12/31/2025
2025 Recap
In 2025, TORCA made significant progress toward advancing sustainable trail development, maintenance, and stewardship across Southern Arizona. This year represented a pivotal moment for the organization, marked by the initiation of new trail construction, continued system-wide maintenance efforts, increased community engagement, and investment in technical training to support long-term trail sustainability.
New Trail Development
A major milestone in 2025 was the launch of new trail construction on Stone Cactus. TORCA volunteers contributed to the completion of machine-built trail segments and followed up with hand-finishing to refine tread, improve flow, and ensure rider safety. This work also included corridor brushing and the construction of more sustainable re-routes designed to better manage water, reduce erosion, and improve trail longevity in desert conditions.
While substantial progress was made, Stone Cactus remains an active and ongoing project. Additional trail construction, finishing work, and refinements are planned as part of continued build efforts moving forward.
Trail Maintenance and Improvements
In addition to new construction, TORCA focused heavily on maintaining existing trail infrastructure, particularly within the 50 Year Trail System and on Mt. Lemmon. Volunteers addressed a wide range of maintenance needs, including:
-Tread repair and shaping
-Vegetation management and corridor brushing
-Drainage improvements to mitigate erosion and storm damage
-Minor reroutes and sustainability enhancements
These efforts were essential in keeping heavily used trails rideable, safe, and resilient throughout the year.
Training and Capacity Building
Recognizing the importance of technical expertise, TORCA prioritized volunteer education in 2025. Through funding provided by National Forest Foundation grant, TORCA hosted formal rock work training led by Outslope Trail Solutions. Board members and core volunteers participated in hands-on instruction focused on professional trail construction techniques.
This training strengthened TORCA’s capacity to execute higher-quality trail projects and ensured that future builds and repairs meet modern sustainability standards.
Community Engagement and Events
Community engagement remained a key focus for TORCA throughout 2025. In July, TORCA hosted a Lemmon Meringue Ride, bringing together riders from across the region to celebrate local trails and support TORCA’s mission. The event was made possible with assistance from Old Pueblo MTB and Guru Bikes, whose collaboration and support contributed to a successful and well-organized ride.
In August, TORCA partnered with MotoSonora Brewing Company to host a Pint Night, providing an opportunity to connect with supporters in a casual setting while raising awareness of TORCA’s ongoing trail work and fundraising efforts. TORCA also represented the organization and its mission at the Sonoran Desert Mountain Bicyclists Poker Ride, engaging with riders, sharing information about current and upcoming projects, and strengthening relationships within the broader Southern Arizona mountain biking community.
Volunteers and Community Support
Across nine organized trail days in 2025, TORCA engaged 117 total trail workers, representing the cumulative number of individuals who contributed to trail construction and maintenance efforts throughout the year. From first-time volunteers to experienced crew members, this participation highlights the strength and dedication of TORCA’s volunteer community.
TORCA also benefited from continued support from community partners, including Motosonora, whose continued collaboration helped enhance volunteer engagement and community outreach throughout the year.
Looking Forward
The work completed in 2025 established a strong foundation for the future. 2026 is anticipated to include significantly expanded new trail construction, building upon the momentum of Stone Cactus and leveraging the skills, partnerships, and volunteer capacity developed over the past year.
With major projects already underway and additional new trail builds on the horizon, TORCA is well-positioned to continue delivering high-quality, sustainable trail infrastructure that serves the region’s growing riding community.
TORCA extends its sincere appreciation to all volunteers, partners, donors, and supporters who contributed to the success of 2025. Their commitment ensures that high-quality, sustainable trails remain accessible to the community now and into the future.
Photo cred to Molly Cameron and Trenton Bryfogle
