For over two decades, Salida Mountain Trails has been the primary advocate and steward of the world class Salida trail system. The trail system is a pillar for the community’s economic vitality and exceptional quality of life.

In 2025, the board established a permanent endowment fund (the “Endowment”) to support the long-term growth, financial sustainability and resiliency of the organization and trail system. The Endowment aggregates donor gifts and the assets are segregated and invested for the purpose of supporting SMT in perpetuity.

The endowment addresses several strategic priorities including…

• Enhanced donor opportunity options including estate planning, annual tax planning such for required minimum distributions from tax-deferred accounts or annual charitable giving and larger donor commitments with long-term impact
• Source of financing for capital projects and matching grants
• Financial support for operations reducing fundraising needs and dedicating staff resources to trail building and maintenance

SMT hopes that Endowment investments can generate a level of return that would support the annual operating budget of SMT by 2040. While ambitious, SMT is here for the long game and recognizes the exceptional level of support from the community and funders.

The Endowment is managed in accordance with the Endowment Policies as adopted and approved by the SMT Board. The Endowment Policies set forth the investment, distribution, gifting and recognition policies. A copy of the SMT Endowment Policy and ancillary documents will be made available upon request.