Happy trails once again for Mount Seymour bikers

Mountain bikers and other outdoor enthusiasts can freely return to using a popular Mount Seymour trail network commonly called Blair Rifle Range.

The North Shore Mountain Bike Association (NSMBA)announced a dealthis week withtheowner of the644-acre propertyCanadaMortgage and Housing Corporation(CMHC) for trail users to rideat their own risk.

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The agreement also stipulatesthe association will maintainthe trails.

"We already do a lot of work on Mount Seymour surrounding these lands," said Cooper Quinn, NSMBAvice-president and director.

In October2016, CMHC put up No Trespassing signs on trailheadsaround the area.

"I think it was kind of a knee-jerk reaction to a liability concern," said Quinn.

Two weeks later, trail users were given the OKto access the trails while stakeholders negotiated an official agreement on how to manage the land in the future.

Quinn says B.C.'s strong Occupiers Liability Actwas a key factor in reaching an equitable deal.

"Itreally protects CMHCfrom liability surrounding any potential injuries or lawsuits on these trails.

"So, I think they've got a bit more comfort there now," said Quinn.

Negotiations also included consultations with First Nations and other local land managers.