Well we've had a "what do you ride" thread, so the next logical step is a "where do you ride" thread. I know that STT staff/membership comes from all across this great country, so I'm interested to know where everyone rides and what kind of terrain/challenges are offered in your neck of the woods. We're obviously not in mountain country here in Southeast Michigan, but there are multiple trails, ranging in length from 3 - 22 miles, that offer a surprising amount of elevation. My favorite trail is a loop approx. 10½ miles long featuring many different stunts including a "crater" and log piles ranging from 8" to 4' high at their peak. Add to that the roots, and more roots, along with some rock gardens, trees, and challenging climbs littered with loose dirt (and did I mention the roots?), drop-offs, and switchbacks, and it's really a great place to ride. So, what kind of terrain do you commonly ride?
Well you guys are gonna say "Monte sucks...." but here we go. From Oct - April I ride SW Utah. Specifically: Gooseberry Mesa - Friggin Awesome Slickrock with conecting single-track. No epic climbs or kooks like Moab, just a network of 45+ miles of ride your ass off slick rock with tons of moves per mile. Little Creek (like Gooseberry, this is a developing trail system and maybe even better than Gooseberry when its complete!) From our door in Virgin, I ride: JEM Trail Hurricane Canal Trail Goulds Rim Trail Guacamole Trail Rockville Bench/Slickrock Swamp Flying Monkey Trail Now the why I don't suck part... If ANYONE wants to come out and ride when we're here, it's a $15 shuttle ride from Vegas to here and you have a free guide service (that would be Bonnie and me...). This stuff is all ranging from 3500 to 5300 feet i elevation. The air is a bit thinner...
I ride Alum Creek in Columbus, and I rode Reagan and Huffman in Medina and Findlay State Park in Wellington when I lived in Cleveland. All are 2-8 mile maintained singletrack with random manmade features in public parks.
Nick, the 10.5 mile loop you mentioned, is that Lake Shore Park in Walled Lake? I also live in Farmington Hills, MI and I'm looking for more places to ride. Any suggestions would be appreciated.
Yessir. Lakeshore it is. I normally alternate between there and Maybury, heavily favoring Lakeshore. I do hit Island Lake every now and then, but I find that place kinda boring overall. Still need to get out to Poto, Brighton, and Milford this Summer. I have no idea how to access the Milford trailhead though (maps aren't clear), and don't wanna make the drive just to turn around and come right back home 'cause I can't find the trail! lol Where do you stay in Farm. Hills? If you're interested in riding one day, lemme know.
I am at 14 mile and Orchard lake. I haven't been out in a while, but I agree Lakeshore is pretty nice. I went to Brighton a few years back and recall it being a pretty good workout. Lots of hills compared to Lakeshore. I'm definitely interested to go riding with you, but I need to get the bike out and dust it off first so I don't embarase myself!