CANYON RIM TRAIL
History
By 2006, Twin Falls residents had come to cherish their urban trails. The city had paved short stretches along the Snake River Canyon Rim. The town’s joggers, dog walkers, and step counters
and cyclists enjoyed the safe and scenic walkways.
Desire to complete the canyon rim trail spurred a grass-roots citizen group to form the Magic Valley Trail Enhancement Committee (MaVTEC). Under the spirited leadership of CSI Professor Jaime Tigue, MaVTEC obtained city leaders' blessing to acquire property rights to connect and extend the trails.
TFCF Involvement
MaVTEC engaged TFCF for long-term funds management. TFCF would receive revenue and pay expenses for the trail enhancements and purchases as directed. Jaime Tigue joined the TFCF's Board to strengthen the partnership.
Community Involvement
No TFCF project has witnessed more direct community involvement. The tireless MaVTEC team organized numerous “fun runs,” managed by volunteers at little expense. Entry fees from thousands of participants funded trail improvements and built the reserves for future acquisitions.
All the while, MaVTEC quietly partnered with public agencies to plan, acquire rights, and build the connecting trails. MaVTEC volunteers became the go-to source for trail information and the voice of the supporting community.
Years of effort brought agreements with private property owners. Perhaps the most significant was the last. Support from major donors completed the long section between Eastland Drive and the Evel Knievel jump site.
Trails Today
Hugging the Snake River Canyon, Twin Falls’ iconic rim trail extends 6+ miles, from the tip of Washington Street to Shoshone Falls. For some people, the world-class scenery is a pleasant setting for a good workout. For others, the scenery is the whole point. The overlooks and benches offer quiet time with Mother Nature, while the wide, fenced pavement protects the safety of the trail's many users. TripAdvisor rates the canyon rim trail as No. 2 of 43 Twin Falls attractions.
Enjoy what we’re building? Consider donating to support this project and future efforts.