Connecting Communities: 34-Miles of Cycling, Hiking, and History on the River Mountains Loop Trail

 In this episode of CommunityCast, Howard Fox is joined by Paul Grube, the President of the River Mountains Loop Trail Partnership. Paul shares the fascinating history of this 34-mile paved trail and how it evolved from a "trail to nowhere" into a premier outdoor destination connecting Henderson, Boulder City, and the Lake Mead National Recreation Area.

From the lighthearted "adult beverage" origins of the trail’s concept in the late 90s to the technical challenges of maintaining a multi-jurisdictional loop, Paul provides an inside look at what makes this trail a local treasure. He also discusses the incredible wildlife encounters—from bighorn sheep to desert tortoises—and how the Partnership acts as the vital link between the trail’s users and the agencies that manage the land.

DISCUSSION

1. The Happy Hour Vision: Paul recounts how a hiking group from Southwest Gas dreamed up the idea for a continuous loop around the mountains in the mid-to-late 90s while enjoying a few drinks after a hike.
2. A Decade of Construction: Learn how the trail began as a single 12-foot wide segment in 2000 and grew piece-by-piece until the full 34-mile loop was completed in 2012.
3. Diverse Trail Users: Beyond cyclists and hikers, the trail accommodates skateboarders, rollerbladers, and even equestrians in specific safe zones where visibility allows for horses.
4. Wildlife Sightings: Paul shares his experiences spotting coyotes, rabbits, and bighorn sheep, including a humorous story about mistaking a juvenile desert tortoise for a rock.
5. Managing the Loop: As President, Paul explains the Partnership’s role as the "eyes and ears" on the trail, reporting washouts or safety issues to partners like Lake Mead, Henderson, and Boulder City.
6. Year-Round Recreation: Tips for enjoying the trail 12 months a year, including riding during full moons to avoid summer heat and the importance of desert hydration.
7. Community & Connection: Paul reflects on how the trail fosters camaraderie, from organized bicycle clubs to helping strangers fix flat tires during a ride.
8. Getting Started: For those without a bike, Paul suggests visiting local shops for rentals—including e-bikes and scooters—or simply starting with a short walk from one of the many trailheads.

LEARN MORE

To view trail maps, learn about the history, or find information on trailheads, visit https://rivermountainstrail.org or follow the River Mountains Loop Trail on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/RiverMountainsLoopTrail for real-time updates on construction and events.

Get Outdoors Nevada: https://getoutdoorsnevada.org/

NEXT STEPS

Visit the Boulder City Chamber of Commerce's website at https://www.bouldercitychamber.com/

KEYWORDS

Paul Grube, River Mountains Loop Trail, Boulder City, Henderson, Lake Mead, Cycling, Hiking, Outdoor Recreation, Bighorn Sheep, The Best Dam Podcast, Boulder City Chamber

#PaulGrube #RiverMountainsLoopTrail #BoulderCity #Henderson #LakeMead #OutdoorNevada #TheBestDamPodcast #SupportLocal #CyclingLife