Cedar City has earned a prestigious new title: 2026 International Mountain Bicycling Association Trail Town, joining just 28 communities nationwide recognized for their exceptional commitment to building and celebrating world-class trail systems.

The IMBA Trail Town designation recognizes communities leading with trails by demonstrating strong infrastructure, commitment to trail funding, active local trail organizations, community engagement, and sustainable stewardship plans.

"Receiving the IMBA Trail Town designation recognizes the incredible collaboration between volunteers, local organizations, land managers, and community leaders who have worked for years to build and care for our trails," said Mac Urie with Iron Trailcraft, a local organization dedicated to planning, building, and maintaining mountain bike trail systems in Iron County.

Trail systems are increasingly recognized as powerful economic drivers. According to IMBA, communities investing in trails often see increased tourism, stronger support for local businesses, improved public health, and deeper community connections to the outdoors. Utah's outdoor recreation economy reached $9.7 billion in 2024.

"Our trails are part of Cedar City's innovative spirit, as they bring people together and invite adventure," said Maria Twitchell, executive director for Visit Cedar City-Brian Head Visitors Bureau. "This designation is a wonderful recognition of the years of hard work, collaboration, and pride our community has invested in building a world-class trail experience."

"IMBA Trail Towns are leading with trails by demonstrating how trails support thriving, resilient communities," said IMBA Executive Director David Wiens. "The IMBA Trail Town designation is more than a badge of honor. It's national recognition that a community values trails and the people who ride them."

Local trail leaders say the recognition will strengthen future partnerships and support continued trail development and stewardship throughout Iron County.