I first learned about Cincinnati Off-Road Alliance (CORA) about four years ago through my husband, an avid mountain biker and trail volunteer. At that time my experience on a bike could be summed up to training for a couple of triathlons and the occasional cruise around town on my road bike. My passion is running, specifically trail running at ultra distances, which is any distance longer than the standard 26.2 road run. Like many others, I considered CORA to be primarily a local mountain biking organization. While that perception is somewhat accurate and they do advocate for trails with mountain bike access, what I didn’t know is that CORA advocates for multiple user groups and encourages all trail users to get involved.
So as a hiker, runner, or any person traversing trails on your own two feet, you may ask, “how does CORA apply to me?”. Well, as a trail runner and new CORA board member, I’d like to share my perspective:
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CORA is inclusive of all trail users. The organization was founded by mountain bikers and is a chapter of the International Mountain Biking Association, yet the goal from its formation in the mid 90’s was to be welcoming of all trail users. In fact, over 98% of the 100 miles of the trail CORA builds and maintains is multi-use for foot traffic and bike traffic.
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CORA offers many opportunities for trail runners to become involved in new trail building and trail maintenance. CORA trail is built and maintained 100% by volunteers. If you are looking for ways to give back to your community of fellow trail users and Mother Earth, consider attending one of the local trail events. Trails stewards for each local trail system organize volunteer days each month and sometimes multiple days a month. Even if you are the solo type who prefers to venture out on your own to trim back honeysuckle, etc., these events will empower you with the knowledge of trail design best practices and how to build sustainable trails.
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Become a trail running advocate. CORA’s mission is to expand the region’s trail network in Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky and advocate for sustainable multi-use, natural surface trails. The organization has grown significantly over the past few years and needs more trail running voices. A great way to stay abreast of current projects and issues that affect trail runners is to attend the Cincinnati Off-Road Alliance Annual Meeting which takes place at the beginning of every spring. If networking and speaking is your strength, there is always a need to start conversations with local landowners and partner organizations.
If you are interested in getting involved with the Cincinnati Off-Road Alliance or organizing local trail running events, contact us to see how you can help. If you would like to stay up-to-date on local trail news and events, sign up for our mailing list at the bottom of our website or follow us on Facebook. You can attend any of our trail days or events without becoming a member. If you’d like to become a member to support our efforts and become an integral part of the community, your contribution helps drive our momentum! Membership details can also be found on the CORA website.
Cori Stevens
CORA Board Member, Trail Runner