K-57

Trail Trimming really is fun work.

So all the worry I did yesterday was for nothing. The trail boss showed up with the tools, gate key and 4WD. He was supposed to be in Gainesville, however, he came home at midnight so he could cover the workday. Eight (8) people showed up but two decided to ride instead of work. The rest of us didn't want to cut new trail to extend the Abyss (I still have scars on my my shin from the last time I rode this trail) so trimming was the focus today. And, like I mentioned yesterday, I rode my bike to trim the trails instead of riding out to key points and walking.

The funny part is that key points I expected yesterday, like easy trimming (meaning only a branch or two here and there) on plenty of riding (with 22 miles of trail) didn't happen. I rode out to the first section of trail and was so surprised to see the amount of trimming actually needed. It's amazing how the start of the growing season effects the vines, trees and weeds that encroach into the trail. At the end of the day I trimmed these trails: Loch Ness, Abyss, Gator Pit and parts of Golf Cart. Only 5 miles of trail and I walked most of them.

The payback will come the next time I ride these trails. The pride of knowing that section is clear and fun because of my personal efforts is one thing, however, walking a section has payoff too. I learn more about the section, including the best line through the tough parts. When you go slowly through the trails you also learn the relationship to other sections of the park, something you miss while following the leader on a club ride.

Tag: mountain biking

posted by Kev @ 4/23/2005 03:07:00 PM