Archives : 2010 : October
October 8th, 2010
 COTA is stoked to announce that several new trails in the Wanoga Complex will be open this fall. Due to a very productive trail work season, especially with the great turnout for the Steve Larsen and Bend Dental Group Work event last weekend in which 68 people turned up to work for four hours on these two trails, we have been able to complete a new trail, which is part of a link from Tiddlywinks Trail, over to Edison Snow Park. This new connector trail is called Kiwa Butte trail, named after the butte it climbs.
Work also has progressed far along the new Dinah-Moe Humm trail, which will complete this connection to Edison Snow Park. The target to open these two trails is mid-October – just in time for the first event that will use them, Bend’s Big Fat Tour. It’s gratifying to live in a community where such enthusiasm for community service is evident. Thanks to everyone who came out and especially to the friends and family of Steve Larsen and Bend Dental Group.
Other plans to build new biking opportunities around the Wanoga area include a new information kiosk and skills park inside the loop parking lot at the Wanoga Trail Head. COTA is still awaiting the final OK from the Forest Service, but we plan to break ground this fall and lay the foundations for a large pump-track and “island” with ADA-accessible paths to a new kiosk that will show maps of the area and other trail information. Stay tuned to learn more about this new development.
Before you head out there to explore the new trails in the Wanoga area, make sure you have a keen sense of direction as the signage has yet to be installed and maps do not show the new trails yet. There’s no need to worry about that if you have registered for Bend’s Big Fat Tour (Oct. 15 – 17), because you only need to pay attention to the specific trail ribbon that marks the route. Although the Friday ride for this year’s BBFT is full, there is still space to sign up for either the 75-mile or 45-mile options on Saturday, both of which include routes along these new trails.
Registration includes the traditional Saturday night party, hosted this year by Deschutes Brewery at the Mountain Room. The 2010 BBFT will be the first chance to ride some brand new trails, but it’s also a must-do for any serious mountain biker. More info about this event, which benefits several local charities including COTA, can be found at bendsbigfattour.com and remember: “It’s about the ride!”
October 7th, 2010
Lev, co-owner of Cog Wild cutting trees, while Lawrence is ready to swampy away the cut wood. For a dry side version of “fall colors,” head east to the Ochoco National Forest and lay some tracks on the Round Mountain/Lookout Mountain trails. Aspen groves and stands of Western larch pepper the forests here along with the ubiquitous ponderosa pine in its favored habitat of “open park-like stands.” The scenery, wildlife and diverse forest types make for a unique visual experience, but the flow and technical challenge of the trails are what makes this area so muchfun for mountain biking. Current trail conditions are a little “fresh” from the recent contract trail work that was completed this summer.
COTA has also just received notice that there is some pending timber harvest activity along the Skyliner trail and the Upper and Lower Whoops trails. Any trail closures will be clearly posted at the trailhead areas, but all trail users should use caution on these trails. Please do not disturb the markings and ribbons in these areas. For the latest information as always consult the COTA website, cotamtb.com
This weekend please join COTA, the friends and family of Steve Larsen and the Bend Dental Group for the second Steve Larsen work event and barbecue. We will gather at the old Mt. Bachelor Park & Ride off Simpson Avenue in Bend and carpool to various work sites in the new Wanoga area. We will gather at 9:45 a.m. and then head to the trails. Trail work will go until about 2:00 p.m. at which time we will all gather at the Wanoga trail head/sledding hill and enjoy a huge BBQ hosted by COTA and Bend Dental Group. We hope to accomplish the official “opening” of a couple of brand new trails on this and the next weekend at COTA’s Annual Biketoberfest. Make sure you are a part of increasing the trail menu in central Oregon.
Please see the COTA website for trail work requirements and gear suggestions like, “Please bring a hydration pack with water and a snack and be sure to bring appropriate layers to accommodate whatever the weather may be.” Remember, COTA will supply all the tools and expertise. You supply the enthusiasm!
Thanks and we hope to see you out there!
|
