Category : Trail Work

Winter Work is Underway: Expect more good things next spring

Although winter seems to be “officially here,” as Bend’s esteemed godfather of mountain biking Bob Woodward wrote last week, it doesn’t mean the Central Oregon mountain biking opportunities have disappeared. All those suggestions are worthy. The enthusiasts can get our tires on dirt yearround; it just becomes a matter of clothing over weather. Make sure you head out well prepared, not only for cold, but for darkness as well. Keep in mind also as snow levels fluctuate and trails become snowed in, not only is the biking more difficult, but so is the emergency access. Please be careful out there!

Since COTA’s main trail work activities are also slowing somewhat this time of year, there is a great opportunity to handle some of the planning and administrative duties that tend to accumulate during the summer season. One of these items is planning for expanded “skills areas.” The new Wanoga “Infield” zone will be one such area, and we hope to complete this project next summer. If you have been up there lately, you’ll notice a lot of work happening right now. We want to get a good foundation of dirt and rock installed to take advantage of the natural compaction that a solid snow pack can provide. That, and we have been cleared by the Forest Service to begin this “foundation” phase of the project. Detailed planning for various pump-track and “dual slalom” lines should be complete in the next couple of months. Stay tuned…

Here’s a gentle reminder to exercise good trail etiquette at all times; yield the right-of-way to the uphill rider; control your speed to minimize skidding and going off trail, and always be friendly on shared trails. COTA leaders recently attended a Forest Service Volunteer Appreciation Party and a very encouraging comment was heard from a leader of one of the equestrian groups. He said he had reports that all the equestrian/mountain biker encounters were very positive. It seems the message is out: shared trails are best when trail users have a good attitude toward one another. Thanks for keeping the conflict off the trails!

New Trail Opportunities Abound: Making new trail connections on the eve of the Big Fat Tour

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!”

Head East, Young Man

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!

More Than Just the McKenzie: Exploring fall colors on the wet side

Cog guide, Chris Bowman going around Clear Lake

Ahh, rain and fall colors. Does it get any better than this? I just rode the McKenzie River Trail (MRT) and even when it’s raining you stay mostly dry underneath the high canopy of old growth forest that covers this trail. Fall colors are just beginning to show themselves and it only gets better as winter approaches. The MRT is one of those classic rides – very scenic, plenty of challenges for every level of mountain biker and a full day immersed in some spectacularly pristine nature. I liken riding the McKenzie to a biking baptism, as it has a renewing effect.

Other trails in the area also deserve honorable mention. Originally constructed in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps, the O’Leary, O’Lallie and King’s Castle trails are worthy of exploration. King’s Castle trail starts just across the river near the lower end of the McKenzie River trail and climbs to an amazing peak with views of the old Cascades and the high Cascades. It is well worth the effort. You can connect to O’Leary near the top of King’s Castle (Castle Rock), as well. Check in with the McKenzie Ranger Station for specifics and local trail conditions. After a long day out, there is nothing better than soaking sore muscles in one of the many hot springs in that immediate area.

The many volunteers of COTA also look forward to the fall season because it is the time of year when “dirt work” is most effective. All those stutter-bumps, blown-out berms and sand traps can finally be repaired and “put to bed” for the winter. This fall, COTA has a multitude of opportunities to get involved in maintaining your trails. The premier event is COTA’s annual Biketoberfest on Sat., Oct. 9. This event includes a free after-party for all volunteers! COTA is also hosting the second annual Steve Larsen Work Day on Sat., Oct. 2. Work crews will be finishing up the Steve Larsen Trail, commemorating one of Bend’s most respected professional athletes who passed away suddenly in the spring of 2009. Please join COTA and friends for either one of these great events. Check the COTA website for more details at cotamtb.com.

Thanks, we look forward to seeing you out there!

Knocking Down the Dust

Hooray for rain! The much-needed moisture falling from the sky over the past couple of days has helped quell the dusty conditions somewhat. It’s amazing how much rain it really takes to bring back the tacky firm soil conditions we know and love.

While this is definitely a welcomed change (as far as trail conditions go) it will still be maybe a month before truly prime dirt is the norm. For now, head out and enjoy the trails, but remember to try to avoid skidding.

Skidding and riding out-of-control can create problems for the trail surface, namely “stutter bumps” and blown-out berms. It’s always good practice to ride in control, but especially when the soil conditions are dry as usual this time of year. Of course some trails are designed for better “flow” (Whoops, Storm-King and Flagline all come immediately to mind) and others are twistier with frequent changes in speed required (such as Mrazek, COD and Farewell trails). Knowing the style of riding you prefer, and therefore what it is you’re setting yourself up for are keys to an enjoyable ride.

If you would like to learn more about how trail design can influence the way a trail is ridden, please join us this fall at a work event in the Wanoga Area. The trails COTA is building there are all designed for maximum flow and sustainability (read – smooth lines, good drainage and few, if any abrupt changes in speed) COTA Work Events are open to anyone with an interest in building and maintaining trails. Please see the COTA website (www.cotamtb.com) for a schedule of events and minimum suggested requirements to participate.

Speaking of joining, are you a member of COTA yet? If you’ve enjoyed the trails around Bend then chances are you’re enjoying the fruits of COTA Volunteers’ labor. To date COTA volunteers have logged over 3,200 hours doing trail work in 2010. Beyond joining us as a member, we also need your involvement with trail work. By helping maintain and build new trails you’ll gain a new appreciation for the trails we have here in Central Oregon. Doing trail work also gives you a new way to look at trail etiquette and riding styles.

Work It, Baby! Metolius-Windigo trail is good to go as COTA crews continue their high elevation work

With recent warm temps exacerbating the dusty conditions closer to town, riders would do well to focus their energy on shaded and high elevation trails where summer has been slowest to chase the moisture from the soils. The snow’s recent retreat has allowed crews to ramp up their trail clearing efforts at elevation, opening up more miles of riding a little further from town.

Some of COTA’s recent work includes the not insignificant task of clearing the entire Metolius-Windigo trail from Todd Creek to Park Meadow trail head and north toward Sisters. Crews have also been out in the Vista Butte area just north of Century Drive where single track riders should find that most of the blowdown and debris from this past winter has been cleared. Please keep in mind the Flagline trail will be closed until Sunday, August 15 to protect elk breeding habitat. Wait until next week to ride that, please.

Another trail that is ready for riding is the Newberry Rim trail around the top of Newberry Caldera. Start this ride at Paulina Falls and ride up the road toward Paulina Peak to access the single track. This trail drops steeply off the road about a half mile below the summit. There are several great viewing spots of both the lakes in the caldera and the mountains to the west. Newberry Rim is one of those classic loop rides, pick up the latest Central Oregon map and get out there.

If you’re looking for more information about current conditions, COTA posts the most recent trail work updates on our website www.cotamtb.com on the “worklogs” page. This is a great place to check in before heading out to the trailhead.

For trail-related questions, comments or concerns please email

chairman@cotamtb.com

You’ll still find snow, but dust rules the day

High and Dry. It is difficult to imagine that after the number of days of hot weather we’ve had recently there can still be snow blocking any trails, but it’s true. The Metolius-Windigo trail is still blocked by snow and a few remaining downed trees that are due for cutting soon. Snow can also be found on the Kwohl Butte trail (off the South side of Mt. Bachelor) and on some parts of the 370 Road, which provides access to the Broken Top trails in the Three Sisters Wilderness area.

That said, trail clearing is progressing nicely. This is why we live in and visit Bend—the sheer volume of available single track for exploring. By mid-August, we will have access to almost 500 miles of trails within a one-hour radius of Bend. One COTA volunteer actually measured 272 miles of continuous single track accessible right from the edge of town!

One caveat to all this trail is that it can easily lure us into a sense of ease. “I just rode from town” doesn’t necessarily equate to “I’m close to help.” When you’re heading out (especially now that our little “thunderstorm season” has arrived) please go prepared. A rain shell, extra food and water and the ability to “find yourself” are just as important this time of year as any other. We still have good daylight hours, but bring a light if you are starting late or going long.

Another thing you’ll want to bring along is a sense of good trail etiquette. Our soil here in central Oregon is fragile, especially now that it is bone dry. Many trails are already the consistency of talcum powder. It is always good form to avoid skidding, but the berms you railed in the spring are now much softer; be sure to keep your tires on the firm line.

A good case in point on riding the berms is on the Whoops trail; soil on this trail is already very loose and getting softer by the day. Just the other day, I noticed the spots where riders went a little high and outside on the berms; the soil gave way and it’s pretty clear that this has caused more than a few crashes. Whoops is a really fun trail if you treat it with the respect it’s due. Please keep in mind that it’s better to come home happy and unhurt than broken. Think of all the riding you miss when you can’t ride!

Fremont in July

Myself (Woody), my son Kai, Lev, Chris K, Katy and Chris D had a great weekend in the Fremont exploring, trail working and riding. There is some important new beta on trail conditions and we were able to clear several large sections of trail to ride. Some areas have seen so little use, coupled with huge forest fires and beetle-kill the trail is no longer there. Bummer. Other sections are still very good for riding (as long as you like primitive conditions) and the flow is outstanding. Lev and I had major success clearing a large section of trail from Yamsay Mountain Roadless area all the way back down to Silver Marsh Campground. That last 12 miles is all downhill and some of it is STEEP! I LOVE this trail and can’t wait to go back. Enjoy the pics (click on each image to really check out each photo – they are worth it!)

Keep Moving: Freemont trail beckons, other opportunities abound

Hot weather and dry trails are going to be the norm now. While the snow is quickly melting away from the remainder of the summer trails, the mosquitoes are advancing as well. Trail runners and mountain bikers would do well to keep moving and avoid these bloodthirsty insects. Repairing a flat tire or stopping for a snack has a sudden new urgency.

Trails recently opened include the North Fork Tumalo Creek trail and portions of the Metolius-Windigo trail connecting to the top of Mrazek. Although there are still a few small snow patches, these will be melting soon and pose no problems for trail users. Other sections of the “Met-Win,” including the connection from RD 370 to Three Creeks Lake and from Happy Valley South to Flagline tie, are still blocked by snow and downed trees. Flagline trail remains closed until August 15 to protect elk breeding habitat.

Other newly opening trails include the Lookout Mountain and Round Mountain trails in the Ochoco National Forest, the North Umpqua Trail, the McKenzie River National Trail and the Fremont National Recreation Trail. This week, COTA is sending trail work crews to the Fremont Trail to perform some clearing work and other spring maintenance. If you say you’ve never heard of the Fremont NRT, you’re not alone. Most people haven’t. It starts near the town of Silver Lake and meanders across ridges, through valleys and over mountaintops, passing near the towns of Summer Lake, Paisley and Lakeview, finally reaching the California border 175 miles later. Visit the Fremont National Forest website for more info on this unexplored gem.

On the hottest days there’s probably no better ride than the McKenzie River Trail, which is only one hour from Bend. The cool waters of the McKenzie River can soothe even the hottest heads. More than a ride, hike or run, the McKenzie is one of those rare opportunities to travel under your own power and see true old-growth forests and more species of moss than anywhere else on earth—a special novelty for us dry siders.

If you are not yet a COTA Member, please consider joining this month. Basic membership is cheaper than a round of golf or a night out on the town. COTA relies on our members for funding and political capital. Please see the COTA website to join, www.cotamtb.com. Thanks for your support.

Be safe and have fun out there.

Use Common Sense as Riding Opportunities Expand

Know Your Boundaries

The urge to explore is irresistible to some people, but COTA recommends caution when encroaching upon this moving boundary. Crossing large snow drifts and negotiating downed trees can force you far off the trail where it is easy to lose your bearings. Even with modern conveniences such as Spot GPS, help can be hours away. It is always a good idea to tell someone when you intend to be back, never travel alone and carry plenty of water, extra food, clothing, a first-aid kit and repair supplies. It is a great feeling to challenge yourself, but it is irresponsible to rely on only a cell phone or GPS (as helpful as those are) in the absence of common backcountry sense. Being safe out there also means having more fun, so please be safe and know your limits.

One limitation comes in the form of trails with an impenetrable amount of snow and/or downed trees. North Fork trail, Metolius – Windigo and the South Fork trail are still “impenetrable.” This is especially important to mountain bikers on the North Fork trail who are only permitted
to ride uphill. At a certain point (well before reaching Happy Valley), the trail is blocked so COTA recommends not starting something you can’t finish! The trails in the Swampy Lakes/Swede Ridge area are open, including Sector 16 to connect to the top of the Whoops trail. In fact, Cog Wild Bicycle Tours is starting their local shuttle to Swampy Lakes Snow park this week.

Volunteer Call

To gain a new appreciation for the effort required to simply have trails, please come join a COTA Trail Work Event. Since our work events are held on Wednesdays at 5:30, this Wednesday, June 16, at Webcyclery, then again on Wednesday, July 7 at Sunnyside Sports, it’s very easy to become involved.

Pickett’s to Break
in Wanoga

The first XC Mountain Bike race on the new Wanoga trails is scheduled for Sunday June 27. Pickett’s Charge! 2010 Memorial XC Mountain Bike Race, an off-road race for all levels and abilities will start at 10:00am. Pickett’s Charge is race number 10 – the series final – in the 2010 Oregon XC MTB Series. Pre-registration and packet pick-up is at Sunnyside Sports – 930 NW Newport Avenue in Bend on Saturday, June 26th, from 3:00pm to 6:00pm. Check out www.sunnysidesports.com/picketts for more info on this long-time Bend mountain bike race.