With the decreasing amount of daylight and the increase in moisture falling from the sky in the late fall, some of the mountain bike trails in the area do get a little wet and may not be suitable for riding again until the other side of winter.  However, that is not true for all of the mountain bike trails in the area.  In this final cycling post of the season I offer some suggestions for which trails in the area to avoid, and which trails will remain ridable until the snow begins to fall.  As always, no matter what trail you are on, it is best for the health of the trail system to walk around wet areas.  To help make sense of some of the suggestions highlighted in this post pick up a map at either Placid Planet Bicycles or High Peaks Cyclery.  

 

On the Lake Placid Club Property also known as the "Lussi Trails" or "Caddyshack" Trails the driest trails will be "Twisted Sister,"  "Flying Wasp," "Ty's Ties," and "Lacy Underalls"  These trails are all built on higher ground and hold much less moisture than lower lying trails like "Judge Schmales" and the "Lumberyard," which at this point should probably be avoided.  "Cinderalla Story",  which begins right at the Lake Placid Club's driving range holds a moderate amount of moisture at its ends , but for the most part remains very ridable late in the season.  It may be necessary to walk around wet areas and the beginning an end of this trail.  

 

The Jackrabbit Trails through the Lake Placid Club Property, as well the Craigwood Trail System all remain suitable for riding late into the season.  The newest loops at Craigwood are still under construction.  Volunteers from the Barkeater Trails Allinace will continue to work through the month of November so please be aware of potential obstacles or trails changes.  Riders should be aware that newly constructed sections will be soft and should be walked.  The original route in the Cragiwood system is dry, free of leaves, and ready to ride.  

Craigwood Trails from earlier this summer
Craigwood Trails from earlier this summer

Over in WIlmington the sandy soil of the Hardy Road Trails sheds moisture better than any other surface in the region.  Also, the elevation in Wilmington is a tad lower so the weather can be surprisingly warmer.  The riding on both sides of the road at Hardy Road will remain well maintained by members of the Barkeater Trails Alliance as long as there is no snow on the trail.  

Hardy Road
Hardy Road

It has been a great season of cycling, and I am already looking forward to 2014 where i hope to highlight more trails and more fantastic road routes.  In the meantime, riders can always consult with our great local bike shops for the most up ot date and accurate information about riding in the area.