Bountiful trails committee proposes names for new mountain bike trail near Elephant Rock

In the heart of Bountiful City Hall, council members gathered for a work session that sparked lively discussions about local trails and community engagement. The atmosphere was charged with enthusiasm as they navigated through important decisions impacting outdoor recreation in the area.

One of the key topics was the consensus on the Peregrine trail, which has become a beloved feature among residents. Council members expressed their support for maintaining the trail's name, suggesting that its long-standing presence has made it a part of the community's identity. “It’s been out long enough that it’s adopted,” one member noted, emphasizing the trail's significance. Although the meeting was not an official voting session, the council reached a general agreement to keep the name, showcasing a unified front on this matter.

The conversation then shifted to a proposal for naming a new downhill mountain biking trail near Elephant Rock in the Mueller Park Trail Network. Four potential names were presented: "Elephant Down," "Dive Bomb," "Red Tailed Descent," and "Tree Fall." Each name was carefully crafted to reflect the trail's characteristics and the natural beauty surrounding it. For instance, "Dive Bomb" draws inspiration from the swift hunting techniques of peregrine falcons, while "Red Tailed Descent" pays homage to the native red-tailed hawk soaring above the Wasatch Mountains.

Council members were encouraged to prioritize their preferences for the trail names to submit to the U.S. Forest Service. However, it became clear that there was no overwhelming favorite among the options. “I don’t believe there was a preferred name out of this list,” one member remarked, highlighting the collaborative spirit of the discussion. The mayor expressed gratitude for the creativity involved in the naming process, reinforcing the importance of community input in shaping local outdoor experiences.

As the session wrapped up, the council's commitment to enhancing Bountiful's recreational offerings was evident. The decisions made during this meeting not only reflect the council's dedication to preserving local trails but also their desire to foster a vibrant outdoor culture that resonates with residents. With the consensus on the Peregrine trail and the exciting prospects for the new biking trail, Bountiful is poised to continue its legacy as a hub for outdoor enthusiasts.