Sierra front trail construction

Sierra Front Trail Construction – Recreational Trails Program Award Summary

The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) awarded $343,810.78 to the Nevada Department of Transportation on May 16, 2025, under the Recreational Trails Program (CFDA 20.219) to support trail construction in Washoe County, Nevada. The award funds the construction of a portion of the Sierra Front Trail, a multi-use recreational pathway developed through a partnership between Washoe County and the Carson Ranger District of the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest. Phase 1A of the project encompasses construction of 7.7 miles of new singletrack trail built to Forest Service Class III standards, commencing at the Michael D. Thompson Trailhead and extending south/southeast to a pullout on Hunter Lake Road. The trail will incorporate best management practices for sustainability and adaptive-friendly features to ensure accessibility and environmental stewardship.

The complete Sierra Front Trail project will ultimately deliver 13.1 miles of new multi-use singletrack trail with four bridge crossings, creating critical connections between three trailheads: Thomas Creek, Ballardini Ranch, and Michael D. Thompson. Upon Phase 1A completion, the 7.7-mile section will be immediately available for public recreational use, with existing access points at both trailhead locations. This funding represents an investment in recreational infrastructure designed to enhance non-motorized trail access and connectivity within the Sierra Nevada region.

Project description

Washoe county is partnering with the carson ranger district of the humboldt-toiyabe national forest to construct a portion of the sierra front trail which will provide connections between the thomas creek, ballardini ranch, and michael D. Thompson trailheads. The sierra front trail alignment connecting from the ballardini ranch trailhead to the michael D. Thompson trailhead includes 13.1-miles of new multi-use singletrack trail and four bridge crossings. The trail will be built to forest service class III standards, will follow best management practices for sustainability, and will incorporate adaptive friendly features. The scope of work is broken down into phases. Phase 1A includes construction of 7.7-miles of new trail that will start at the michael D. Thompson trailhead and run south/southeast to a pullout on hunter lake road. This section of trail has existing access points at both ends and will be usable by the public upon completion.