The Dirt Wizards Jump Park in Squamish reopened on Sunday, Sept. 8, following months of restoration led by a group of local volunteers.
The park, originally designed by Ted Tempany of Dream Wizards, needed significant repairs and maintenance before the Dirt Wizards Jump Park Association took over management earlier this year, according to Scott Murray, who is the president of the association.
The park aims to welcome everyone, with plans to include Indigenous communities and riders from all backgrounds.
"We have plans in place to bring all communities in and welcome everybody," said Murray.
"Our board of directors talked early on about involving the Indigenous community, along with all age groups. We want to make sure we're a completely inclusive facility."
Although specific programs aimed at Indigenous involvement are still in development, Murray said the association is working with coaches to design events and programs focused on Indigenous participation.
"We haven't gotten to the planning stages yet, but by next year, we'll have more things in place," he said. "This year, we've been focusing on the dirt shaping and getting the park open, but engaging the Indigenous community is definitely in our plans."
The reopening event, held from 1 to 5 p.m., saw over 100 riders in attendance, accompanied by approximately 150 parents and spectators, said Murray. The day featured a variety of activities and prizes sponsored by local businesses, including Chromag Bikes, OneUp Components, The Airhouse, and Tantalus Bike Shop.
Murray said that the group began organizing in November 2023, to restore the park to its former condition.
"We formed a not-for-profit society in February and worked with the District of Squamish to take over the park's lease from the Squamish Off-Road Cycling Association (SORCA)," Murray said.
The lease transfer was finalized in July.
Restoring the park presented several challenges. "There was a lot of work to be done, from removing overgrown vegetation to reshaping the jumps," said Murray, adding that hundreds of hours of volunteer labour were invested in the process.
One of the key improvements made was the restoration of the park's medium proficiency "blue line," which had become unusable due to overgrowth. "This line is now accessible again, providing an option for intermediate riders and younger cyclists looking to improve their skills," said Murray.
The park's restoration has involved significant community participation. Regular maintenance nights, held on Tuesdays and Thursdays, drew volunteers from the local area, including many teenagers.
"Many of our volunteers are between the ages of 12 and 14," said Murray, noting that these efforts were primarily organized through word of mouth and social media.
In addition to making the park functional again, the association has focused on sustainability. "We’re mindful of the park’s long-term sustainability," Murray said.
"For example, we focus on natural drainage systems rather than installing artificial structures. We’re also conscious of our water usage, relying on a small water supply and being as efficient as possible with it. Additionally, we regularly monitor and maintain the property to control invasive species, ensuring they don’t get out of hand.”
The Dirt Wizards Jump Park, which also includes a pump track popular with younger children and their parents, remains a fixture in the Squamish outdoor recreation scene.
"The park is used by a wide range of people, from beginner riders to more experienced cyclists," Murray said. "It’s a place where riders can develop their skills at all levels."
Bhagyashree Chatterjee is The Squamish Chief’s Indigenous and civic affairs reporter. This reporting beat is made possible by the Local Journalism Initiative.
