Trail Access Post Project Report: Central Oregon Trail Alliance

Who is the Central Oregon Trail Alliance?

The Central Oregon Trail Alliance is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization based out of Bend, Oregon. Since the early nineties, the organization, comprising mountain bike enthusiasts, has worked tirelessly to advocate for the recognition and preservation of dedicated mountain bike trails in the central Oregon region. 

Over the decades, COTA has been a major driving force in mapping Oregon's expansive mountain bike trail system. The organization collaborates closely with the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and the United States Forest Service (USFS) to continue building and maintaining trails throughout central Oregon. 

COTA’s continued efforts grant mountain bikers access to safe, properly maintained trails, as opposed to the haphazardly-constructed and dangerous trails of the sport’s adolescence. Through trail stewardship, advocacy, collaboration, and education, COTA is forging the future of the sport.

What was the Goal of This Project?

As part of a broader mission to support responsible recreation and trail sustainability, the Central Oregon Trail Alliance (COTA) has launched a vital project to enhance The Lair—a progressive mountain bike freeride area located just outside Bend, Oregon.

Known for its range of features that cater to riders from beginner to expert, The Lair has become a go-to spot for developing jumping skills and building confidence on two wheels. To ensure the long-term sustainability of this unique riding area, COTA is using grant funding to invest in critical infrastructure and tools that will empower ongoing maintenance efforts and improve trail conditions year-round.

Key objectives of the project include:

• Installing a durable metal storage box to house maintenance tools securely onsite

• Purchasing professional-grade trail-building tools to support regular volunteer work events

• Securing a reliable water supply to help shape and preserve dirt features through Central Oregon’s dry seasons

• Adding fencing and security measures to protect equipment and maintain rider safety

These enhancements will not only protect COTA’s investments and streamline volunteer operations but also ensure The Lair remains a safe and high-quality destination for riders of all levels. With a focus on long-term resilience and community engagement, this project reflects the shared values of adventure, stewardship, and access that define both COTA and RealTruck’s commitment to the trails.

Project Outcome

Tucked just outside Bend, Oregon, The Lair is a progressive mountain bike freeride zone that’s earned a solid reputation among local riders for its jumps, flow lines, and progression-focused design. But keeping a spot like this in top shape takes real infrastructure and a committed crew.

That’s where the Central Oregon Trail Alliance (COTA) stepped in. With the help of RealTruck’s 2,500-dollar grant, COTA tackled a key maintenance upgrade this spring aimed at keeping The Lair ride-ready year-round.

Led by COTA staffers Josh (Trail Maintenance Coordinator) and Alex (Trail Program Director), the team installed a heavy-duty metal tool storage box onsite—something long overdue. Once spring weather cleared and the Forest Service gate reopened, they got to work. They were joined by longtime volunteer and photographer Jeremy Owens, who not only contributed to the installation but captured the whole process in sharp detail.

The funding also went toward new trail tools—rakes, shovels, brooms—and establishing a steady water source for summer shaping and repairs. With Central Oregon’s dry conditions, water access is a game-changer for keeping jumps and berms dialed in.

Field feedback was clear—the upgrades make trail days more efficient, secure, and sustainable. COTA does the work in the background—the necessary jobs that make the Central Oregon mountain bike scene all the more enjoyable for veteran and novice hobbyists alike. It’s the kind of work we love to see, and we can’t help but be proud to see our donations going to such good use.

How You Can Contribute

The good work at COTA doesn’t stop here. The nonprofit is committed to continued support—that means more trail maintenance, more cleanups, and additional infrastructure development. If you’re up to the challenge, COTA is always looking for new members and contributors to lend staffing, funding, or both.

Become a Member

As a membership-based organization, the first step in showing your support is to become a member. Memberships—yearly, household, monthly—account for 40 percent of COTA’s financing. 

Volunteer

If you reside in the Central Oregon area or don’t mind a drive, consider volunteering your time and efforts to one of COTA’s projects. Begin by visiting the volunteer page to learn more about the volunteer process and upcoming events. Interested in taking things to the next level? Consider putting in the work to become a team leader. 

Donate

If you’re unable to volunteer in person, consider donating to the Central Oregon Trail Alliance. Follow the prompts to make a one-time or annual donation—any amount helps fund snacks, supplies, and more for future projects.

We at RealTruck would like to thank the dedicated individuals at COTA for their ongoing efforts in the Central Oregon mountain biking community. It’s your efforts that help to keep the sport alive through educating and supporting new hobbyists, maintaining existing trails, and advocating for the creation of new ones. Keep up the great work!