Natural resource and land management agencies face numerous opportunities and challenges in developing and managing public trail systems. Relatively new trail user groups, like mountain bikers and in-line skaters have added to the increasing demand for trail opportunities. In certain parks and open space areas along the Front Range of Colorado the user composition has changed from a majority of hikers to a more balanced mix of hikers and mountain bikers, and to a lesser extent equestrians.

In 1987, trails became a national priority, with the President's Commission on Americans Outdoors calling for a nationwide system of greenways within easy access of all Americans.

Follwing suit in 1988, the National Park Service provided its vision on a national trail system with its report, "Trails for All Americans". It included the following goals:

*Trail opportunities should exist within 15 minutes of most American's homes;

*The system should be made up of a combination of federal, state, local and private trails, with entities working together to make an interconnected system;

*Planning for trail corridors and networks should be a grassroots effort to ensure there is adequate support for their development, management and long-term protection.

Colorado State Parks completed its State Recreational Trails Plan in 1992. It alludes to the following societal trends for the present high visibility of trails:

*Continuing public interest in health and fitness as a daily activity,

*Interest in close-to-home outdoor recreation opportunities,

*Popularity of greenways with environmental and recreational values,

*Resurgence of bicycle sales, along with the advent of mountain bicycles.