Trimming Back the Nasty Stuff

This goes out a bit late, but kudos to the fine volunteers who have trimmed back poison oak on the South Yuba trail in the past month. These people include Mike Haire, Dave Lawell, George Maier and others. This time last year, the trail was badly overgrown with the nasty stuff, enough so to make it unusable to many of us. But now it is in great shape. Thanks guys!

I've been encouraging other trail users to bring clippers and folding saws with them on their hikes and rides. Local offices of federal land management agencies have seen budgets for trail maintenance staff slashed this year. Thus it is up to us to make up the difference.

On my rides, I carry a pair of cheapo hand clippers and this Felco folding saw. This saw is amazingly effective at trimming anything up to 5-6" thick. I've pruned back a lot of manzanita on trails near Osborne Hill in the past few months.

When Horses Attack!

(Just kidding with title of this posting :-)

From Joe Chavez of the Tahoe National Forest:

"FYI - The annual horse endurance event will be happing this weekend. They will be using some of the trails in the Burlington area and Pioneer Trail. They posted a sign at Chalk Bluff Staging area last weekend. Please let your club members know this will be going on. Thanks, Joe"

Please note that there is yet another equestrian event the following weekend too. So unless you enjoy hiking or riding a mountain bike through dust and horse turds, find another place to ride. Where? The South Yuba is in great shape, as local mountain bikers have spend many hours trimming back poison oak in the past few weeks.

And lest my equestrian friends think I am picking on them, let me acknowledge that the Gold Country Trails Council just put in a ton of trailwork on the Halllujah Trail extension and Rock Creek Trail. Rock on, Wilbur!

Improvements to the Excelsior Trail

Several volunteers with the Nevada County Woods Riders dedicated some quality volunteer time to improving switchbacks on the Excelsior Trail near Burlington Ridge. According to Joe Chavez of the Tahoe National Forest:

"I had two NCWR volunteers help me reroute the 2nd climbing turn on Excelsior Trail (bottom of 19 turns) on Sunday (5/20/07). They each contributed 3 hours (including driving time). The old one was too steep coming out of it and was rutting pretty heavily already."

More work needs to be done on this trail, but I am glad to see the original route improved.

Help Shape the Future of Riding in Auburn

Jim Haagen-Smit reminds us:

"Please plan on attending a workshop on May 30, 6:30 pm in Auburn - Canyon View Community Center, 471 Maidu Drive, Auburn.

The Management Plan for the Auburn State Recreation is being updated. This includes our favorite trails from Auburn-to-Cool, to the Foresthill Divide Loop."

I agree; this is a very important process and we need to work with State Parks to improve and optimize mountain biking opportunities at ASRA. These management plans are where important issues are decided, such as implementing or improving new trails, resolving user conflicts and establishing cooperation between user groups and State Parks.

Learn more.

High Elevation Trails Melting Out

On Sunday, a bunch of us rode Blue Lake Trail > Grouse Ridge Trail > Spaulding Lake Trail. For those of you who don't know this route, it sits near the junction of Highway 20 and 80 in the Tahoe National Forest and tops out at about 6100'. We encountered very little snow and enjoyed a gorgeous ride on some wickedly technical terrain. The Grouse Ridge Trail descent is as crazy as ever; "rock garden" does not even begin to describe it.

I managed to shear off my derailleur hanger early in the ride, but was able to make a completely functioning conversion to a single speed, with SS-like gearing (~32x18). So I got to experience the rockiest terrain around here on a hardtail singlespeed. Funny enough, I really enjoyed this setup and was able to ride all but a few sections.

Much beer and chips were had at Fuller Lake at the end of the ride.

It is Official: Bill Haire Rocks!

On Friday at the California Trails and Greenway Conference, Bill Haire will receive a Lifetime Achievement award for his ceaseless work on trails over the course of his career. Whether as a USFS staff member, Nevada County Land Trust Trails Coordinator or plain old volunteer, every single mountain biker on this list has benefited from his efforts on local trails. There are outstanding trails near Downieville, Bullards Bar, Burlington Ridge, Grass Valley/Nevada City, Grouse Ridge and elsewhere that would never have come to pass without Bill's quiet but relentless efforts. And sometimes, it seems that he is just getting started (or at least he likes to think so).

The next time you see Bill, be sure to thank and congratulate him. Chances are, he'll have a volunteer trail project that needs you some time in the next few weeks :-)

Pushing for Grass Valley Jumps

This afternoon, I made a very brief presentation to the Grass Valley Parks and Recreation Commission about implementing a bike skills facility on city property. This facility would be comprised of dirt jumps, a pump track, obstacles and more. Again, the commissioners were receptive and one mentioned her intention to check out the new bike skill facility in Folsom at Cummings Park. They asked a few questions about maintenance and security of such an area, but said nothing indicated that they are opposed to the project.

As is often the case with new trails, this will be a classic case of slow progress toward a fantastic final goal. I plan to remain persistent and continue to get our ducks in a row until opportunity presents itself. I am convinced that ultimately, Grass Valley will have a sweet bike skills park.

Osborne Hill Trails Threatened - Help Save Local Trail Access!

Developers have planned to implement a high density, out-of-town, expensive home development atop Osborne Hill near Empire Mine. As many of you know, this area is packed with outstanding singletrack that has been used for decades by cyclists, equestrians and hikers alike. Current plans for this development would obliterate much of this trail network with disregard for existing usage.

State Parks has expressed interest in acquiring the property and annexing it to Empire Mine Historic State Park. There are pending grant applications supported by the Nevada County BOS and the Grass Valley City Council that would make this annexation a reality. Trail users and the community would be best served by this approach, instead of another high end development far from town that shows no regard for existing trails.

WHAT YOU CAN DO:

Nevada County is accepting public comment on this proposed development. Please comment by APRIL 23 using a version of the sample letter below or your own tailored message:

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Tod Herman
Nevada County Planning Department
950 Maidu Avenue
Nevada City, CA 95959

Dear Mr. Herman:

This letter is in regards to the proposed Osborne Hill Project. As an area resident and trail user, I am very concerned about this proposal for the following reasons:

- The proposal does not accommodate or preserve existing trails or trail access. This area includes an extensive network of publicly used trails used by the community for many years.

- The proposal involves extensive grading and vegetation removal, all of which will negatively impact these trails. The plans do not address how existing trails will avoid damage from this disruptive activity.

- The proposal involves extensive construction of roads and buildings including an extensive sewage treatment field. Again, such construction will either negatively impact or completely destroy existing trails. Such impact is not addressed in the application.

- The proposal does not address if existing public trail access will be preserved in the development. Such trails should continue to be acknowledged and supported by any such proposal.

In conclusion, this application is incomplete until it fully addresses these issues. I urge the County not to accept the application until the project is sharply reduced or altered so as to accommodate public trail access.


Truly,
YOUR NAME HERE

Help Build the Rock Creek Trail

The Gold Country Trails Council will be hosting a Rock Creek Trail Work Day on Sunday, April 29, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. From the GCTC:

Bring: Loppers, gloves, shovels, hand saws, drinking water and snacks. Plan on wearing the Forest Service required "uniform" (long pants, long sleeve shirt and closed toe shoes).

Why: To complete the construction of the Rock Creek Trail that was started last fall. And to have a fun time working outdoors in the beautiful forest with your fellow club members.

Directions to Rock Creek Nature Trail Head: Take Highway 20 east out of Nevada City towards Reno. Approximately 6-7 miles out of Nevada City, turn left on Forest Conservation Camp Rd. Go about 1 mile and look for a dirt/gravel road on the left leading towards the Nature Trail. Travel down this dirt road to the bottom where the Nature Trail Parking Lot is located."

Diamond Arrow Trail Progress

Earlier this week, Bill Haire of the Nevada County Land Trust, John Rapphahn of the BLM and I scouted a route for the upper (southern) section of the forthcoming Diamond Arrow Trail. You can view a track of the route we flagged:

View upper route in Google Maps
View upper route in Google Earth

One important thing I learned on this expedition is that it may be possible to keep the entire trail on BLM property, which would make planning and construction much simpler. Originally, I had thought that the trail would have to cross the Diamond Arrow property.

This project has long been dear to my heart, as I see this trail as a great addition to the South Yuba trail system. It seems that there is some momentum now to move this project along. The BLM may have some resources to conduct the necessary environmental assessment this year. Once that is in place, we can begin construction.

The terrain that this trail will traverse is similar to other areas near Round Mountain. Lots of nice views, poison oak, decomposed granite and steep canyon slopes.

Auburn Alert

IMBA State Rep Jim Haagen-Smit passes this along:

"ALERT: Auburn State Recreation Area Update

Mountain bikers should be aware of two issues concerning riding
opportunities in the Auburn State Recreation Area. First, State Parks is drafting a feasibility study regarding the Auburn to Cool Trail. Second, the management plan for the entire ASRA is being updated. It is important the mountain bike community be at the table. That's you!

Regarding the AtoC trail, it is general consensus that the current trail alignment is too steep and not all that fun. Additionally, the current river crossing has gone away now that the river is being restored into its channel, so agencies are reviewing crossing options. What would you like to see? A big expensive new bridge? A seasonal crossing? Use existing bridges, such as the Mountain Quarries Bridge (currently closed to bikes) or Highway 49, with new well-designed, sustainable trails between Auburn and Cool. Take a moment to send in a quick comment to:

Auburn to Cool Trail Crossing Study
Attn: Jennifer Rogers
c/o Jones & Stokes
2600 V Street
Sacramento, CA 95818
Comment deadline: April 15, 2007.

Next, be a part of the update process for the management plan. Email State Parks to let them know you would like to be on the mailing list. Small stakeholders meetings last Spring and this April are including mountain bikers, as well as equestrians, hikers, etc. Based on comments received, a draft plan will be issued and public hearings will be held. Please be prepared to review the plan and attend the hearings – FATRAC will post details. To get on the mailing list, email: jmiche@parks.ca.gov

For more information on the Auburn State Recreation Area, go to www.parks.ca.gov.

Contact: Cathy Haagen-Smit at (916) 663-4626."

New Space for Trails Near Auburn

The Sac Bee ran a story on Saturday indicating that Placer County intends to acquire over 600 acres of open space near the Hidden Falls Regional Park near Auburn. The plan is to use this land as an additional location of trails and recreation. View the existing Hidden Falls Trail map (PDF).

I have not visited the Hidden Falls park yet, but I hear that it is ripe with trail opportunities and possibilities. A big thank you to Placer County for taking on this initiative! And here is another story about open space acquisition near Donner.

Auburn to Cool Trail Public Meeting

From California Department of Parks and Recreation:

"Please join us to learn more about the Auburn to Cool Trail Crossing Feasibility Study! The California Department of Parks and Recreation is exploring options to provide a trail crossing of the North Fork of the American River for the Auburn to Cool Trail. We would like your input on crossing options, including potential bridge types and locations.

What: Public meeting
When: Tuesday, March 27 at 6 pm
Where: Canyon View Community Center, Foothills Room, 471 Maidu Drive, Auburn, CA

Project Background: The Auburn to Cool Trail is a multi-use recreational trail route between Auburn and Cool. The Auburn to Cool Trail is located within the Auburn State Recreation Area and crosses the reach of the North Fork American River that has been dewatered to allow for construction of the Auburn Dam. The Bureau of Reclamation and the Placer County Water Agency are working together to build a new Pump Station and to restore the North Fork of the American River to its historic channel. When complete, the restoration of the river will allow for all beneficial uses of the river in what is now the dewatered channel, including recreation, fisheries and other in-stream uses. As a result of this project the North Fork of the American River will divide the Auburn to Cool Trail. The California Department of Parks and Recreation is preparing a study to assess the feasibility of various options to provide a trail crossing
of the river.

We want to hear from you. This meeting will allow residents, stakeholders and interested parties to learn more about the potential Auburn to Cool Trail crossing project and to provide input on the potential crossing options and locations. Please join us!

For more information about the meeting, please contact Jennifer Rogers at (916) 737-3000, ext. 3326."

GCTC Spenceville Ride

Trail Boss Mark Hicks invites you to attend the upcoming equestrian Spenceville Ride!

NEW Date: Saturday, March 24, 2007
Time: Ride out at 10 a.m.

Directions: Take Highway 20 west out of Grass Valley; turn left on Smartsville Road heading towards Beale AFB; take left fork; turn left on Waldo Road; pass shooting range; cross Waldo Bridge; bear left 4 miles to staging area on left.

Questions or planning on attending the ride? Please RSVP/contact Mark Hicks at 530-268-0799 or e-mail lislhix@jps.net. Happy Trails!

Fund Raiser for NorCal High School Mountain Bike Racing League

From Jason Moeschler:

"The NorCal High School Mountain Bike Racing League is Pleased to announce the World Premier Tour of the Mountain Bike Movie 24 Solo. This is a benefit for the NorCal High School Mountain Bike Racing League.

The movie will be playing in five locations throughout Northern California, including a stop at our very own Del Oro Theater, in Grass Valley.

By the looks of the trailer, the movie is going to be a good one. It will be a great evening to get together with the other local bike riders, and watch a good riding flick, while helping out the NorCal League.

The Movie will be playing on April 18th at 7:30pm at Del Oro in Grass Valley. For more information, to buy tickets, or to view the movie trailer, go to http://www.norcalmtb.org/."

Miners Indie Mountain Bike Team Article

There is another article in today's Union about the independent Miner's high school mountain bike team. It is very encouraging to see how well this team and the entire league has fared since they launched. Team practice rides always involve large number of kids and many members of SERT join in to help coach and mentor these you racers.

What a great way to focus your energy and time as a high school student. Way to go Miners!

Bicycle Master Plan Coming to Nevada County

Nevada County will conduct a bicycle master plan workshop on March 20, 6:30-8pm at Grass Valley City Hall. I also encourage ALL of you who ride a bicycle on dirt or pavement to attend this short meeting. If you ride the road, it is a great opportunity to ask for better riding conditions, bicycle lanes, etc. If you prefer the dirt, this represents a great chance to speak up for new trails as transportation corridors.

From Mike Woodman, Transportation Planner, Nevada County Transportation Commission:

"The Bicycle Master Plan is coming along well. Alta Planning + Design have been working on the mapping in preparation for public workshops in eastern and western Nevada County.
I have provided flyers to the bicycle shops and will be contacting BONC and the Sierra Express Bicycle Club as well. Also, a bicycle user survey is posted on the Nevada County Transportation Commission website at www.nctc.ca.gov.

The survey can be found by clicking on the "Poll" button on the bottom left of the homepage. The survey is in Adobe Acrobat format and is setup to allow the user to check boxes and fill in responses. Once it is complete it can be saved to the users computer and emailed in to me at mwoodman@nccn.net or printed out and mailed or faxed.

Hope to see you at the workshop on March 20th."

New and Improved Trails Planned

The USFS is planning to improve and add trails near Downieville, Grouse Ridge and Highway 20. To this end, they have published public scoping documents that describe these exciting new updates to our trail inventory.

The first three of the following documents have maps that describe the planned work. I suggest that you take a quick look at these documents and pass along your support to Tahoe National Forest staff:

• Pioneer Trail Re-Route
• Grouse Ridge Re-Routes and Additions
• Craycroft Trail Re-Route
• Summary of all of the above

What Do You Think?

Traditionally, trail building and improvement projects have been based on ideas from land management agencies and club leaders. But what trail projects do you think need our attention?

Use the comment feature of this blog to speak out about deserving trail work projects in and near Nevada County. Maybe we can address them in an upcoming trail work day or two.

Big Bullard's Day

If you were to ride Bullard's Bar sometime just after the next rainfall, you would probably experience the best trail conditions that system has ever seen.

Why? Because on Sunday, some 40+ BONC and SBTS volunteers joined forces to put in a complete set of trail enhancements. Check out some photos (and let me know if you have any others). The trailwork included:

• Lopping and trimming overgrowth on the whole trail system
• Improving drainage features on a number of trails, including backsloping
• Cutting a new short connector trail between 7-Ball and 8-Ball Trails and sign installation
• Removing tree stumps in various locations
• Installation of culverts on Bullard's Bar Trail

Thank you to everyone who participated, including the Tahoe National Forest staff.