Memorial Day - Epic Riding

Today Alex, Patrick, Shawn and Jason made the trek out to Alafia River State park. In the end we figured we did about 13 miles and had a great time doing it.

River Loop
Alex, Patrick, and I headed out and did the River loop, which is an approximately 3.1mile loop. It is interesting to note that the GPS does get lost as most all the trails in this park are completely covered, so the distances reported often appear shorter than they really are. The River Loop is considered an "advanced beginner" trail, although I don't really feel it is too much more difficult than Sand Pine (true beginner's course).

Google Maps:River Loop

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Last night it apparantly dropped a ton of rain out there, because it was absolutely soaked. I can't remember slipping and sliding my way through a trail any more than I did this morning. At times it was a blessing, at times it was a royal pain.

About the time we finished up the River Loop, Shawn and Jason had arrived at the park. We finished up the River Loop and headed back to the trail head.

Rock Garden
We decided that our next run would be the Rock Garden, labeled blue on the map, meaning "intermediate". Quite honestly this trail doesn't feel that much more difficult than the river loop, although there are a few extra drops and some much more difficult root options. This trail is quickly becoming my favorite. Lots of tight turns, a bridge or two to roll over and a nice long trail to get your heart rate moving on.

Google Maps: Rock Garden X2 as we rode the trail twice :)

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The trail to get out of Rock Garden and back to the multi purpose trail is a royal pain in the butt. Carry lots of speed and be in the right gear, or cry when you make it to the top.

At this point we decided to ride the trail again, although Patrick decided to head back to the cars to relax a bit. I don't get tired of riding Rock Garden!

Time for a break
We all agreed that our next trail to hit would be North Creek and as such headed back to the trail to relax, refuel, and rehydrate. Did I mention that it was 90+ and that the humidity was absolutely unbearable? Yeah, the riding the trails is sooo worth it, I just wish I had this bike back in the winter months.

The break complete, we headed onto our next challenge - North Creek.

North Creek
North Creek is just a tick harder than "advanced intermediate" with lots of crazy roots, options to end up in the water, off the side of a hill, HUGE roots, and an insane staircase at the beginning of the trail. If you are a novice rider, you can probably do the trail, just be prepared to dismount often! Additionally, proper gear selection is a must. While Sand Pine, River Loop, and Rock Garden I ride 2x6, North Creek demands 2x1 or 2x2 for most of the entire length, as you must have the gear available to tackle some of the climbs. You must know when going uphill you must lean forward and pedal hard, with steep drops, you must put your arse behind the seat and know your brakes.

Google Maps: North Creek

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Alex faired pretty well for his first time on this trail, getting caught up at all the normal novice spots. Jason did well except for the goose egg he got from catching the pedals at a bad point. I feel I did pretty well (especially well since the last time I rode this trail). I can see this becoming a favorite as I increase my skill level.