information about both the trail and the “Team Wonderbike” pledge; plus we helped sell New Belgium  ”Fat Tire” t-shirts and hats. 

Link to: http://www.newbelgium.com/team-wonderbike    The pledge goes like this: “I pledge allegiance to my bike,  as a patriotic cure for America…and to the public, with whom we stand, one elation, undeniable….with community and transport for all…BIKE MORE…DRIVE LESS!”

 

 

Interbike & New Belgium & RMTP 092109

 The RMTP also staffed a booth provided by Interbike at the Sands Expo for three days in the advocacy section. We were not in the main stream show floor. We did received a fair number of local retailers stopping by to learn more about the trail, sections complete and to pick up maps.  The Sands exhibits were absolutely mind bloggling for a first timer like me. I had no idea how big the biking industry is…

Interbike show Sands Expo- john, Tony & joyce working RMTP booth 92309

 Interbike Outdoor Gallery/New Belgium/RMTP booth:

Interbike Demo banner & booths 92209

Interbike & New Belgium & RMTP 092109

New Beglium tents & bikers 092109

New beglium van & tents Interbike 2009

Interbike Outdoor Demo 09-21-09

Intebike outdoor Demo – Mtn bikes waiting for ride to top of Red mountain092309

Interbike show Sands Expo- john, Tony & joyce working RMTP booth 92309

CRACK REPAIRS ON THE RIVER MOUNTAINS LOOP TRAIL – 0CT. 15-16TH

 

 

 

Cracks in Trail

October 8th, 2009 -

  We have been advised by the City of Henderson that on Oct. 15th & 16th a contractor will be on the River Mountains Loop Trail repairing cracks in the asphalt. The work will be done from the Lake Mead Parkway underpass south toward the reservoir area on top the three sisters, or mile marker 8.5 south to 6.5.  

 

 Those who ride this area on a regular basis are well aware of the large cracks that have appeared over the last year in this area. I’m not sure of the reason, but my guess is the underlying base was not thick enough to hold the asphalt in place so it moved with the extreme heat this past summer.

 

 

 

Large crack in trail as wide as a $20 bill

 

 

 

 

Trail Alert – Historic Railroad Trail work finished Oct. 21, 2009

October 22, 2009 – Historic Railroad trail is now open again to Hoover Dam.   Reclamation has improved the area that crosses the Police access road.  We have  striped a cross walk, and paved from the exit of the switchyard  to the top of the switchback trail down to the parking garage.

ADDITIONAL WORK PLANNED FOR 2010 - The Bureau of Reclamation Work planned for 2010:

•  install 2 drinking fountains
• Install 1 vault toilet
• Install a shade shelter and table
• Install benches along trail 
• Correct  two dips to bring up to accessibility grade
• open up the back trail loop,
• and develop a trail map complete with lengths, elevations, GPS.

In my opinon these announced improvements will make this one of the best and most unique trail experiences in the Western States.  The back loop mentioned is more of the actual rail bed used to build the dam, which has been off limits to the public for years.  With completion of the bridge next year and these improvements the trail experience will just get better and better.

 

OCTOBER 13th, 2009 -Starting tonight about sundown a contractor will be ripping out the Hoover Dam Police road to repave it.   Reclamation would appreciate it if NPS and River Mountains partnership ask people to be careful in the area where the Historic Railroad trail crosses the roadway to the POLICE substation.

The contractor will be paving the trail from the switchyard exit bollards to the top of the Zig Zag trail, painting a cross walk across the police roadway, and paving the short term drop off and pick up area.

The trail will still be open dawn to dusk as the contractor is working nights, dusk to dawn on the project.  However, at times their will be some cones and tape to reroute the trail while they pave the trail areas.  This is a 2 week project and should be completed by October 23, 2009.

Reclamation will provide you updates as they become available.

 

 

 

 

 

Hoover Switch & Police station work area 2009

 

 

 

 

 

 

(NOTE: This area is just before you enter the paved switch-backs down to the dam parking garage. Be safe and tell your friends.)

Hoover Dam Connecting Trail – Historic Railroad Trail

 

 

 

Hoover Dam connector trail canyon wall 2004

Nov. 6, 2009 -  I ran across these old photos of the building of the connecting trail from the Historic Railroad down to the Hoover Dam Visitor center parking garage.  This was probably one of the most expensive trail segments due to the NEPA and historic nature of the area; plus it had severe construction challenges. We had to hang a trail on the side of a canyon wall.

Hoover connector trail - contractor & trail partners 2004

 The River Mountains Trail Partnership was activily involved in the completion of the Historic Railroad Trail including the Hoover Dam connector as it would become a landmark and historic destination on the whole trail system.

 

Hoover Dam connector trail switchbacks down canyon wall to garage...2004

The completion of the Historic Railroad Trail and the Hoover Dam connector trail were dedicated and open to the public in October 2007 with a bike ride from Boulder City to the Hoover Dam. The trail section from tunnel #5 to the dam is only open during daylight hours. 

In the gallery photos below is one old B & W photo from Bureau of Reclamation public file photos showing the Hi-mix concrete plant with a steam locatmotive. This is the same location of the current Hoover Dam Connector Trail.  If you look closely you’ll see the same large crack in the rock formation on the left.

Hoover Dam Connector Trail photo Gallery:

Historic Railroad Trail Map

Hoover Dam Connector Trail open Oct. 2007

Hoover Dam connector trail switchbacks down canyon wall to garage…2004

Hoover connector trail – contractor & trail partners 2004

Hoover Dam connector trail canyon wall 2004

Hoover Dam connector Trail top of grade 2004

Hoover Dam Train Concrete Plant circa 1930 BOR photo file -same location as top of trail connector

 

 

 

Silverman Triathlon Aid Station #10 “Rock ‘N Rollin’” – 2009

 

 

 

 

Silverman 2009 - Elvis visits aid station - Jason

 

Nov. 9th, 2009 -  The morning after and I feel beat up.  Maybe frank and company should put aid station volunteers through a training program to get in shape for working an aid station on the Silverman?  Aid station #10 is located at the 100 mile mark on the full Triathlon bike ride portion and is the last aid station before completing the ride.  Riders have been on a steady uphill climb for the last 9 miles when then reach this station including the brutal “Three Sisters” at 15% grade.

It was a grand event from our station perspective…Great weather, lots of volunteers, hundreds of biker riders, great hot dogs and chili, no injuries or accidents, and the day ended 45-minutes ahead of schedule.  Our Aid Station theme this year was “Rock ’N Roll” complete with music of the era, costumed volunteers and prop’s which made it fun for all.  

 

 

 

 

 

Silverman Sid station #10 Rock 'N Roll crew 2009

 

During the day we had over 30 volunteers work the aid station. We were also the jumping off location for Henderson Police ATV & Motorcycle patrols of the trail course.  We all enjoyed hot dogs and chili during the day.  We kept hundreds of bike riders refreshed with cold water and Gatorade, Hammer gel, banana’s,and of course rock n roll music, bells, whistles, horns, clapping shouts of encouragement. 

Silverman 2009 racers & aid station in action

   During the day we had visits from Elvis and Peg Bundy and other hipsters yet to be determined.

Silverman 2009 aid #10 celebs Peg - Elvis - ?

Aid Station #10 photo Gallery:

Silverman 2009 Aid station #10 crew at work

Silverman Triathlon rider Station #10 2009

Silverman Sid station #10 Rock ‘N Roll crew 2009

Silverman 2009 racers & aid station in action

Silverman 2009 aid #10 celebs Peg – Elvis – ?

Silverman 2009 – Elvis visits aid station – Jason

Silverman 2009 Rock ‘N Rock kids Aid #10

Tarantula Spiders

Tarantula - These spiders have hairy,brown to black bodies, and a leg span that can exceed 4 inches.  Despite their intimidating appearance, they are generally non-aggressive and will avoid confrontation if possible.  north American desert tarantulas do have venom, but the effect on a human is generally equivalent to a bee sting.

Tarantula on trail 102409

For most of the year tarantulas are solitary creatures that seldom move far from their burrows to hunt lizards, insects and other arthropods.  They are most likely to be seen on summer nights when males are out and about searching for mates.  The mortality rate for mature males is high.  Those who manage to survive the search for a female will most likely be eaten by her soon after mating.  Females, who tend to stick close to the home burrow, may live for 20 years or more.

Historic Railroad Trail featured in Rails to Trails Magizine

Nov. 20, 20009 - The winter 2009 edition of Rails to Trails is out and it feature The Historic Railroad Trail At Lake Mead on the cover, plus a six page article and photos within.  The photo shoot took place back in the spring which several of us from the River Mountains Trail Partnership participated in.  Only Jim Holland’s photo made it into the article.  Jim is the Lake Mead Park Planner and was deeply involved in the completion of the Historic Railroad Trail.  I also interviewed twice with Ben Spillman, but of course was not quoted in the article either, such is the life of one who works behind the scenes. 

Link to article:  http://www.railstotrails.org/news/magazine/index.html   

 The article is well written and certainly covers the many user groups who visit the trail on an annual basis.  The history of how the trail was built makes another story which is covered elsewhere in this BLOG site.   Look under “History” category.

JIm Holland posing for shoot, Low Lake mead shoreline spring 2009

I have a few behind the scenes photos of part of the official photo shoot.  You will also find detailed information, photos, and maps on both the Historic Railroad Trail and the River Mountains Loop Trail at  www.traillink.com

See Gallery below.

Rails to Trails photo shoot – John poses in front of Tunnel #5 Jared & Trish takes photos

Bill Laub posing w/shovel – Jared on ground Trish holds flash march 2009

Rails to Trails photo shoot March 2009 – John, Jim, Bill posing Jared on Ground, Trish Holding Flash

Jim Holland & Trish Tunnel #5 Spring 2009

JIm Holland posing for shoot, Low Lake mead shoreline spring 2009

Historic Railroad at Tunnel #5 circa 1931

Desert Kit Fox – kit fox

 

 

Desert Kit Fox NPS file photo

 

Desert Kit Fox (Vulpes macrotis) – The smallest of foxes, the Desert Kit fox is about 30 inches from nose to tip of tail.  It has very large ears and is gray and buff colored with a black-tipped tail.  The bottoms of its fee are covered with fur to faciltate travel on sandy soil.  Mostly nocturnal, the fox hunts rodents, lizards, birds, and insects. (the ocasional house cat).

NOS - Desert Kit fox file photo

 Note: It is rare to see one of these guys along the trail, but they are out there. The only one I have seen was a road kill, I wore his tail on my hiking hat for awhile.

 

Gambel’s Quail

Gambel’s quail – (Callipepla gambelii)  have plump, stocky bodies, rounded wings, and prominent head plumes.  The name Callipepla comes from the Greek kalli ( beautiful) and peplos (robe).  The body is gray above and buff below, with streaked sides. Males have a black face and throat and a white headband.

These birds spend most of their time on the ground, often near washes and springs.  At night they roost in low branches of shrubs or trees.  They are generally gregarious and form coveys of 20 or more in fall and winter.

Gambles Quail male file photo 2009

 These Quail can be seen along the trail early mornings if one is quiet. Located in washes and areas where water can be found. They are fun to watch and they have a series of calls they make to each other.

 

 

COYOTES

Coyote Howling file photo 2009

Nov. 16, 2009 – Coyotes - (Canis latrans) are grizzled gray or reddish-gray with buff underparts a bushy tail with a black tip, and prominent ears.  They are excellent runners, with cruising speeds of 25 to 35 miles per hour and short bursts of up to 40 miles per hour.

Extremely intelligent and adaptable, the coyote is expanding its range despite loss of traditional habitat and human hunting pressures.  Today the coyote can be found in desert, grassland, mountain and suburban environments as far north as Alaska and as far south as Central America.

The coote is an opportunistic hunter employing a variety of methods to obatain food. It patientl stalks and pounces on small mammals. It has trememdous endurance and can simply chase prey until it is worn out. Where the food supply is predominantly small animals, it hunts alone or in a breeding pairs, while in the presence of large prey such as deer, it will hunt in packs. Coyotes will also make do with insects, lizards, carrion, fruit, and even pine nuts (grass seeds).

Coyotes are usually heard between dusk and dawn. Barks and yelps followed by drawn-out howls serve to announce location, strenghtn social bonds, and reunite separated members of a band.

NOTE: The above definition of coyotes comes from a Nevada Bureau of Mines and Geology Special Publication called “Geologic tours in the Las Vegas Area”.

SILVERMAN TRIATHLON – November 8th, 2009 – 5th Annual event

September 15, 2009 :  Silverman Triathlon runs a 9-mile portion of the 112-mile road race on the River Mountains Loop Trail. Three hills in this section have become known as the “Three Sisters” with grades approaching 15%.  For more information and photos see BLOG page “The “Three Sisters” under Silverman Triathlon category.

About the Nevada Silverman Triathlon:
The Silverman Triathlon is a full and half distance triathlon held in Henderson, Nevada. Branded as the toughest course in North America by “The Man” himself, Dave Scott, and echoed by more than 1,500 participants over the past 5 years, the Nevada Silverman is sure to attract individuals and relay teams from around the world in 2009. For registration or more information on the Nevada Silverman Triathlon please visit www.silvermannv.com.

 

 

Silverman bike rider file photo

 

NO DUMPING….?

 

"No Dumping" says it all....?

Nov. 16, 2009 – Cartoon says it all…..It is what it is…!   We in the trail business do have a sense of humor, sometimes.  To bad dogs can’t read, because dog owners sure can’t.  On a recent hike to pick up trash along the trail from a trail head all I found was piles and piles of dog crap along the trail.  The responsible dog owner picks up after his dog then dumps it in a trash can at the trail head.   “Pack it in…Pack it out!”    There is another cartoon out there from the “Far-Side” I think….shows a bear putting a sewer pipe from the woods/forrest through a side window into a house and giving the signal to the pipeline operator(another bear) to turn it on…

Then there is the dog owner who picks up his dogs business in a bag (thank you); but then leaves it along side the trail???@#@#$  Why?    Or how about the 16oz soda cup or Grande Starbucks cup found sitting 1-mile in from the trail head? You drank it walking here when it was full and heavy, why not cary it back light and empty?  “Leave No Trace” that you were here .

 

ITU, Long Distance Triathlon World Championships coming to Henderson, NV in 2011

November 12, 2009 – The International Triathlon Union, USA Triathlon, the City of Henderson and Lowery’s Multi-Sport Races are proud to announce the 2011 ITU Long Distance Triathlon World Championships will be held in Henderson, Nev., USA, on Nov. 5, 2011. 

 Link to PRESS RELEASE  dated 11/11/09 found here:   http://usatriathlon.org/news/article/28954

In the world of Triathon this is huge.  Lowery’s Multi-Sport Races and City of Henderson will put Henderson, Southern Nevada and the River Mountains Loop Trail on the world map for sporting events.  Stay tuned for updates through out the year.

Silverman Triathlon 2009 bike ride at 100-miles

Here are links to USA Triathlon and International Triathlon Union ( ITU) for more informaiton:

http://usatriathlon.org/

http://www.triathlon.org/

See Silverman Triathlon within this BLOG for other triathlon news & informaiton.

Silverman Triathlon Photo Gallery:

Silverman 2005 bike racer at 100-miles

Silverman Triathlon 2009 bike ride at 100-miles

Silverman Triathlon 2009 bike race aid station 100 miles