Editor:
Williams Lake and surrounding area has a spectacular network of beautiful mountain bike trails for all levels of cyclists. Many hours and resources went into designing and building these trails, and now in maintaining them, and many trails are used by not only cyclists but walkers and runners. We are really fortunate to have them for our own local use as well as for their attraction and appeal to visitors and international tourists.
After reading Thomas Schoen’s uplifting article about the essential role and contributions of women in trail building, followed by the women’s bike festival on the weekend, one clear conflict really stands out for me.
I completely disagree with the inappropriate trail names that are vulgar and offensive. Those in charge are reluctant to change them, responding with the “take a joke” and “boys will be boys” sorts of attitude. This attitude is outdated and completely out of touch by now and I don’t think representative of the general mountain biking community here. It certainly doesn’t accurately reflect Williams Lake to me.
I am embarrassed about these sexualized and sexist trail names. I won’t list them here. Look on a trailhead map or online and see for yourself.
Jane Perry
Williams Lake
