The final groundbreaking ceremony has taken place, the last test ride has confirmed the hard work, and it's time to hit the trail, right? But what happens when the first heavy rain creates erosion gullies, exposes roots, or a berm gives way in the skill line? This is exactly where it becomes clear: trail maintenance isn't an option, it's a must.
The trails are our calling card in the summer—just as the ski slopes, cross-country ski trails, and winter hiking trails are in the winter. To ensure that the trails maintain a high standard over the long term, they increasingly require targeted and highly professional maintenance. High user frequency and heavy rainfall take their toll on the trails. If the trails are maintained in a timely manner and adapted where necessary, they can be maintained with relatively little effort. Too much maintenance will result in larger, more expensive maintenance projects.
WHY ROAD MAINTENANCE IS CRUCIAL:
Without continuous maintenance, even the best paths will sooner or later become a challenge – for nature, for users, and for those responsible. Heavy rainfall quickly leads to erosion if the water cannot drain away in a controlled manner. Minor damage quickly escalates, paths become unsafe, and the experience suffers – and with it, acceptance.
LEARN DIRECTLY ON THE TRAIL: OUR TRAIL MAINTENANCE COURSES
To prevent this from happening, you need know-how: Which tools are suitable? How is water properly channeled? What is the right technique and where is the right place to divert water from the trail?
This is exactly where the road maintenance courses from Graubünden Bike on – carried out by ALLEGRA SwitzerlandThe courses are taught by our colleague Lukas Häusler – a true specialist in path management, trail maintenance, and sustainable planning. With his experience from numerous projects in the Alpine region, he brings not only in-depth knowledge but also a feel for practical solutions on site. He is supported by other experts from our team – most recently in Scuol by Gerry Cusini our experienced trail builder from Livignio. Trail specialist Mati Gonzalez Lukas regularly supports the courses – because in the summer he maintains the paths of the communities in the canton of Graubünden.
The course is aimed at those responsible for local authorities, tourism, trail construction or clubs, but also at committed private individuals.
The focus is on:
- Drainage and water management in the field
- Stabilization of heavily used sections
- Path maintenance in different terrain types
- Tool selection and effective working techniques
- Safety and sustainable maintenance
COURSE CONTENT WITH SUBSTANCE: WATER MANAGEMENT
A central theme in our courses is water management. Damage can occur if water is drained incorrectly or not at all. We teach how to properly construct drainage systems, manage watercourses, and design trail sections to remain stable even during heavy rain.
We also cover the correct choice of line, the targeted use of materials, the identification of problem areas, and the efficient use of tools. All with one clear goal: participants should be able to go straight into the field and get started after the course.
Xavier von Supertrail Rides Now we'll explain to you directly in the field why it's sometimes even good to be out on the trail in the rain - or at least how you can make good use of the bad weather:
THINK LONG-TERM AND MAINTAIN PATHS!
Trail maintenance means responsibility: for the infrastructure, for nature, and for the people who use our trails. Well-maintained trails not only reduce costs, they also improve the user experience and protect the terrain. That's why it's important to us to share this knowledge – in an understandable, practical, and regionally adapted way.
Join now!
Want to keep your trails in shape and get involved yourself? Then sign up for one of our courses – or contact us directly if you'd like to organize a course in your area.
