Roaring Fork Valley trail conditions

[funkendrenchman]

How are Prince Creek, Boy Scout, and Forest Hollow looking right now? I want to get out and ride tomorrow.

[knumbskull]

Dont even think about forest hollow for a while now, dark timber and north facing. I havent made it up yet but I'm willing to bet that the Doc Holliday to Boyscout loop is good to go or very close. I do know that the Cross trail from the 2nd bench is ready to rip.

[funkendrenchman]

I rode Red Hill today in Carbondale and it is 100% dry.

[skideeppow]

the crown is wet and snowy in places. give it a couple more days

[grskier]

I'd imagine prince area to need just a few more days.... but not 100% sure with how fast this lower stuff is melting.

[knumbskull]

Word on the street is that Prince Creek is rideable

[Nitro]

If Prince Creek is ride able, then I am riding it this afternoon. SICK!!!

[Nitro]

Prince Creek is $$$$$. Rode yesterday afternoon before the rains. It was so dry, it actually needs this moisture. If we get a break from this weather, it will be dialed.

[grskier]

Thanks for the update Nitro....
After the move I'll need to make it down there.

[knumbskull]

Prince Creek is $$$$$. Rode yesterday afternoon before the rains. It was so dry, it actually needs this moisture. If we get a break from this weather, it will be dialed.

Yeah, I got up there around 6 last night and it rode great. The top section of the creek trail, the one with the small gap jump, still has a bit of snow and mud but it should be good to go very soon!

[skideeppow]

Thanks for the update Nitro....
After the move I'll need to make it down there.

20 new forecasted bt sat afternoon, so much for riding

[Nitro]

Yeah, I got up there around 6 last night and it rode great. The top section of the creek trail, the one with the small gap jump, still has a bit of snow and mud but it should be good to go very soon!

Gap jump was so smooth. It always looks like a bigger jump than it is. Since its a step up, its over before you know it. Wish there were a few more jumps like that. There used to be, but were taken out.

Agreed, it needs just a little more melting at the very top, but after this crap weather, its over for a while any way.

[Capatain]

did anybody get out and have a look today at red hill or boyscout? I was in glenwood this morning and it sure seemed sunny and nice in town, just wondering if we can shorten our drive and hit up something there rather than going all the way to fruita and back tomorrow.
Any other suggestions for fun dry xc mountain biking between vail and fruita are welcome.

Never Mind, just heard Red Hill is dry to dusty, we'll be there tomorrow.


Thanks.

[skideeppow]

boy scout is unridable, just too shaded. You will be walking tons.

[funkendrenchman]

Prince Creek is dry except for one super small muddy spot.

[grskier]

Prince Creek is dry except for one super small muddy spot.

today?

:)

[funkendrenchman]

today?

:)

Yup. It feels like November riding there. No leaves and nothing is green.

[grskier]

Well, so much for this weekend....

[skideeppow]

15 on the ground at my house in el jebel.

[knumbskull]

About 4" on the ground and melting here in glenwood.

[funkendrenchman]

It will be good to go by Tues.

[knumbskull]

The cross trail here in Glenwood is ready to go from the top.

[skideeppow]

The cross trail here in Glenwood is ready to go from the top.

Is that what brings you across the valley back to glenwood for the scount trail.

[knumbskull]

Is that what brings you across the valley back to glenwood for the scount trail.

What I call the cross trail is the singletrack that drops from the cross that is on top of the hill on the West side of town. It is STEEP, techy in spots and fun!

Dotsero is dry and FAST as of last night!

[gunit130]

Is Boy Scout trail rideable?

I do the loop from town out to that dirt road, come up from behind, then drop the sick shit down into town... wondering how it's looking?

[knumbskull]

Boy Scout looks dry but I haven't ridden it yet. I would be surprised if it wasn't good to go. Forest Hollow on the other hand still looks a little snow covered from I-70. Roaring Fork Outdoor Volunteers is doing a trail day on Boy Scout and Forest Hollow Saturday if anyone is interested.

[JeffreyJim]

What would be a suggested ride out at Prince Creek? Never ridden it and plan to on my way through G-Wood tomorrow...

Cause the idea of climbing Boy Scout ("backwards"---off 8th) with a 33lbs bike in a 32/32 seems brutal

Thanks!

[Rontele]

What would be a suggested ride out at Prince Creek? Never ridden it and plan to on my way through G-Wood tomorrow...

Cause the idea of climbing Boy Scout ("backwards"---off 8th) with a 33lbs bike in a 32/32 seems brutal

Thanks!

I have always parked at the cattle grate, ridden the road or the singletrack immediately to your left until you reach the top (which is a ranch with a large wooden gate). The singletrack drops off the right hand side (if you are riding uphill). Follow that singletrack until it spits you out at the road. Ride down the road and look for a branch that offshoots to the right. Turn right and follow as it traverses the hillside kind of N/NW. When you see some trails dropping down to your left, enter and have fun as you ride the "downhill only" trail.

[funkendrenchman]

What would be a suggested ride out at Prince Creek? Never ridden it and plan to on my way through G-Wood tomorrow...

Cause the idea of climbing Boy Scout ("backwards"---off 8th) with a 33lbs bike in a 32/32 seems brutal

Thanks!

What time are you riding? I might be able to ride there around 11:00AM if the weather looks good.

[JeffreyJim]

Not sure. Most likely 3ish.

We should get out and ride soon though...

[shimstack]

OK fork roarers, any guesses on when gubment ('mass to ass) will be ready this year? Still a lot of snow up high? I have a fever. The only cure is more government trail.

[funkendrenchman]

OK fork roarers, any guesses on when gubment ('mass to ass) will be ready this year? Still a lot of snow up high? I have a fever. The only cure is more government trail.

June 19th? It's closed for elk calving until about that time.

[grskier]

June 19th? It's closed for elk calving until about that time.

That date sounds about right...

it'll be a while before anything on that aspect is rideable. heck, Highline even has snow on it still.

[knumbskull]

Boyscout is dry top to bottom. Any info on the Snowmass Rim trail?

[Nitro]

Rim Trail is still wet on the N-facing slopes.

I will be at Prince Creek around 4 ish today. It is riding sweet. PM me if anyone is game.

[skideeppow]

yeah i rode up from rio grand bike path to prince creek via the narly single track last night, what a grind, that single track is super steep.
Super dry and in great shape.

[Nitro]

Remember...Elk Camp Gondola opens the 19th of June!

[funkendrenchman]

I'll be at Prince Creek tomorrow morning at 10:30 if anyone wants to ride.

[gunit130]

Did it rain/snow much in Carbondale/Glenwood?

Is that Red Hill area riding?

[funkendrenchman]

Anyone wanna go to GJ Thursday morning and return by 3 PM Friday? The weather is looking nice!

[grskier]

I'm guessing after this storm the Rim will need to dry out a day or so??? Anyone up there recently?

Can't go Funken, but have fun.

[Nitro]

Road Rim Trail yesterday evening. It is $$$$$$. Remember its closed at Sinclair Rd, but up to that point....ENJOY!

[grskier]

Road Rim Trail yesterday evening. It is $$$$$$. Remember its closed at Sinclair Rd, but up to that point....ENJOY!

You rode by the house and didn't tell me :the_finge

I'll try to get up there if it doesn't rain by the end of my day.

[funkendrenchman]

Road Rim Trail yesterday evening. It is $$$$$$. Remember its closed at Sinclair Rd, but up to that point....ENJOY!

Short and sweet.

[grskier]

Rim was money last night... will probably be good Friday late or Saturday after this rain.

I'd have to imagine High Line Low Line will be good.... Village bound maybe for Chili and Brew?

[funkendrenchman]

Smuggler and the backside to Hunter Creek is ready. There's just one down tree and one snowy patch.

[grskier]

Cool, I'd have to imagine the crew will be getting up there soon.

[grskier]

Ditch -> Connector -> Village Bound was good today, weekend and didn't see another soul.

Connector has some muddy spots from some springs coming up. Village bound is a little rough in spots but overall very good.

[funkendrenchman]

Cross Mountain has some muddy spots, several down trees, and a deep creek crossing.

[grskier]

Cross Mountain has some muddy spots, several down trees, and a deep creek crossing.

Nitro and I were thinking that could be great next week or so.

[funkendrenchman]

Nitro and I were thinking that could be great next week or so.

Once the trees get cleared. Right now it ruins the flow.... but Powerline to Stark's was $.

[grskier]

Good to know, will try to get up there on Tuesday...

[grskier]

Snowmass = muddy and sloppy for now... if it doesn't rain much it could be great tomorrow evening.

[funkendrenchman]

Snowmass = muddy and sloppy for now... if it doesn't rain much it could be great tomorrow evening.

Might get over there once this week and definitely Saturday for the gondola.

[grskier]

Might get over there once this week and definitely Saturday for the gondola.

I'll be trying to do connector to the elk camp side some point after work this week and ride on Saturday as well.

[knumbskull]

Forest Hollow and Boyscout were as good as it gets last night around 6pm. All the moisture has made all of the foliage grow in very quickly. It is like riding through a lush green tunnel.

[grskier]

Snowmass is riding very well right now... nice and tacky. The new version of Adams Ave trail is going to be pretty fun!

[Knockneed Man]

I rode Sunnyside two nights ago... It was good up until 4 corners, with only a little bit of mud, but it was full bath after that with lots of downed trees. Was able to ride over some but still had to dismount about 15 times.

[funkendrenchman]

I rode Sunnyside two nights ago... It was good up until 4 corners, with only a little bit of mud, but it was full bath after that with lots of downed trees. Was able to ride over some but still had to dismount about 15 times.

Thanks for the intel...

[grskier]

Roll call for Elk Camp gondola on Saturday? I'll probably be there most of the morning depending on what happens with our meeting with the wedding caterer.

[grskier]

Good riding with Nitro and Funken on the Elk Camp Gondola... Snowmass Way (Adams Ave) is riding pretty good... needs a little more work but great for opening weekend. Too bad I double flatted on the last run :mad::mad::the_finge

[funkendrenchman]

Good riding with Nitro and Funken on the Elk Camp Gondola... Snowmass Way (Adams Ave) is riding pretty good... needs a little more work but great for opening weekend. Too bad I double flatted on the last run :mad::mad::the_finge

Ghetto tubeless.... do it! And yea, we need to rake some of those rocks outta the way. Loooooooooose....

[grskier]

Ghetto tubeless.... do it! And yea, we need to rake some of those rocks outta the way. Loooooooooose....

Was running tubeless with some stans in there.. put a hole in the front and the sidewalls on those rears were just too soft. Picked up an ardent 2.4 and a crossmax 2.25...

[funkendrenchman]

Was running tubeless with some stans in there.. put a hole in the front and the sidewalls on those rears were just too soft. Picked up an ardent 2.4 and a crossmax 2.25...

Ah, nice. I can see that trail eating up regular xc tires.

[Nitro]

Funken....I think I found a spot I like on the suspension. Went 40 up front and 140 in back. It rode great! Felt good to have my suspension somewhat setup!

Thanks for the intel! AND nice to finally meet you.

N

[grskier]

Funken....I think I found a spot I like on the suspension. Went 40 up front and 140 in back. It rode great! Felt good to have my suspension somewhat setup!

Thanks for the intel! AND nice to finally meet you.

N

What's Gravity Logic's plan?:p

[grabtindy]

What's Gravity Logic's plan?:p

werd. The Snowmass Sun article has me intrigued:
"The other two trails will be attractive to downhillers. One will descend from the summit of Elk Camp, and the other, which is being designed by a company called Gravity Logic, will descend from the top of the gondola and include a lot of manmade features. Those trails will give riders a different option than the downhill-style trails on the west side of the mountain that they now need to climb to access."

[Nitro]

tindy,

I'm looking for the article now and I'm not seeing this quote. Can you cut and paste or link to the whole article and I will comment. What I am reading here only sounds about 50% right.

[Jethro]

I was under the impression that the trail known as the "Boy scout trail" is in reality the Scout trail, with no "boy" in the name. I remember reading a plaque a few years ago, and there might have been some mention of indian scouts or something. Can anyone confirm?

[grskier]

Nitro,
That whole bottom section of the Snowmass Way trail is off of USFS :0

Let's get something going!

The new berms are looking OK....
Government to Anaerobic to Tom Blake to shuttle worked well!

[funkendrenchman]

Nitro,
That whole bottom section of the Snowmass Way trail is off of USFS :0

Let's get something going!

The new berms are looking OK....
Government to Anaerobic to Tom Blake to shuttle worked well!

What's the e-mail so I can request downhill bike traffic only signs?

And we really need some of these.:biggrin:
http://lp1.pinkbike.com/p4pb5253944/p4pb5253944.jpg

[Jethro]

Great looking corner. What kills me is that I cannot think of one mile of legal single track on USFS land in Pitkin County which is open to dirt bikes, but great trails like this can be put in for Mountain bikes. I would like to advise all two wheeled fans to let our county commissioners know how you feel about the Hidden Gems wilderness proposal (hopefully you oppose it). The wilderness advocates are working hard for the CC's backing.

[funkendrenchman]

Just to clarify, that corner is nowhere near Pitkin county.

[Jethro]

My mistake, not that it really matters. I thought previous entries linked it to the Snowmass area. Still, I hope people are opposing the hidden gems proposal as it will limit future bike trails.

[grabtindy]

Here's the link to full text. I guess it was ADN, not the Sun:
http://www.aspendailynews.com/section/home/141054

[knumbskull]

I was under the impression that the trail known as the "Boy scout trail" is in reality the Scout trail, with no "boy" in the name. I remember reading a plaque a few years ago, and there might have been some mention of indian scouts or something. Can anyone confirm?

I've heard both used and differing stories about the trail. One story was that the trail was a Boy Scout project and another was that it was an old trail used by Ute Indian scouts to access the top of lookout.

A former Boy Scout troop leader told me it was boy Scout trail when i was new to the area. Later when using that name another person corrected be telling me it was Scout Trail. The sign does say "Scout Trail".

[grskier]

FYI:
some snowmass
FYI - Snowmass opening lift served terrain tomorrow - Mountain Bike Forums

And some test footage from Snowmass
12936139

[funkendrenchman]

I wish Gravity Logic were being brought in to build a flowy DHish track with some features instead of an A-line style trail. I've seen some A-line imitations at places like Sun Peaks and Keystone and frankly, they are just not A-line. The amount of work required to maintain a trail like A-line is ridiculous and something I don't think Snowmass is up to. I'd be down with a Silky Johnson type trail, but I think A-line style isn't what Snowmass needs right now. I hope I get proven wrong.

I guess the thinking is that if Gravity Logic doesn't build a jump trail, nobody at Snowmass has the experience/time to build one and it will never happen....

[grskier]

.... I'd be down with a Silky Johnson type trail, but I think A-line style isn't what Snowmass needs right now. I hope I get proven wrong.

I guess the thinking is that if Gravity Logic doesn't build a jump trail, nobody at Snowmass has the experience/time to build one and it will never happen....

http://vodpod.com/watch/946139-trail-tour-silky-johnson

I would agree ^^^ that would be $$$$$

I think it'll be a learning process for the Snowmass folks... time will tell.

[gravityrob]

http://vodpod.com/watch/946139-trail-tour-silky-johnson

I would agree ^^^ that would be $$$$$

I think it'll be a learning process for the Snowmass folks... time will tell.


A little update: It is true that we've been hired to design a top-to-bottom jump trail. We've flagged the rough alignment and are in the process of working with the USFS to help move things forward. I've compared the design to A-Line in other forums only in so much as that it will be a jump trail and a s**t load of fun. We've come a long way since building A-Line and our new designs (in terms of a blue jump trail) are a lot easier to maintain and accesible to a lot more people. Our three newest jump trails: One in Sugarloaf (http://www.cogeyed.com/forum/topic/sugarloaf-bike-park-im-1?page=1)in New Bruswick one in Sweden, and one in northern BC (http://cog.konaworld.com/archives/4037) are examples of our best work to date. The terrain that we plan to use in Snowmass is incredible and there is huge potential for an enormous variety of trails. With any luck, the success of the planned jump trail will show the powers-that-be that not one but a variety of well planned and well designed trails are the key to a successful bike park. We'd love to be involved in more, but we'll happily start with this one. FYI, the proposed trail is over 5km (3 miles) long, will be rated Blue but many of the tables, step-downs and step-ups will be able to have double take-offs to make the trail, in essence, be blue/black. The upper third is tight and twisty with lots of berms and small features, the middle third is wide open through an incredible aspen grove and will have more tables and doubles than you can count on your fingers and toes twice over, and the bottom third twists and turns through more aspens and meadows. This trail is going to flow. Yes, the learning curve at Snowmass will be quite steep, but you can't help but applaud them for having the courage to go back to school.

Rob
Gravity Logic Inc (http://www.whistlergravitylogic.com)

[grabtindy]

That's awesome. Anything a motivated local could do to make sure it keeps moving forward? Bring shovels, write congressmen, complain to lifties, sacrifice virgins, etc?

[funkendrenchman]

That's awesome. Anything a motivated local could do to make sure it keeps moving forward? Bring shovels, write congressmen, complain to lifties, sacrifice virgins, etc?

Looking forward to it and I can also volunteer a couple days a week to help build....

[grskier]

Looking forward to it and I can also volunteer a couple days a week to help build....

Let's make sure it gets through the powers that be first....

I'd be down to do a few days of work for sure!

[grskier]

Anyone wanna ride 'mass on Saturday morning...

I want to get a few more shots up there... have an idea or two

[funkendrenchman]

Going to Basalt Mt on Sat, but looking to ride Govt tomorrow....

[funkendrenchman]

Trail update.... the trail from Basalt Mountain to Red Table Rd is unrideable due to trees blocking the trail. Also, there are a few trees blocking the decent on Cattle Creek. Most of them are obvious, but there was one I slammed my front wheel into as my brakes locked up just in time to keep me from flying 20 feet down the trail!

[grskier]

Glad you are OK funken...

They opened the Elk Camp Chair to bikes as well, although it's just the work road back down that's opened to bikes. Makes for about 2700' vert or so. S'way to gov't to powerline to blake to lowline to the bus back up was the "run" of the day though.

[grabtindy]

I rode Basalt Mtn on Monday and besides having to contend with the downed trees I ran across a VERY large bear about a mile from the fire rd on Basalt Mtn Trail. Thankfully it saw me before I saw him and took off running about 30 yards ahead of me. Fun trail though, the descent into Cattle Creek is pretty awesome.

[funkendrenchman]

I rode Basalt Mtn on Monday and besides having to contend with the downed trees I ran across a VERY large bear about a mile from the fire rd on Basalt Mtn Trail. Thankfully it saw me before I saw him and took off running about 30 yards ahead of me. Fun trail though, the descent into Cattle Creek is pretty awesome.

The descent would be awesome if the bushes/grasses were cut back and the trees were cleared.

[grabtindy]

Looked like there was some recent trail cleanup happening on the lowest portions, but they hadn't made it too far up. Def needs some chainsaw TLC back there. I had never ridden it before, but found it weird that it would go from perfectly buff to completely overgrown in a matter of a hundred yards. Sucks when you can't see any upcoming rocks/logs from grass overgrowing the sides.

[funkendrenchman]

Looked like there was some recent trail cleanup happening on the lowest portions, but they hadn't made it too far up. Def needs some chainsaw TLC back there. I had never ridden it before, but found it weird that it would go from perfectly buff to completely overgrown in a matter of a hundred yards. Sucks when you can't see any upcoming rocks/logs from grass overgrowing the sides.

... or where the trail is about to go.

[rideit]

Any of y'all know who made this video?
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[funkendrenchman]

Kinda like Sunnyside right now?

Guess so... haven't ridden Sunnyside yet because I haven't heard any good reports. IMO the trails in the valley are in pretty poor shape. There are 3 or 4 corners on Iowa Shaft/Lollipop that need some berms or reinforcement. There are a couple stretches on Gov't that could benefit from some woodwork going over mud pits. Highline trail has lots of overgrown stretches and some blown out corners. Tom Blakes is awesome, but also has a lot of overgrown brush. Not really sure who actually does any work on these trails... I am going to volunteer for the Smuggler trail day, but I don't think that will involve any work on existing trails.

[Jethro]

I think any concerned biker should carry one of these, or something similar. http://www.silkysaws.com/Silky_Saws/Folding-Curved_2/Bigboy-2000-XL-Teeth I take mine with me when I moto and mtn bike. Keep the trails clean and stop riding around fallen logs. It is kind of rewarding and fun to clear fallen trees.

[Joey Joe Joe Junior Shabadoo]

Guess so... haven't ridden Sunnyside yet because I haven't heard any good reports. IMO the trails in the valley are in pretty poor shape. There are 3 or 4 corners on Iowa Shaft/Lollipop that need some berms or reinforcement. There are a couple stretches on Gov't that could benefit from some woodwork going over mud pits. Highline trail has lots of overgrown stretches and some blown out corners. Tom Blakes is awesome, but also has a lot of overgrown brush. Not really sure who actually does any work on these trails... I am going to volunteer for the Smuggler trail day, but I don't think that will involve any work on existing trails.

Right now I think it is just the RFOV that does most of the work and RFMBA just works with them (along with open space and the FS but those two groups are spread pretty thin.) I haven't been too active with RFMBA beyond the RFOV workdays so I'm partly to blame but it seems with all the mtn bikers in the valley they could organize their own work days and get really good turn outs. With just the RFOV doing most of the work days there is no way all the trails can get the attention they need.

[funkendrenchman]

If you have the time, volunteer next Saturday July 24th to build some new trail segments on Smuggler! http://www.rfov.org/smugglertrails_2010

[grskier]

Most of Sequel has been rebuilt... it's awesome... may have some footage by the end of today.

[funkendrenchman]

Most of Sequel has been rebuilt... it's awesome... may have some footage by the end of today.

Yep, looking a lot better.

http://lp1.pinkbike.com/p4pb5458289/p4pb5458289.jpg

[grskier]

13992288

a poor edit.. using some of the older footage (^^^), plus some of sequel...

[Knockneed Man]

Guess so... haven't ridden Sunnyside yet because I haven't heard any good reports. IMO the trails in the valley are in pretty poor shape. There are 3 or 4 corners on Iowa Shaft/Lollipop that need some berms or reinforcement. There are a couple stretches on Gov't that could benefit from some woodwork going over mud pits. Highline trail has lots of overgrown stretches and some blown out corners. Tom Blakes is awesome, but also has a lot of overgrown brush. Not really sure who actually does any work on these trails... I am going to volunteer for the Smuggler trail day, but I don't think that will involve any work on existing trails.

I rode the Iowa Shaft last Thursday and the forest service had about a half dozen dudes up there with chainsaws. I asked them if they were cutting out the beetle kill, and he told me sort of, but that they were removing any trees that were encroaching or presenting a danger to the trail. I've to say... they removed a SHIT LOAD of trees... looks like the logged stumpville of Kobey Park up Lenado.

[funkendrenchman]

I rode the Iowa Shaft last Thursday and the forest service had about a half dozen dudes up there with chainsaws. I asked them if they were cutting out the beetle kill, and he told me sort of, but that they were removing any trees that were encroaching or presenting a danger to the trail. I've to say... they removed a SHIT LOAD of trees... looks like the logged stumpville of Kobey Park up Lenado.

Huh, I rode it today and didn't even notice.

[grskier]

Sequel is closed up on Snowmass.... there is a little tear in my eye right now because even though you either needed to pedal or take a shuttle back up to the lift it was 10 steps in the right direction for Snowmass. Rumor is a high powered person from the valley complained to Aspen Ski Company, the USFS, and to TOSV elected officials. I didn't ride over there today, but I hear it's "torn out and they are starting revegetation." Please, if you have ridden Snowmass this year and enjoyed the steps in the right direction, please find a few email addresses and express your frustration, I know I will.

[grabtindy]

FKNA this valley pisses me off sometimes. Some little twat got upset because people are actually using the mtn they bought property next to and the have to ruin it for everyone? What nature of complaint could justify undoing all that hard work? We're already 10 years behind every other year round resort area in terms of mtn biking, why set us even further back? I'd take my business elsewhere, but we're 2 hours from the nearest legit lift served spot.

SO fucking lame.

edit: for the record I have no idea why they would choose to close the trail, but I can only assume its some bitchy homeowner who probably hikes up the Tom Blake trail and hates all the traffic the trail realignments have added.

[skideeppow]

Sequel is closed up on Snowmass.... there is a little tear in my eye right now because even though you either needed to pedal or take a shuttle back up to the lift it was 10 steps in the right direction for Snowmass. Rumor is a high powered person from the valley complained to Aspen Ski Company, the USFS, and to TOSV elected officials. I didn't ride over there today, but I hear it's "torn out and they are starting revegetation." Please, if you have ridden Snowmass this year and enjoyed the steps in the right direction, please find a few email addresses and express your frustration, I know I will.
remind where sequal is?

[funkendrenchman]

remind where sequal is?

Between Govt/Powerline and Govt/Anaerobic off of Govt.

[grskier]

Between Govt/Powerline and Govt/Anaerobic off of Govt.

Which already put more people doing lift serve on Tom Blake anyway.



but I can only assume its some bitchy homeowner who probably hikes up the Tom Blake trail and hates all the traffic the trail realignments have added.

Pretty much...

[funkendrenchman]

Anyone wanna ride Prince Creek tomorrow? I'd really like to go with someone who knows all the trails there... I know I'm missing quite a few and would like to link them up.

[knumbskull]

Funken, be ready for some mud!

[funkendrenchman]

Red Hill is definitely the only major trail in the valley that's rideable. There are a few sections on the Northside Loop and Rollercoaster/Fairie that are slimy, but the rest of the trail is all-world tacky!:yourock:

[funkendrenchman]

Red Hill is 100% dry. I'm thinking Prince Creek should be good in the next week and Rim trail is probably 2 weeks out?

[knumbskull]

Father of Ginormous and Ginormous were ripping Sunday. Creekside was still muddy.

[gunit130]

How's boy scout trail?

[knumbskull]

Its actually Scout trail not Boy Scout trail. Common misconception. I havent been up there yet, however it looks dry from the summit of Lookout. Forest hollow on the other hand is such dark timer I wouldn't give that a shot for another week or so.

Red Mountain aka the Cross trail is good to go. Someone has been doing maintenance and they've done a great job. There is only a 300' or so patch of snow that is easily walked around. Please walk your bike around it even though it looks like you can ride around it off the trail.

[funkendrenchman]

Rode Smuggler today just to do something and it looks like Hunter Creek is still 2-3 weeks out (as expected). Sucks having to drive 40 min to go for a ride...

[Nitro]

Prince Creek is $$$$. Thanks to some of the new builds and the new trail! Well done folks. If you haven;t ridden Prince Creek, it should be on your list of to-dos!

[gunit130]

http://www.trailfu.com/mountain-bike/colorado/carbondale1/prince-creek/Default.aspx

I'm just a moron, but couldn't find it last time I went there.

What's the mileage and vert on this?

[brettf]

How recent is this work Nitro?

[knumbskull]

http://www.trailfu.com/mountain-bike/colorado/carbondale1/prince-creek/Default.aspx

I'm just a moron, but couldn't find it last time I went there.

What's the mileage and vert on this?

Never rode it with a computer. Where did you look for the trail last time you were there? It starts right at a cattle guard shortly after the road turns to dirt.

[grskier]

It's also right next to the road... sorta hard to miss... better options for the down from about half way down.

My bike is in the shop until Monday, hope to get out a bunch next week...

Anyone wanna show me my new backyard ride of Basalt Mountain when it melts out?
Anyone wanna help build a little pump track on my property this summer?

[skideeppow]

^^^ i can show you around basalt mtn, the long loop is probably got some snow on it, but the lower loops are probably good to go

[grabtindy]

Anyone wanna show me my new backyard ride of Basalt Mountain when it melts out?
Anyone wanna help build a little pump track on my property this summer?

Yes and yes. Memorial Weekend?

[grskier]

Yes and yes. Memorial Weekend?

Counting on it ;)

Wait until you see the new grill.

[Shredhead]

Anyone have the inside track on skiing on Ajax next weekend? My connection is in the DR and out of the loop. How about Indy, they going to get it open by next Friday?

I would love to make some turns and do some riding, but no announcements, makes it hard to plan.
Heading to the Bird tonight!

[funkendrenchman]

Anyone have the inside track on skiing on Ajax next weekend? My connection is in the DR and out of the loop. How about Indy, they going to get it open by next Friday?

I would love to make some turns and do some riding, but no announcements, makes it hard to plan.
Heading to the Bird tonight!

Paper says an announcement will come by tomorrow afternoon. It's snowing right so, so I'm gonna say it will be a go.

[grskier]

Indy should be good, and I wouldn't be surprised if Ajax is open ( ;) ) Mem. weekend starting on the 28th

[Shredhead]

Thanks guys! That's kind of what I figured.

Is Rim Trail ready?

[funkendrenchman]

Indy should be good, and I wouldn't be surprised if Ajax is open ( ;) ) Mem. weekend starting on the 28th

Think Indy will open on time?

Rim trail is definitely not ready yet.

[grskier]

Think Indy will open on time?

Rim trail is definitely not ready yet.

Well, we'll see what this cycle brings... they are past the last switchback on this side (upper lost man th). as of this am when our crew went up to take a look around.

[Nitro]

How recent is this work Nitro?

Forgive me...I ride there all the time and only know the names of three trails. However, This new trail....is up the midway road. You go past the Horse trough trail...keep climbing about 10 min and its on your left marked by a rock on the ground. Not sure when this trail was put in, but I just learned about it and ride out there a lot. Either way...whoever did the work should be commended!

Then some new features were put in on the lower trail with all of the banks and jumps (Ginormous?). This trail pops out on "HubCap" a little bit before the car ride. I would think most of this work was done at the end of last season.

[Nitro]

Thanks guys! That's kind of what I figured.

Is Rim Trail ready?

Latest beta on Rim Trail is (Even before this snow) once you climbed up from Mtn View to the bench, you go right into waist deep snow! I think Rim is out for weeks.

[Riverdown]

And given that ^

May as well do this: http://www.aspentimes.com/article/20110519/NEWS/110519812/1077&ParentProfile=1058

[grskier]

Well, maybe this weekend a few laps at Prince Creek will be in order... should dry out fairly quickly down there.

[knumbskull]

Even after all the moisture last week Prince Creek was prime Sunday. I have never seen it so tacky, even all the usually loose corners. I bet its in great shape tonight or tomorrow.

[grskier]

Basalt Mountain isn't quite ready yet (not that I really thought it would be). You can get 3 miles up the road until you hit too much snow... then the 1937 trail has snow in the valley still, made for an adventure.

[grabtindy]

Prince Creek is prime right now. Props to whoever has been doing all the trailwork up there. Some fun new features on Ginormous.

[Bean]

Protip: the fun-looking mud bog about .8mi up from the parking area at prince creek is not drivable

http://throughpolarizedeyes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/IMG_0872.jpg

[funkendrenchman]

Give the Lollipop/ Iowa Shaft loop about 7-10 days. Still several piles of snow and mud.

[grskier]

Protip: the fun-looking mud bog about .8mi up from the parking area at prince creek is not drivable

http://throughpolarizedeyes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/IMG_0872.jpg

Oh, that's awesome... I'll have to put that up here in the office.

[grskier]

OK, the new trail above ginormous is just so sick it's not even fair. If you are coming into town for chili and brew you should stop in carbondale on your way in and ride Prince Creek.

And I never rode to the top of the Crown before, so we did that last night too... about 1800' vert from where you park bellow the cattle guard.

[JDatSMV]

1st half of the Rim trail is dry all the way to Sinclare rd. Also the work road going to the top of the Gondola is dry.

[knumbskull]

And I never rode to the top of the Crown before, so we did that last night too... about 1800' vert from where you park bellow the cattle guard

I've ridden a trail from the top of the crown through an aspen grove that you could tie in to Father of Ginormous. I don't know if I could find it again but it's off the left side of the road as you are coming down from the top of the crown.

Also, rode Cherry Creek last night. There are still some snow patches in the top shaded sections, and there is a fair bit of deadfall. We cleaned up what we could by hand but it still needs a lot of work. That being said, it was worth it. Good shreds were had.

Also, Bear Creek to Forest Hollow to Scout is $$$ right now. Arounds 5 deadfall crossings but its in great shape other than some bad rutting in the descent to Bear Creek.

[grskier]

I've ridden a trail from the top of the crown through an aspen grove that you could tie in to Father of Ginormous. I don't know if I could find it again but it's off the left side of the road as you are coming down from the top of the crown.

Also, rode Cherry Creek last night. There are still some snow patches in the top shaded sections, and there is a fair bit of deadfall. We cleaned up what we could by hand but it still needs a lot of work. That being said, it was worth it. Good shreds were had.

Also, Bear Creek to Forest Hollow to Scout is $$$ right now. Arounds 5 deadfall crossings but its in great shape other than some bad rutting in the descent to Bear Creek.

There are a few trails up there, not as maintained as some of the lower ones... we just rode the road half way back down...

Where is cherry creek?

[knumbskull]

Cherry creek is off of Buford Rd N of New Castle. Kind of a haul from Glenwood, let alone Aspen. However its a 2000' vert shuttle descent with a good variety of flow and a few rock gardens. You could pedal up the road if you are in to that sort of thing.

[grskier]

Cherry creek is off of Buford Rd N of New Castle. Kind of a haul from Glenwood, let alone Aspen. However its a 2000' vert shuttle descent with a good variety of flow and a few rock gardens. You could pedal up the road if you are in to that sort of thing.

shuttle.... I could be down for a shuttle lap or 3..... to make it worth burning all of those fossil fuels....

[knumbskull]

Forest Hollow got cleared out last night by a canadian buddy who goes back to canada tomorrow. Go figure. No more deadfall crossings.

Next time I go to Cherry Creek I will have to brings my chainsaw.

Keep us updated on the upvalley trail conditions as they melt out. I think Hay Park may be good to go soon.

[funkendrenchman]

Cherry creek is off of Buford Rd N of New Castle. Kind of a haul from Glenwood, let alone Aspen. However its a 2000' vert shuttle descent with a good variety of flow and a few rock gardens. You could pedal up the road if you are in to that sort of thing.

I rode it early season last year and it is really fun, but there is a section of some pretty aweful mud. As the season goes on the trail gets a lot of horse traffic and ends up getting torn apart. I wish it received a little TLC and the horses rode elsewhere.

[grskier]

Rode Basalt Mountain again last night, got 6ish miles up (not really positive), probably around .5-1 mile from the top... anyway, rode back down the road and dropped in on another trail that was super fun... a little greasy through the middle, but super fun.

[131crew]

Forest Hollow got cleared out last night by a canadian buddy who goes back to canada tomorrow. Go figure. No more deadfall crossings.


That's too funny...

[knumbskull]

http://img30.imageshack.us/img30/2166/img00477201106121324.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/30/img00477201106121324.jpg/)

Uploaded with ImageShack.us (http://imageshack.us)

Might as well make use of the deadfall

[skideeppow]

Was up in the crwon last night with my dogs and there were hundreds of cows all over the place.
My dogs dont chase wildlife but that did not stop them from rolling in the shit that was allover the trails

[grskier]

Yup, the Cows are out in full force around Crown/Prince Creek... my jersey was NASTY when I got home after my last ride up there...

[knumbskull]

Word is someone cut out all of the deadfall, except for one tree, from Cherry Creek Trail. I'm sure all the snow is gone by now too.

[Nitro]

Cherry Creek.. This is that trail above New Castle? We should get a crew together to ride it soon. I would love to have someone show me where it is and the route. Sounds like a killer ride.

[knumbskull]

Yeah it's the one off of buford road above New Castle. There is also a trail called the Mansfield Ditch Trail on the other side of the ridge from Cherry Creek. It is very similar to Forest Hollow and can be tied in to the lower part of Cherry Creek if you pedal over a saddle separating the two. I'd be up for showing people the trail, especially if I got a shuttle out of the deal!

[Nitro]

I can bring the 4-runner. I'm sure Grskier is down as well. Lets see if we can make this happen with/in the week. Would be fun to meet some of you guys.

[grskier]

I can bring the 4-runner. I'm sure Grskier is down as well. Lets see if we can make this happen with/in the week. Would be fun to meet some of you guys.

Up at the lake part of the weekend camping, let me know though, I'm down for a few laps.... Friday night could work I think...

[knumbskull]

I could do Friday after work. It's a 20 minute drive outside New Castle so the earlier the better.

[grskier]

Anyone been up on Snowmass yet?

[zmeseke132]

new to the board - i live in gwood and work in in new castle. i'm heading up to snowmass today to ride the rim trail. if any of you head out to new castle/rifle area and don't mind a tag along let me know. i've never ridden out there.

[Nitro]

Snowmass still has some closures until Monday. As far as whats dry and rideable now:

Upper and Lower connector (with new reroute...very cool)
Powerline
Starks
Ridge section of Tom Blake
Rim Trail South (Rim Trail North opens Monday)

Still Snowy or wet or not maintain yet:
Cross Mtn
Govt trail
Village Bound

Lift served terrain:
Sway and Powerline (Sway is pretty soupy)

Gravity Logic begins work on the new trail Monday!!! Pray people pray that this is the home run we have been waiting for!!!

[funkendrenchman]

How is Vapor looking? I know it's snow covered, but will it be a fun trail?

I rode Droste today and it was much better than last week. The rain really helped ... it will be super fun when the bumps get smoothed out. At this point I would suggest riding up from Highline and turning around once you see doubletrack. The ridge section isn't worth riding.

[Nitro]

How is Vapor looking? I know it's snow covered, but will it be a fun trail?

I rode Droste today and it was much better than last week. The rain really helped ... it will be super fun when the bumps get smoothed out. At this point I would suggest riding up from Highline and turning around once you see doubletrack. The ridge section isn't worth riding.

Yes...Vapor is done & fun. Just need the snow to melt for it to open.

[funkendrenchman]

Rim Trail is bumpy and overgrown at the moment. Watch out for 3 downed trees.

[grskier]

Vapor the trail off the chair?

[Nitro]

Vapor the trail off the chair?

Yup...Vapor Trail comes off the top of the Elk Camp Chair to bottom of Chair. Latest Beta from my earlier post:

Funken.....I agree, too many folks got on Rim Trail South while it was wet....really sad. The Rim Trail North just opened Monday. Hopefully a trail crew will get in there shortly.

Powerline is dry and ripp'n!

Tom Blake East of the Gate (Section the just opened) is very wet in many places. I saw tracks, but I turned around at the first mud pit. This is one of the best sections of trail anywhere. Please wait for it to dry out everyone.

I'm going to give West Gov't a shot this afternoon and see how it looks since the East side of the mtn still has more drying out to do.

[funkendrenchman]

Government has about 5 downed trees and a couple of muddy areas.. and the creeks are obviously really high. If someone hits it with a chainsaw it should be good in about a week.

[funkendrenchman]

Hobbit, Secret, and Sunnyside are all good to go! (besides one downed tree on the Sunnyside descent I stopped 6" in front off). Amazingly, there are still two piles of snow (9800 ft) beside the Van Horn singletrack.

[grskier]

I'm guessing I need to head up to the top of Basalt Mountain sometime next week and go explore a little... Haven't ridden the longer trail up there yet. Should be good/really close to good to go now.

[funkendrenchman]

I'm guessing I need to head up to the top of Basalt Mountain sometime next week and go explore a little... Haven't ridden the longer trail up there yet. Should be good/really close to good to go now.

Bring a folding saw!

[Riverdown]

Government was good Sunday with GrabTindy, FWIW.

[funkendrenchman]

They just opened a really small section of the Gravity Logic trail (off of Govt and Powerline). Right now it's just a couple of big berms and 4 or 5 tables, but oh man, I had flashbacks to A-line. This trail is gonna be sick! Maybe they can redesign some of the other trails too....

[grskier]

Bring a folding saw!

We hiked/biked from the bottom... got about 4-5 downed trees up.. then turned around and descended... what a fun ride... even if we only did the bottom 1/3

Oh, and I heard about the grav logic... you riding tomorrow? you going out tonight?

[knumbskull]

Rode the Vapor trail and Gravity Logic preview trail at Snowmass today. Vapor is a fun ride, reminds me of a toned down Silky Johnson. The gravity logic trail is going to be amazing when it goes top to bottom elk camp. Just like A-line, perfect berms and nice tables. Really excited to ride the finished trail.

[grskier]

Rode Snowmass on Saturday.. Vapor will be really nice when the bumps get worked out a little... The gravity logic trail is going to be awesome.. I just need to learn how to jump off of takeoffs that steep.

[grskier]

Actually, I do want to throw this out there...

Are they going to maintain these trails like they have in the past? Because it's been pretty minimal. I remember talking to Funken about this last year, and we figured S'way was going to get ridden in a bit and smoothed out in some spots, when in reality, very little has been done since it was cut in. I'd hate to see all this time and effort put in to see the same level of maintenance to Vapor and the Gravity Logic Trail...

[grskier]

So, now that I've ridden the gravity logic trail... I must say I'm stoked on what they are doing... it flows like the.... well, you get the idea.
These are of the Gravity Logic Trail, which should be open from it's current "preview" to the bottom by this weekend....
Nitro said something as he went by about suns and guns....
http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/184193_10150274400177042_106030702041_7546606_6992 50_n.jpg
photos by Jeremy Swanson

Nitro laying it over:
http://a4.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/254719_10150274400302042_106030702041_7546610_7350 041_n.jpg

Jason having fun on the tables
http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/223995_10150274399982042_106030702041_7546600_5526 955_n.jpg

Nitro again... clearing the double
http://a1.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/262857_10150274400237042_106030702041_7546608_4000 684_n.jpg

chase is on
http://a4.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/283351_10150274399852042_106030702041_7546594_6606 76_n.jpg

[grskier]

One last one from the gravity logic trail for good measure:
http://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/285019_10150274400272042_106030702041_7546609_3757 956_n.jpg


The new vapor trail is starting to smooth out a little, still a bit bumpy for anything in the lower end of the travel scale.... but it's pretty fun.

http://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/253346_10150274399302042_106030702041_7546573_4860 660_n.jpg
Joe:
http://a2.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/198704_10150274399522042_106030702041_7546583_4658 035_n.jpg
Digi
http://a2.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/262453_10150274400357042_106030702041_7546613_4884 070_n.jpg
Joe
http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/263302_10150274399562042_106030702041_7546584_8316 391_n.jpg

me
http://a6.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/226119_10150274400142042_106030702041_7546605_5295 721_n.jpg

[grskier]

http://a1.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/285223_10150274400077042_106030702041_7546603_6004 605_n.jpg


and the last one for today
http://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/285299_10150274399772042_106030702041_7546592_4760 93_n.jpg

I'll post up some video skico has done here tonight... I also filmed the gravity logic trail for a while... I don't have time to edit it down now though.

[knumbskull]

They are building that trail fast! They are planning on building it up to the top of the gondy right? When is that slated to be done?

[grskier]

I 'think' they are going to focus on the last few hundred feet to the bottom first to get it done before MSC is there... to at least have something to show off, and yeah, it's going pretty fast now, they had 2 mini-excavators going last I heard.... I think the top will take a few weeks at least after that, as that's a good distance from where the preview starts at govy and the gondi.

[funkendrenchman]

Can't freakin wait!

[mbizzles]

Rode Snowmass today. My first DH experience. Have to say I'm pretty stoked!!!! I'm just getting into it and got my first real bike (Titus El Guapo from Mr. Toad on here...it rocks).

Warmed up on Powerline. And then did a couple laps on the Gravity Logic Trail. It was pretty awesome. And I only flew Superwoman style through the air once. I have to remember to keep it under control a bit more than I do skiing. It hurts more when you fall on/into dirt/rocks/trees...than snow.

So, I'm still a gaper, but hope to contribute to this thread more.

[Lloyd Braun]

we rode G. Logic today....3 laps....can you say amusement park?

[skideeppow]

Rode Arbaney Kittle from tavern to basalt and back to the tavern. Talk about a slog. 5 hours in the saddle on my xtc3 hard tail 29er.
Did not get lost and the second part of the trail from Triangle peak to Basalt is epic.
Give it a try

[funkendrenchman]

Rode Arbaney Kittle from tavern to basalt and back to the tavern. Talk about a slog. 5 hours in the saddle on my xtc3 hard tail 29er.
Did not get lost and the second part of the trail from Triangle peak to Basalt is epic.
Give it a try

Send me a PM next time you want to go through that hell.

[Jethro]

Rode Arbaney Kittle from tavern to basalt and back to the tavern. Talk about a slog. 5 hours in the saddle on my xtc3 hard tail 29er.
Did not get lost and the second part of the trail from Triangle peak to Basalt is epic.
Give it a try

Did you go up the Triangle Peak road, or the Lenado access road out of the old Vagneur ranch?

[knumbskull]

Also, did you take the reroute around the ridge on the second half? When I rode it there was a ton of downed timer shortly after triangle park rd then it was scrambling with the bike over the shoulder across rocks and ledges on the ridge. The views of Ruedi were nice though. I greatly preferred the first half.

[Nitro]

The Gravity Logic trail is so fun! Its pretty cool to be able to take a lunch run and do two laps!

What is complete is probably a little more than half to 2/3's. There are still 2-3 switchback to go below where it is now and the upper section, which they have begun building already, will start just below the Gondola. If anyone is up here and wants to take a lap....LMK

I have a Go-pro of it. Will post as soon as my techy guy gets it compressed.

[skideeppow]

Also, did you take the reroute around the ridge on the second half? When I rode it there was a ton of downed timer shortly after triangle park rd then it was scrambling with the bike over the shoulder across rocks and ledges on the ridge. The views of Ruedi were nice though. I greatly preferred the first half.
Still tons of downed trees, just have to bush wacka bunch.
we went to the south west of the rock fin then climbed up. Pretty easy to locate. It was a long ride.
John we took it up lenado, to traingle peak then made the right hand turn where you bush wack, there is a trail sign now. It certainly does not get ridden much. Lot of vegitation on it.
We did not get lost which was amazing.

[grskier]

Still tons of downed trees, just have to bush wacka bunch.
we went to the south west of the rock fin then climbed up. Pretty easy to locate. It was a long ride.
John we took it up lenado, to traingle peak then made the right hand turn where you bush wack, there is a trail sign now. It certainly does not get ridden much. Lot of vegitation on it.
We did not get lost which was amazing.

You went up to Lenado, stayed on the road up through Kobey Park then down Arbaney to Basalt is what I'm reading right? Anyone GPS it? I've always been curious about this...


Rode Basalt Mountain (Mill Creek) again two nights ago, was in great shape.

[knumbskull]

I found some ones gps track of the route.

http://connect.garmin.com/activity/104524518

[goldenboy]

Rode S Thompson/Braderich Creek outside Redstone last weekend- didn't look like anyone had been on it in years, lots of downed trees. Too bad, too, because it seemed like a pretty sweet trail otherwise.

[grskier]

Rode S Thompson/Braderich Creek outside Redstone last weekend- didn't look like anyone had been on it in years, lots of downed trees. Too bad, too, because it seemed like a pretty sweet trail otherwise.

S Thompson Creek area... probably hasn't seen much traffic. I've never even heard of a trail over there.

[Shredhead]

When does the Snowmass Gondi close for the season?

[goldenboy]

S Thompson Creek area... probably hasn't seen much traffic. I've never even heard of a trail over there.

I've been hearing rumors of epic riding in Redstone for years- I was psyched to check some of it out, though it wasn't everything I hoped it would be. Quite a few people ride over there from CB, just trying to explore new terrain. What we rode was actually in a RFV guidebook, though there are other routes there, for sure. With a little work, it would be a nice loop from Carbondale and back on the highway. I started calling the trail "Moments of Brilliance" in my head, because it definitely had those moments. Few photos here. (http://14erskiers.com/blog/2011/08/marble-merriment-aug-5-7-2011/)

[skideeppow]

^^^ s thompson creek, you mean you take the single track behind the ovens?
I have done that a number of times but not in aout 10 years. Pretty nice ride, especially the ending that brings you back onto 133.

[grskier]

I've been hearing rumors of epic riding in Redstone for years- I was psyched to check some of it out, though it wasn't everything I hoped it would be. Quite a few people ride over there from CB, just trying to explore new terrain. What we rode was actually in a RFV guidebook, though there are other routes there, for sure. With a little work, it would be a nice loop from Carbondale and back on the highway. I started calling the trail "Moments of Brilliance" in my head, because it definitely had those moments. Few photos here. (http://14erskiers.com/blog/2011/08/marble-merriment-aug-5-7-2011/)

Copy... thanks for the info.

[goldenboy]

^^^ s thompson creek, you mean you take the single track behind the ovens?
I have done that a number of times but not in aout 10 years. Pretty nice ride, especially the ending that brings you back onto 133.

Yeah, couple of miles up the FS road from the coke ovens at the coal basin trhd.

[grskier]

When does the Snowmass Gondi close for the season?

I think September 4th they call it... Kind of a bummer, but understandable from a $$ aspect.

[Shredhead]

I think September 4th they call it... Kind of a bummer, but understandable from a $$ aspect.

Thanks! I'd like to ride the new trails, but might not make it out by then. Might shoot for Ruggerfest instead?

[grskier]

The climb to the gravity logic trail isn't too bad.. you could do either village bound or ditch - connector - village bound to cross mountain or govy and hit most of it...

[Nitro]

Here is a go pro of the lower part of the Snowmass Gravity Logic Trail:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GIPDMT8em6g

[Nitro]

Bump because everything in the Valley is riding sick!!

[Jethro]

I just rode Miller Divide and Rocky Fork Friday. Miller divide rode really well, with only two logs to dismount for. We built a large mound of logs over one fallen tree about 3 feet high. The start of Rocky fork rode nicely. There is one fallen tree in the section down to where the valley makes a hard left hand turn. We cut a bunch of 5-8" trees out in the upper section. Very few people have been down the trail this summer, and the trail is matted down vegetation in the fields and Aspen tree sections, but the pine sections are pretty sweet. This trail needs some riders on it to buff it out, or define where it is. Wear shin guards for the descent of Rocky Fork. The thorns and thistles made a mess of my legs. It would be nice if some outfitters ran some pack animals up the trail or it had some moto poaching. I might see what I can do about the latter. After the third stream crossing if you do RF from the top, or the second stream crossing if coming from Miller Divide, the trail looses it's gradient and is tougher going. Probably under ten fallen trees left, but they are of chainsaw size.

[Nitro]

Whats the word everyone?!

Any beta on Mushroom Rocks?

[knumbskull]

I haven't personally been up there but I would guess Red Hill is dry as a bone. Call Aloha Mtn Cyclery to confirm.

[Nitro]

UPDATE:
It is officially "Game on" in the RFV. Road Mushroom Rocks yesterday and there is enough dry trails to make for great riding! Everything to the closer and back except for the "Fierey (sp)" trail" is good to go. I thought I'd only be able to ride up Red Hill and back, but ended up connecting plenty and doing a few laps up and down Roller Coaster and then out and back to the closer for a 1.5 hour ride. Trails are sweet and actually getting dusty in places. I think Prince Creek will not be far behind.

[funkendrenchman]

UPDATE:
It is officially "Game on" in the RFV. Road Mushroom Rocks yesterday and there is enough dry trails to make for great riding! Everything to the closer and back except for the "Fierey (sp)" trail" is good to go. I thought I'd only be able to ride up Red Hill and back, but ended up connecting plenty and doing a few laps up and down Roller Coaster and then out and back to the closer for a 1.5 hour ride. Trails are sweet and actually getting dusty in places. I think Prince Creek will not be far behind.

Gonna check out Porcupine and The Crown on Friday.

[grskier]

Between Sunday and yesterday the rode up to porcupine, trough, and father of ginormous went from having several big muddy spots to one short one... I'm guessing the rim trail road (porcupine) is good to go in most spots.... the shady and north western aspects still have some small piles of snow.

[skideeppow]

Any beta on scout trail down in glenwood?

[Temagami]

Had an awesome first day at Red Hill / Mushroom Rock last weekend. Faerie was good to go, and had a great descent on Blue Ribbon.

[knumbskull]

Any beta on scout trail down in glenwood?

Scout is good to go, if a little overgrown in the top section, from the antennas down to town. Love that trail! I bet Forest hollow is close, if not dry already. However, I would expect a lot of deadfall.

It seemed like the whole valley showed up to Prince Creek Saturday. And for good reason, it was good to go. Father of ginormous and creekside are shready. A funny mix of dusty dry and small snow/mud patches.

[grskier]

Basalt Mountain is getting close... You can ride up the road to just short of the drop in for Mill Creek. Another few days and the road will be clear of snow and a few weeks you'll probably be able to ride Mill. The lower loop may be ready mid next week.

Prince Creek is getting dusty and loose already :(
Did a father of ginormous to ginormous the other day and was a bit surprised how dry it was. I guess with no snowpack on a bit of that trail for a few months already will do that.

Rim trail is good to go from the Mountain View apartments (Brush Creek Rd Intersection) to Sinclair. I haven't ridden it yet but know a ton of people that have.

[skideeppow]

^^ Yeah, dusty this SUn for sure. Was on the trail at around 11:15 and ran into 3 guys dirt biking, MOTO. Just hammering the trail.
We rode from Basalt, Prince Creek, Porcupine, to Outi to rock bottom range.

[Nitro]

SNOWMASS UPDATE 5/18/12:
Entire Rim Trail is dusty dry and open (NOTE NEW OPENING DATE OF 5/16)!!!
All Dry and riding SICK!!!
Connector
Village Bound
Cross Mtn
Powerline
Starks
Skyline Trail (Droste)

USFS closure still in effect till June 21 on Govy East and Tom Blake

[Riverdown]

And Droste. Don't forget Droste or whatever it's called.

[skideeppow]

Just rode the new single track from the top of hay park to west sopris creek. Holy shit, 45 minutes of DH, no joke. Must be 10-12 miles long. 95% dh.
This trail is hands down the best ride in the valley and I would say it rivals monarch crest.
Some friend of mine put it in last year.

[Nitro]

Just rode the new single track from the top of hay park to west sopris creek. Holy shit, 45 minutes of DH, no joke. Must be 10-12 miles long. 95% dh.
This trail is hands down the best ride in the valley and I would say it rivals monarch crest.
Some friend of mine put it in last year.

I heard this was a shuttle. Whats the beta? Parking? Route finding?

[grskier]

Inquiring minds want to know...

Nitro, what day after works for you this week?

[skideeppow]

I rode the full loop. At the end there is a 3-5 mile climb back to the car.
I would say this is a ride that someone has to show you for two reasons.
1. The entry to the trail is non existance and takes some bush wacking.
2. Two or three times during the ride, the trial ends. With no sign of where to pick it up.
I would be happy to get a group ride together and show you guys. I am heading to AK for Kings and Corn on Wed, back the following Thurs. So could do it that weekend.

This trail rivals Monarch Crest, it is that good.

[funkendrenchman]

Sign me up for the tour!

Sent from my DROID BIONIC using TGR Forums

[knumbskull]

In for the tour.

[Rontele]

Is the Hay Park trail a social trail or actual FS trail? Also, anyone know about the trail from the top of Thompson Creek down to Redstone?

[grabtindy]

Consider me signed up for the tour.

[grskier]

I'm in for the tour too...

[skideeppow]

OK, ill post up here when i am back and if sat or sunday works best for me.
That is if you dont find anyone else who can show you earlier.

[Nitro]

OK, ill post up here when i am back and if sat or sunday works best for me.
That is if you dont find anyone else who can show you earlier.

I'm in also, but slammed with the concerts this Fri-Sat. This Sunday could work for me.

Just keep me in the loop.

[skideeppow]

I'm in also, but slammed with the concerts this Fri-Sat. This Sunday could work for me.

Just keep me in the loop.
Im talking a week from this weekend

[grskier]

The stuff on the other side of Cattle Creek on Basalt Mountain is in good shape right now... may be time to explore on Saturday and see how that way upper stuff is

[Nitro]

The stuff on the other side of Cattle Creek on Basalt Mountain is in good shape right now... may be time to explore on Saturday and see how that way upper stuff is

What what what!??!! Yes....this is Snowmass. Rausch and crew building a drop zone at the end of the GL trail. Including this Gem "The Fruit Bowl!!" Its worthy.

117097117098

[grskier]

The actual creek (the one you've crossed before) not the trail.. that would be the way out stuff...

[funkendrenchman]

Im talking a week from this weekend

Sat early or Sun late would work best for me.

[grskier]

This was just posted today by Aspen/Snowmass:
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/392503_10150961629982042_2049187044_n.jpg

New Wall ride feature....

[knumbskull]

That looks awesome! Can't wait to shred the G-Logic trail top to bottom.

[funkendrenchman]

Anyone else know about this new trail? Would love to check it out on Monday.

[grskier]

https://vimeo.com/44314764

https://vimeo.com/44314764
44314764

one of the previews..

[grskier]

https://vimeo.com/44314764

https://vimeo.com/44314764
44314764

one of the previews..

The wall ride:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4nt5gfTSn-w&feature=plcp

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4nt5gfTSn-w&feature=plcp

[mbizzles]

^^^Nifty. I need to get these fucking stitches out my ankle and then it's on!!!

Love to see the final pics of the end "play area."

[Cross]

Valhalla is a decent trail. Snowmass is off to a good start. Valhalla the jumps can be easily overshot(squash the shit out of them and still barely catch backside with the rear tire) then others you have to work for. The dropzone is a little weird, to carry any speed into it takes work. I am hoping it is just early and they have some more dirt work to do before it is really finished. I just cannot wait to get some actual DH trails. Valhalla you need no more then a hardtail or 6" bike. Most I talked to running DH bikes switched back to their trail bike if they had one. I loved running the hardtail all weekend, even the Vapor trail is a blast on the hardtail.

Valhalla top to bottom POV
xDsysejIr1U

[skideeppow]

29'er work on these trails or is the geometry off?

[Jethro]

A coworker went big on some jump on Valhalla yesterday and snapped his Rocky mountain Slayer's swingarm.

[skideeppow]

I rode the secret dh again today off the top of hay park. Trail is easy to find, but not easy to stay on.
I would still recommend riding this with someone who knows it, there are two or three key turns that are not marked.
Here is my description.
Going to the top of hay park, you will see the trail off to the left prior to the cattle gard at the top of hay.
Climb for 10-15 minutes, then the DH starts
The first confusing turn, you come into a field(about 15-20 minutes into the ride) (there where tons of cows there today) and the track ends. Look at the other end of the field and you will see a hanging animal spine off a tree. There is the trail.
Ride that down, you will parrallel bard wire then come to a fence. Hop the fence and goto the left on the double track (you are heading north/ne here, dowhnhill.
This is fast DH and you will come up onto a right hand turn here. The is a metal USGA marker hammered into the ground here. You make a right. Dont miss this.
More DH, then you come to a slight split, the right hand part of this is less traveled. It has a barbed wire fence up. You want to go this way. If you miss this you will end up at the bottom of a hill with a cow water tank and a PVC pipe feeding it.
Turn around climb the hill and you will see this turn that you missed on climbers left.
That is the last turn.
I rode this at medium speed and it was 45 minutes of DH. Pretty sick.

[funkendrenchman]

Valhalla = B+/A- Line. I found the trail to be super fun, and after a lap or two, was comfortable with the slightly variable takeoffs. A 6" bike is defintely the way to go. Props to Gravity Logic for building a cool trail. Hopefully they will add a couple bigger options in the future (a la A-line).

[funkendrenchman]

Skideep, what do you do at the end of your directions? Is this a shuttle or loop?

[skideeppow]

either way. loop in about 6 iles of on road riding back to car. Shuttle is easier. YOu can meet up at old school house in emma.
Either way, you end up on west sopris creek

[grskier]

an early edit that Digi posted up:


https://vimeo.com/45219983#at=0

[Rontele]

Coming up next Thursday night to Carbondale for a breakfast meeting in Aspen Friday morning. Bringing the bike, but doubtful I will make it up Thursday night to ride.

My meeting is in the Red Mtn area of Aspen, so I assume Hunter Creek area is the best place to ride thereafter and then hop over the pass back to Denver? Any recommended loops?

[grabtindy]

Snowmass Freeride just posted this, but I think it's actually down at Sunlight. Looks pretty fun either way. Also, just heard they're putting in a BMX track in Crown Mtn Park, near the current dinky pumptrack. There's a ton of fill that just got dropped off there.
119198

[knumbskull]

Looks like that pic is in the Basalt area looking towards Sopris, hard to tell. Not Sunlight though with the large commercial looking buildings so close.

[grabtindy]

Whoa, you're totally right, that's willits on the left in the background. I should know better, that's where I live. Must be up above the treefarm/waterskiing pond. Interesting, guess it's private land, gotta go make some friends.