54 Nebraskaland • July 2020
originated. He bought his fi rst mountain bike when he came
to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in 1987, and it has been
one of his top outdoor pursuits ever since. He didn't discover
the trails at Platte River State Park, however, until after he
returned to the state in 1997. "I'm a mountain biker, but I live
in Nebraska and guess what: There aren't any mountains
around," Stuart said. "But we've got some amazing mountain
biking here, including at Platte River State Park."
Not being able to ride those trails during the day for much
of the spring and summer, however, was far from ideal for
Stuart and others who ride the trails. "It made it hard for guys
like me to get out on the weekend," Stuart said.
With the expansion, the trails used for horse rides are now
for horses only, and the older trails will continue to be shared
by hikers and bikers. But the trails on the new addition are
for mountain bikes only. Stuart said he's happy he was able
to play a small part in resolving that confl ict and is glad more
people can get out on the trails and use the parks as a result.
When Sonksen and other THOR members heard Game and
Parks was building new trails, access and parking at the park,
"We were all for it," he said. "Any added mileage is a plus."
Sonksen and others in the group weighed in on features
and design, and continue to do so, suggesting changes
Chris Spargen of Louisville catches air off the launch pad.
Members of Trails Have Our Respect relax in the new
parking lot following their weekly ride.
