Smoother Rides Ahead at Black Elk-Neihardt Park

Sustainable Reroute Underway in Blair

Big things are happening at Black Elk-Neihardt Park in Blair, Nebraska! THOR is supporting a 1,500-foot trail reroute in the popular section known as Prairie Downhill. This project will bring riders a more flow-trail style experience, while also tackling some key sustainability goals:

Better water drainage

Reduced erosion

Lower long-term maintenance needs

Why the Reroute?

The idea for this reroute was identified last year as an important sustainability upgrade worth pursuing. After presenting the plan to the City of Blair and earning approval, THOR and local advocates carefully walked the corridor multiple times with key stakeholders. Using clinometers (tools that measure slope), the team designed a route that keeps the fun, flowing downhill feel riders love, while dialing in a more sustainable grade.

What’s Next

Construction is underway, and the reroute is expected to be completed by the end of August. Once finished, the new section will be ready to shine just in time for the NICL race weekend in early September — and provide an upgraded riding experience for the entire community long after.

This project is another step forward in THOR’s mission to create and maintain trails that are fun, sustainable, and built to last.

Become a Trail Volunteer Today!

Love riding here? Pitch in! Volunteer with THOR and be part of the crew bringing flow to Black Elk. Learn more at https://www.thortrails.org/volunteer

Let’s build and maintain great trails together—see you out there!

Photos by Eric Freudenburg