2008 4th of July Trip – Harrisburg PA
Biked at:
Southern Traverse – outside of Staunton VA – 34 mile IMBA Epic Ride on the Shenendoah Mtn. Trail. This was an interesting ride. It was a 4 mile climb to the Shenandoah Trail. Once on the trail I was surprised at how well it was taken care of considering how off the beaten path it was. There were two sections of rock gardens surrounded by stinging nettle (be careful not to touch). Once you hit the clearing at the Jerkemtight Road option you have an almost all downhill ride to the next road that intersects the Shenandoah trail (great downhill that would be great in a group ride. I’m sure there would be countless hoots and hollers. We hit the road at mile 20, took a left onto the dirt road, and then started the 12 mile slog back to the car. It seemed like we would never get back to the car.
Visit the Susquehanna Area Mountain Bike Association (SAMBA) for info on the following places.
Swatara State Park – Nicely groomed trails. A good 6.5-7 mile ride. Not too challenging. It would be a fast mtb. xc course. Similar to Explore Park.
Weiser State Park – Rocky single track, jeep roads, and snowmobile trails. Would be a good place to ride if you had a suggested route. Reminded me of the Dragon’s back minus the lung busting climbs.
Govenor Dick – We ran and biked here. These are some rocky trails. Trail 15 is one crazy ride. Lots of big rocks to maneuver over. I really like the ride on trail 15. It was pretty technical. Lots of black raspberries here for a mid ride snack!
Michaux – Supposed to have some of the toughest trails in the east. Lots of rocks here. Reminded me of the Glenwood Horse Trail near Roanoke. We stopped by the Pine Grove Furnace Park office to get some maps and recommendations. We ended up riding off of Ridge Road. We also had some old race maps from http://www.racemichaux.com I would suggest getting a local to give you a suggested route. We spent a lot of time looking at our map. This place was loaded with blueberries. They were everywhere. Nice treat.
Rocky Ridge County Park – For a county park this place has it all from beginner to advanced trail. Lots of fun.