Trail Conditions in Detail - Theodore Wirth

[charliebrown]

Just be cold and snowy through Sunday night, I am taking my last ski trip to Lusten this weekend...

[nord0306]

I went out this morning and put up the orange fences again. The trail is closed until further notice.

thanks
Adam Nordell

[mn_ultra_guy]

FYI
I rode by on the path yesterday and peeked in at the South loop and both fences, and the orange tape have been ripped down. I did not see if anyone had left tracks.

[nord0306]

thanks, I'll buzz by there tonight with my hammer...

[Wheels]

Thanks Devin,

Just a friendly reminder/explanation as to why the trails get closed - it's primarily because we here at MOCA are self-rightous ego maniacs who want to police when and how anyone else can ride the trails...

Actually, it's because this is the one time during the year that you can do the most damage to the trails. Putting down just one single track in the goose poop that's lying on top of the trail will cause a rut that will collect the rains that are sure to come soon.

Then, that water sits in the rut, while the rest of the trail is dry - and we either have to keep the trails closed longer, go out to fix the rut so that the trail will dry, or it dries before we get a chance to fix it - meaning we have to dig down just to the water to run off.

I just want to say thanks to Jay at Hollywood cycles for refusing to work on muddy bikes, especially the guy who bought a bike - only to bring it back two days later covered in mud, complaining that it doesn't shift right... If you see ruts at the River Bottoms, this guy was one of the perps.

Also to Geno, Hurlio, and the rest of the Mpls. core riders who have spread the love and passed the message - that riding now is bad for everyone and only prolongs the fun come dry season.

Those who feel above all of this talk of "sustainable trials", and responsibility to the community and life of the trails - I assure you, you are most definitely in the minority.

Please stay off the trails until we open them up.

[bovaddict]

need any help working on them?

[Wheels]

Thanks Alex,

We will need help in the very near future. Unfortunately (despite my recent post), the trails are getting quite a bit of poaching while closed... there's going to be a lot of trail to fix very soon.

To continue with more reasons why we have the trails closed right now (see my previous post)...

With all the damage we've had to the trails already this year, regular spring maintenance will take twice the time of what it would have been if people would have just stayed off the trails (even more time if it gets any worse).

That delays the building of the the new Dump loop trial/pump/expert area, and ultimately throws off the new construction on Zone 6 (expert/challenge loop).

Selfish people ride muddy trails, so yes - those of us who build and maintain them have a right to be upset. The selfish people rob us all by delaying the opening of the system, creating more work for those who are honest riders/stewards, and delay the building of more trail.

They also make it harder for the land owners to trust us to police ourselves, thus making it harder to convince them that we deserve more trail - and that have the time/resources/support to maintain them.

Thanks losers, enjoy your poach on the trails we built.

[bovaddict]

well let me know asap so i can help either repair or build im free this weekend and should be next week as well

[bovaddict]

edit: repost..

[mb598]

I am free as well most anytime on the weekends LMK

[jitterjepp]

Is wirth open? Its been pretty cold lately. I drove a 20 ton lift across the parade ground at Ft. Snelling yesterday and didn't even leave a tire mark.

[mb598]

I doubt it's open it prob still needs some work

[jitterjepp]

I doubt it's open it prob still needs some work
The ground is frozen. There is an 11 degree wind chill. Riding wirth now will have absolutley no ill effect.

[bovaddict]

ya but 11* is cold..

[Shorty]

The ground is frozen. There is an 11 degree wind chill. Riding wirth now will have absolutley no ill effect.

Highly doubt Wirth is rideable. Can't explain your experience at Ft. Snelling, but the dirt in my backyard is mud.

What time of day did you drive the lift?

The sun is strong enough now that it heats up the ground even at low temps.

[jitterjepp]

Highly doubt Wirth is rideable. Can't explain your experience at Ft. Snelling, but the dirt in my backyard is mud.

What time of day did you drive the lift?

The sun is strong enough now that it heats up the ground even at low temps.About 8 am , about 10 am, about noonish, about 3pm about 4pm.


Your back yard may be mucky for any number of reasons but generally when it gets below freezing and there is a 15mph wind things don't stay mucky.
We've also had overnight lows in the teens. With temps that low and no sign of the sun to heat the ground....its pretty basic science.

I'm gonna go check it out.

[rideharder]

your saying you drove a 40,000lb machine across grass and it didnt leave marks or its rated at 40,000lb? i find that highly unlikely being that anything at that weight would leave marks frost or not. there is a big difference between breaking through the truf to leave ruts and compacting the soil and leaving indentations. either way wooded clay at wirth and sandy linestone open to sun will drain differently. a bit of a fish story if i must say.

[jitterjepp]

your saying you drove a 40,000lb machine across grass and it didnt leave marks or its rated at 40,000lb? i find that highly unlikely being that anything at that weight would leave marks frost or not. there is a big difference between breaking through the truf to leave ruts and compacting the soil and leaving indentations. either way wooded clay at wirth and sandy linestone open to sun will drain differently. a bit of a fish story if i must say.Yeah it leaves a mark in the grass but when its frozen? duh?.. Have you ever even driven any heavy equipment on frozen terrain. Gee....why do they have to heat up the ground to get a back hoe to dig a hole when the ground is frozen? Maybe because its frozen.
Do your shoes sink through the ice when its frozen. I wonder how hockey skates work then. Hmmm...

I'm just asking if the trail is open. I dont' really need any crap. If you don't know then you don't have to reply.
However I will be out at FT. Snelling on Monday morning at 8 am and I should be there all day long except between 11am and 12noon. We are working on the historic part. The ground will be frozen. Come in through the old wooden gate and ask where the metal guys are at or ask for Shawn. I will get in the lift and drive it around and you can see if I am a liar. You are more than welcome to stop by and I am serious about that.

[jitterjepp]

I just got home from wirth and its a bit mushy now. When I asked earlier it was only 20 degrees and the sun was a bit lower in the sky. Whatever...


BTW Paul when you drive a car in the ice does it leave tire indentations?

[nord0306]

Please stay off the trail!

I am sure that there may have been a few hours in the last few days where the whole trail is completly frozen, but in general it has soft spots that will rut when ridden.

Please stay off the trails for another few weeks and I'll be sure to announce when it is open. Do not post up that it's okay to ride without talking to me first.

We will be doing work soon, however, with this recent cold spell we aren't able to do any official trail work sessions. Watch this thread or PM me your email and I'll add it to the trailworkers email list

thanks!
Adam

[mtnbykr]

blah blah blah..... I just got home from wirth.....blah blah.... i know everything...

wow, this is a first on the forums. riding closed trails and then posting about it.

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[rideharder]

Yeah it leaves a mark in the grass but when its frozen? duh?..

no need to get your panties in a bunch. i just think that you statement is a bit out there. i have been the field for the last three week and with the cold nights the crews havent encountered any more that 4 inches of frost in the morning but by afternoon its all gone. i have driven/operated everyting from tractors to semi truck. i was in the 49ers for a few years as well as the local 563 so i do know what im talking about and i yet to see a 40,000 lb machine not mar the surface frozen or not. sure your shoe wont make a print in the ice but then you are compairing apples to oranges. now if you said you lift was 6000lbs and was operation cap. was 20tons that would be different. just stick to your metal and keep the soil sciences to us excivators and planners.

[jitterjepp]

no need to get your panties in a bunch. i just think that you statement is a bit out there. i have been the field for the last three week and with the cold nights the crews havent encountered any more that 4 inches of frost in the morning but by afternoon its all gone. i have driven/operated everyting from tractors to semi truck. i was in the 49ers for a few years as well as the local 563 so i do know what im talking about and i yet to see a 40,000 lb machine not mar the surface frozen or not. sure your shoe wont make a print in the ice but then you are compairing apples to oranges. now if you said you lift was 6000lbs and was operation cap. was 20tons that would be different. just stick to your metal and keep the soil sciences to us excivators and planners.I came here asking a question. I wanted to know if the trail was open. I've driven all that stuff to. Big deal. Who cares. I was talking about my experience yesterday on a lift. Being in the 49ers, being a planner or and excivator doesn't give you any qualifications to say what happened while I was driving a peice of equipment yesterday because you wern't there. So you actually don't know what you are talking about.

[deepindakotacounty]

wow, this is a first on the forums. riding closed trails and then posting about it.

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I was baffled myself when I saw his post, thinking maybe it was a joke. I don't know about him, but even though I wanted to go riding a lot lately I've been reading on here about all you guys that work on the trails and I respect that fact and don't want to ruin the trail before the season is even started. I think that everyone needs to remember that we will have over 6 good months of dry riding (May-November). Last year we didn't even get any substantial snow until late December, so that gave us almost 7 months of riding.

I hate waiting but I sure do love Lebanon, and it's because of all the volunteers! (BTW - I plan to attend some trail work days this summer.)

[jitterjepp]

wow, this is a first on the forums. riding closed trails and then posting about it.

http://www.hdforums.com/upfiles/smiley/WTFsgign.gif (http://javascript%3Cb%3E%3C/b%3E:void%28opener.addSmiley%28%27body1%27,%27http ://www.hdforums.com/upfiles/smiley/WTFsgign.gif%27%29%29;%20self.focus%28%29;)Did I say I went riding on the trail? Where did I say that? Did I ask is the trail closed? Did I get and answer? You know you guys don't have to act like pricks all the time. You can just answer a question and if you don't know you dont' have to banter me. If I wanted to ruin the trail I could have done that and I never have. You guys really turn people off with this whole omni potent trail protector crap.

Earlier in the week I offered some wood to build gates for the trail when its closed. It was 2 x 10 (actual) douglas fir planks that were about ten feet long. Now this crap?

The ground has been frozen all week. Usually when the ground is frozen the trail is open. Am I wrong about that?

[jitterjepp]

I put words in peoples mouths. blah..blah...blah...blah.

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I know I saw it.

[Shorty]

I came here asking a question.

The problem is with this statement:
The ground is frozen... Riding wirth now will have absolutley no ill effect.

[jitterjepp]

The problem is with this statement:Why if it IS frozen? We ride the trail all winter dont we?

[jitterjepp]

The problem is with this statement:Then say that and explain it.

[Shorty]

Then say that and explain it.

I thought I did:

Highly doubt Wirth is rideable. Can't explain your experience at Ft. Snelling, but the dirt in my backyard is mud.

What time of day did you drive the lift?

The sun is strong enough now that it heats up the ground even at low temps.

This really isn't worth arguing about. The ground isn't frozen enough to open the trail.

[jitterjepp]

Hey guys thanks for the real straight answer, putting words in my mouth and the ganging up at the end. See you at trail work. Some folks say you guys like doing that here. I usually brush them off. Hmmm

[Shorty]

Shawn - Sorry if my posts weren't clear, or they made it feel like you were getting ganged up on.

[DmacBmac]

Hey Shawn,

When you can find the time come help us do some trail work at Theo this year, and I will be happy to explain and show you first hand why the trail needs to be left alone at this time. No ganging up just one on one trail session with you and me and the importance of trail management.

Hope to meet you soon, Don

[jitterjepp]

Hey Shawn,

When you can find the time come help us do some trail work at Theo this year, and I will be happy to explain and show you first hand why the trail needs to be left alone at this time. No ganging up just one on one trail session with you and me and the importance of trail management.

Hope to meet you soon, DonGee Don I've been out there a few times, gone to all the Park Board meetings and got up and said my part....
I get there when I can. I've been doing trail work at Theo since 1996. Maybe I know a few things. If you can find anything on google cashe on MTBReview from about 2000 you will see me asking people not to do re-routes because of the flooding in sections of the trail that don't even exist anymore. I came here asking a question. All you guys have for me is crap. This is exactly how you guys drive people away who want to help but some of you can't get it. I don't really care for people leading on like I'm a trail wrecker. I also don't like the big turn off you guys do with people and the big gang ups. Get lost. Not for nothing but why the hell would a guy want to help any of you after that crap? Can you think of a good reason? I know of about five people right now who can't find one and wont show up for trail work anymore. If you want trail workers act like it.

[jitterjepp]

Hey Shawn,

When you can find the time come help us do some trail work at Theo this year, and I will be happy to explain and show you first hand why the trail needs to be left alone at this time. No ganging up just one on one trail session with you and me and the importance of trail management.

Hope to meet you soon, DonBTW I'm not sure if it was the last trail work session of last year or not but I helped rake the leaves off the trail. I don't remember seeing you there. I saw Mara, Shad and I think Chris and one other person was there. Where were you?

[DmacBmac]

I am 6'3" and 250lbs if you didn't see me your blind!!!! I was there all year, or did they make me a Dirt Boss there because I bought them a 12 pack of beer?

Some people's kids.:eyeroll:

[nord0306]

Please do not post anything in this thread that does not specifically relate to the condition of the trail.

As of right now this trail is closed. I will announce when it opens again. If you have reason or evidence of the trail being ready to be open and I haven't opened it yet, please PM or email me and I will consider that. You can post in this thread something about the condition of the trail, but do not say it is open or ready to ride.

thanks
Adam

[gopherhockey]

Please do not post anything in this thread that does not specifically relate to the condition of the trail.


There has been some heated discussion here in the last day. I split out those posts as best I could and moved them to the thread that Pete started yesterday.

Please keep this thread for trail conditions only.

Adam has stated that Theo is CLOSED. Until someone hears otherwise, respect the trail closure. If you think the trail needs to be evaluated please contact Adam. If you don't understand or want to discuss, go to this thread:

http://www.morcmtb.org/forums/showthread.php?t=20716

Any additional discussion here will be immediately deleted. This is a trail conditions thread.

[Wheels]

Just returned from a trip to the trails, both to inspect them as to their current condition.. .and to meet with, and escort a writer and photographer doing a story about urban trails. The Theo trails are being used for the example, although there are 30 cities with trails.

Anyway, if you happened to see a group of 8 or so riders out there today, that was us - and we didn't ride any trails that were soft or muddy.

The overall condition of the trails is spongy to slick - and although some spots are rideable, we're going to keep them closed as there is no way to make an entire loop without getting into some really deep muck.

So, provided it stays dry and warm - we're estimating an opening some time next week. We'll need to make another inspection ride on Monday or Tuesday and let everyone know.

We want to get riders on the dirt before it completely dries out, that's the best time to knock down the ruts and smooth things out - so we'll get you all out there ASAP.

Thanks for you patience and cooperation.

[Trevize1138]

Sweeeeeeeeeeeeet :)

[bovaddict]

hows it look?

[Trevize1138]

hows it look?

I just got back from riding out to Theo, biking the ski trail loop and spot-checking some known problem areas. I don't want to say anything without Wheels' ultimate decision except that I'm cautiously optimistic. But, please note:

THE TRAIL IS STILL CLOSED. I'm in no position to make any decisions about anything. I'm just posting what I've observed on a spot-check. It could be there are parts of the trail I didn't see that aren't ready for riding at all.

[col200]

Dang! You're giving me major Blue ballz right now Chris!:crazy2:

[Trevize1138]

Dang! You're giving me major Blue ballz right now Chris!:crazy2:

*sigh* If I had a freaking dime for every time some guy said that to me ... :eyeroll:

[manual63]

*sigh* If I had a freaking dime for every time some guy said that to me ... :eyeroll:

I've never said that to you.....because you have always let me ride. Wait, did that sound bad??.....:scream:

[Trevize1138]

I've never said that to you.....because you have always let me ride. Wait, did that sound bad??.....:scream:

Shad, if comments like that are wrong I don't ever want you to be right.

[col200]

I KNEW I've seen you two at Theo before....didn't see any bikes though:D

[Trevize1138]

I KNEW I've seen you two at Theo before....didn't see any bikes though:D

That's because we were working on the trail. *cough*

[manual63]

That's because we were working on the trail. *cough*

Yeah, the long tool we had with us was a pulaski.......honest....it was....:kiss:

And the video camera was just to show how it's used.

[steef]

I'll probably be checking on the trail conditions sometime tomorrow, hopefully in the am, certainly on my way home.

[Wheels]

Trails are open.

The signs still say closed because the locks are seized shut and I couldn't get them open. I'll have someone cut them if we have to - but I took all the tape down.

Enjoy, but remember - the trails are just now dry enough to ride. Opening them now while they're firm, but still a bit soft should help to smooth the poacher ruts. Please tread softly.

If it rains anytime soon, in any substantial amount - we will probably make some temporary closures - but let's keep our fingers crossed.

[sich0015]

I cant wait to get out there!!!

[Standard]

Provided the conditions don't change, I'll be out there around 4:30 to break in the new ride. yeeha

:banana:

[Trevize1138]

I'll be there at Noon! :banana:

[Nickel]

There after work, say hi to the slow gal.

[col200]

I'm there around 4:45. Got my new baby blue inbred, can't wait to give 'er it's first ride at Theo!:)

[RiverRat]

Try hosing the lock down with a bunch of tri-flow or boeshield (or your preferred bycicle lube). It's a good idea to do that periodically on all locks, especially outdoor ones.

[Trevize1138]

Hmm ... looks like I may have to ride after work as well as at noon. :)

[manual63]

Let's try to set a standard here for our Trail Conditions thread. I am starting a new thread called, Trails are open. Post up your excitement there. Let's keep this thread for posting conditions.

That being said, if you see wet spots, trouble areas, trees down, or know if the trails are wet, dry, tacky, or whatever, please post here and update the trail conditions (link on home page).

Thank you!!

[Trevize1138]

Let's try to set a standard here for our Trail Conditions thread. I am starting a new thread called, Trails are open. Post up your excitement there. Let's keep this thread for posting conditions.

That being said, if you see wet spots, trouble areas, trees down, or know if the trails are wet, dry, tacky, or whatever, please post here and update the trail conditions (link on home page).

Thank you!!

I rode it just now and it's just a tad soft overall but good! Tomorrow it should be nice and tacky and about perfect.

No wet/greasy spots although on the first of my two total laps my rear tire did slide out on some corner in the Twister section.

The decision to open was definitely good! :banana:

[steef]

After what Chris said about his second trip out there yesterday, I had to stop by this morning on the way to work. It's noticeably drier than last night. :banana: I swear some spots were getting dusty already. ;)

[flombe]

3 laps tonight with all-around beautiful conditions!

95% in excellent tacky condition! One soft spot at the top of the downhill in White Pine Flyer, a couple of random loose corners. You'll find them and it will really help to minimize damage to scrub your speed at these areas on your subsequent laps.

Tonight was as busy as Theo ever gets, but not congested whatsoever. Many riders, both male and female. This is great to see!

Once again, the excellent trail conditions this early in the spring are a testament to the sustainable design and hard work of trail volunteers who built Theo. Thanks again to all of those responsible!

[bovaddict]

only saw one spot a little muddy but it was maybe 15-20 in a really shady area.. really nice trail! see you guys tomorrow

[mb598]

It did start to get a little busier as we were leaving but everyone there was very considerate. I agree with the scrubing speed the shadier areas were pretty soft you'll know when you see them

[mn_ultra_guy]

I rode both the South and North loops tonight around 7 PM and I have a few comments:
1. The trail very nice and fast.
2. Right before you hit the exit on the North loop, there is a Y shaped tree/stump on your left that in my opinion needs to be trimmed back. I cleared the branch at head height, but at the expense of my left shoulder impacting the lower branch. This could very dangerous for a beginner. I will leave it to the trail stewards to decide.
3. The guy in the Penn Cycle jersey needs to realize this is not a race and that we all have been off dirt for several months. Please slow down and when someone lets you by, do not be an a$$ and say thanks.
It was great to be on dirt again and here is to a great summer!

[flombe]

I rode both the South and North loops tonight around 7 PM and I have a few comments:
1. The trail very nice and fast.
2. Right before you hit the exit on the North loop, there is a Y shaped tree/stump on your left that in my opinion needs to be trimmed back. I cleared the branch at head height, but at the expense of my left shoulder impacting the lower branch. This could very dangerous for a beginner. I will leave it to the trail stewards to decide.
3. The guy in the Penn Cycle jersey needs to realize this is not a race and that we all have been off dirt for several months. Please slow down and when someone lets you by, do not be an a$$ and say thanks.
It was great to be on dirt again and here is to a great summer!

I am glad you mentioned the deadfall shortly after the jumps before the exit. I was thinking the same thing last night! Sorry to hear you hit it. It is angled just right to rip a rider's head off if they lean over too far on the left-hander after the jumps.

Regarding saying "thanks" after a rider allows one to overtake them, I do this every time because I appreciate them allowing me to pass. We all ride at varying speeds. When I catch up to a slower rider I wait patiently until they have decent spot to move to the side. I see it as good trail etiquette for both riders. By the way, I do not own or wear a Penn Cycles jersey.

[bovaddict]

dried up even more today over yesterday.. that litte puddle while riding to the entrance is about 1/3 the size of yesterday. still a little moist in the shaddy area towars the end there but overall great ride!

and yesterday when people passed (not often but still) they all said thanks.. and when i got close to someones rear they offered to let me pass just to tell them.. everyone yesterday was great. noone out today so who knows

[Trevize1138]

2. Right before you hit the exit on the North loop, there is a Y shaped tree/stump on your left that in my opinion needs to be trimmed back. I cleared the branch at head height, but at the expense of my left shoulder impacting the lower branch. This could very dangerous for a beginner. I will leave it to the trail stewards to decide.

I keep thinking that tree needs to be moved ASAP myself. I'll post to the MOCA board list and see when people think we could get out and move it.

3. The guy in the Penn Cycle jersey needs to realize this is not a race and that we all have been off dirt for several months. Please slow down and when someone lets you by, do not be an a$$ and say thanks.
It was great to be on dirt again and here is to a great summer!

Indeed. There's absolutely no excuse to be rude in passing someone. I make it general practice to be as polite as possible when passing people because I want everyone to come away from Theo with positive experiences. Hearing people talk about how nice and polite the other riders were makes me smile :).

If this guy in the Penn jersey isn't an employee or team member then Penn Cycle should sue him for libel and slander. :crazy:

[MickUZE]

Nice Trail this morning I was the only one! First time out this year and its great to get back on the dirt! Man its been to long. The trail is still in great shape with most of it still tacky and just a couple of dry spots. Get out there and ride people! There is tree that is sticking out at the end of the jump which looks a bit dangers. If you are very aggressive coming out off the small table top watch out for the tree its on your left as you hit the turn.
Nice looking trail after a long winter glad to get back out and ride.

LATER
uze

[SLP Punk]

Sweet, I'm planning to get my first ride of the year in on Saturday!

[Leslie]

I would like to say thanks to all of the riders who are so polite - I am often the one pulling over to let people pass and feel so encouraged when someone says thanks, or how are you, you're doing great. I am new to the sport and can use all the encouragement!
Theo has been such a great place to ride, I love it! :banana:

[steef]

Numerous puddles and slick spots out there this morning. I'd say it will be tomorrow at the earliest until it's dry enough all over to ride.

I did see two sets of tracks on the trails.

[Trevize1138]

Numerous puddles and slick spots out there this morning. I'd say it will be tomorrow at the earliest until it's dry enough all over to ride.

I did see two sets of tracks on the trails.

I didn't see many slick spots and no puddles. However I only checked out a very short section next to the auto glass place. Judging by what I saw the trail may be ready to ride by tonight after work, but someone should post a report on conditions at that time to be sure.

[steef]

Where's the auto glass place? I came in at the sleep center and checked out parts of Zip, White Pine and Conundrum.

[bovaddict]

hopefully i dont work tomorrow cause ill be there..

[Trevize1138]

Where's the auto glass place? I came in at the sleep center and checked out parts of Zip, White Pine and Conundrum.

The auto glass (Harmon?) is at the corner of 55 and Wirth Pkwy, AKA "The South Entrance."

[Trevize1138]

Trail is currently tacky and perfect. :cool:

[steef]

Yes, the Wirth Velodrome is perfect for road bikes. :D

[Nickel]

Nice and busy. Seems like there are some areas that are slightly rutted.

[bowmanmark]

how do i get to tho from 394 if i am going west?

[nord0306]

how do i get to tho from 394 if i am going west?

the easiest way is to get off on 100 North and take that to 55 and head back east a bit to Theo Parkway. Otherwise you can get off on Penn North and wind through the neighborhood.
Adam

[flombe]

how do i get to tho from 394 if i am going west?

Assuming you are west of Hwy 100 traveling east on I-394, exit 100 northbound, stay in right lane of 100 and immediately exit to Glenwood Ave, take left at light at top of ramp (heading east now on Glenwood toward DT Mpls.), proceed until 4-way stop signs at Theo Wirth Pkwy, proceed straight and park in first parking lot on your left at Wirth Lake. Unload, backtrack to Theo Wirth Pkwy, cross Theo Wirth Pkwy and turn right onto paved bike path, continue north on paved path until you hit stoplights at Hwy 55, cross 55 and trail entrance is immediately on your left behind kiosk. This takes you through the south section and dumps you onto paved trail again, take left onto paved trail and follow it across railroad bridge, watch for gravel service road on your left after RR bridge, turn left onto service road and ride around gate on its left side, continue on service road until you find entrance to north loop on your left (there is a trail sign).

At the Hwy 55 kiosk, you might want to stop and study the map to get a feel for where you are and where the off-road trail goes so you can plan your return.

Much easier then I have made it out to be!

[flombe]

Damn, I see you wrote heading west on I-394! Same route from the east. Just be sure to exit at Hwy 100 north and follow what I wrote earlier.

[bowmanmark]

Thanks I am going to go tonight after work for a quick ride

[bovaddict]

you guys think itll be fine tomorrow afternoon? ive been out everyday except for rain pretty much.. i missed it today :( well hopefully see you guys tomorrow apparently its suppose to be beautiful out

[Trevize1138]

you guys think itll be fine tomorrow afternoon? ive been out everyday except for rain pretty much.. i missed it today :( well hopefully see you guys tomorrow apparently its suppose to be beautiful out

It should be dry by this afternoon. Theo dries out amazingly fast.

[bovaddict]

alright heading out now.. see you guys there!

[Trevize1138]

Trail's in good shape but there are a few small puddles out there. The puddles are in the usual spots for 'em and we've done trail maintenance on them a few times now. Somehow, they never seem to go away.

I'm betting they'll be dried up by this afternoon if not earlier, though. Trail is perfect and tacky otherwise!

[kiano]

Do you guys know of a website where I can get the off-rd. trail map for Theo Wirth. I am new to the area. I think I know how to get there, but I want to plan ahead so I am somehow familiar with it before my first visit.

Thanks,

[ebrandel]

Here's a good map of the trails in PDF format:
http://www.mocatrails.org/files/Maps/Orthophoto_Map.pdf

or a slightly lower res version:
http://www.mocatrails.org/files/Maps/Orthophoto_Map.jpg

Bunch more info here:
http://www.morcmtb.org/trailreviews/metro/theowirth.shtml
Good to read over before you go. Hopefully we don't get too much rain!

[kiano]

Thanks for the maps. I wanted to go today but it has been raining on and off as far as I can tell. Do you think that by tomorrow the trails will be ok? Sounds like you know this park very well.

[bovaddict]

no its supposed to rain tomorrow too.. :( then cloudy and possible rain sunday and monday

[bovaddict]

also where are you coming from? its pretty easy to get there..when you do, just park at the par 3 course and go towards teh entrance before the little bridge thing and itll be a blocked ff dirt road path for teh a ourse and you go to the left where a bike can go through and youll find it from there. the b course go over the bridge, then there will be a fork and take a right and youll see it..

[ebrandel]

Thanks for the maps. I wanted to go today but it has been raining on and off as far as I can tell. Do you think that by tomorrow the trails will be ok? Sounds like you know this park very well.

Well, I really don't know it that well :)
Tomorrow afternoon it may be ok, but I'd check out the forum (specifically this thread) before I went. Someone will have probably posted up about the trail conditions. Wouldn't want to head over there and then not be able to ride because the trail is too wet.

[ebrandel]

also where are you coming from? its pretty easy to get there..when you do, just park at the par 3 course

Ooh.. no, don't park there. Kind of a no no. If you're driving, park at the parking lot south of Wirth lake off of Glenwood ave:
http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=h&om=1&ll=44.98145,-93.325167&spn=0.011201,0.016651&z=16

The trail head is at the NW corner of Theo Wirth Parkway and Olson Memorial Highway (55).

[kiano]

I am thinking about taking the entrance by 55 so it can lead me to Dingo. But this is gonna have to wait until next week because of the weather. Are we allow to park by P3. I don't want to get a ticket.

[stoneage]

I am thinking about taking the entrance by 55 so it can lead me to Dingo. But this is gonna have to wait until next week because of the weather. Are we allow to park by P3. I don't want to get a ticket.
They are encouraging people to park at the Wirth beach house lot on Glenwood just east of Theo Wirth Parkway. You won't get ticketed if you park in the Par 3 lot, but until bikers get a designated lot, we don't want to irritate the 'normal' users, i.e. golfers, although we probably outnumber them 4 to 1. Theo dries well so if the rain lets up tonight, you could check the trails mid-morning.

[ebrandel]

Any chance Theo is going to rideable around noon tomorrow? I know weather.com is basically predicting rain all day long, but they're horrible over predictors. Accuweather (http://wwwa.accuweather.com/index-forecast.asp?partner=accuweather&traveler=0&zipcode=55406&u=1) is saying maybe a little rain at around 1pm, but that's about it till tomorrow evening. Druckenmiller updated the Trail Conditions page saying that "Thunderstorms are here. Please stay off until it dries!" but did MPLS really get that much rain?

Just trying to get a ride in with a friend (who I haven't ridden with in like 8 years), and I don't want him to drive down if we can't ride.

[[defective]]

Druckenmiller updated the Trail Conditions page saying that "Thunderstorms are here. Please stay off until it dries!" but did MPLS really get that much rain?


MPLS got a couple of inches over three hours. Downpour for about half an hour.

[soupboy]

Going over later this afternoon. With the wind, sun and temps I bet $1 that it's good to go.

Besides, short intense periods of rain aren't as bad as a steady, longer duration soaking.

Legion will be patronized post-ride.

[crypwhisper]

let us know how it is, i want to go out around 6 or 7.

[stoneage]

It's perfect. 1:30-3:30

[bovaddict]

it was very nice.. minus the trees in teh middle of the paths.. found a bunch of hidden trails today ive never seen before.. nothing really fun.. and completely covered in stuff.. but fun..

anyway i over cleared the jump o the b course and hit the tree so that my marks there.. the older guy on teh pink bike talked to me about dragging my wheel? i wasnt but i whiped out so someone else is or my marks looked like it?

[stoneage]

found a bunch of hidden trails today ive never seen before....completely covered in stuff
That was the old trail. It's covered for a reason; we don't use it anymore.
the older guy on the pink bike
That was me. I found the BMX'rs that were sliding at every coner and talked to them.

[bovaddict]

ok sweet. good to hear you found em..

[mb598]

there needs to be some general clean-up on parts and the tree that fell is rather large

[manual63]

It seems like some precip today might keep the trails wet. Anyone have a report? I was thinking about posting for a Monday night ride if the trails are dry.

[Jash]

Im, thinking of taking a ride at about 11:30, hope its not wet...keep ya posted:beer_yum:

[Jash]

well started to sprinkle when i was leaving....sux, somebody tell me what its like tonight :angry:

[manual63]

I would guess it's going to stay wet today....so I don't plan on posting for a Monday night ride. Hope for better weather next week.

[Manto]

just did a lap at noonish.

trail seemd tacky except for a few minor wet spots. took me a couple of tries to clear the tree that fell down, though, but otherwise it was a good ride.

as long as the rain holds off you should be fine.

T

[Trevize1138]

Was that you bunny-hopping the puddle on the service road as I was leaving, Tony? :)

I concur: the trail's actually in fantastic shape except for the downed tree. It should be getting taken care of shortly, however. The cut up remnants of the tree should be placed in the rapidly developing trail people are using to avoid the tree, though.

[Manto]

no, i was the guy walking down the service road with a kona.

the one time i didn't grab my pump.... oh well, at least it held until the last portion.

[Trevize1138]

no, i was the guy walking down the service road with a kona.

the one time i didn't grab my pump.... oh well, at least it held until the last portion.

I've always got a pump with me if you ever run into me on the trail.

Also, everyone please try to portage your bikes past the downed tree and not ride off-trail to get past it. That will help keep that little bit of unofficial trail from developing too much.

[Shorty]

the one time i didn't grab my pump.... oh well, at least it held until the last portion.

Does the Par 3 bunkhouse still sell tubes?

And didn't they used to have tools and a pump available?

[MickUZE]

Does anyone know what the trail is like today.
I know it rained hard yesterday for a moment but wondering if its drying fast.
Got to ride soon.

LATER
uze

[Kosk]

It was mighty wet this morning on the ride in (I pass through that neck of the woods). I'd say this evening is 50-50.

Maybe Chris D can do a recon mission for those that are jonesin'?

[Trevize1138]

Does anyone know what the trail is like today.
I know it rained hard yesterday for a moment but wondering if its drying fast.
Got to ride soon.

LATER
uze

I've been wondering the same thing. I would wait until early afternoon to be safe unless you're willing to risk a trip out there over noon only to find it's too wet to ride. But, the rest of us would be very thankful to you for scouting out the conditions for us ;).

[Trevize1138]

It was mighty wet this morning on the ride in (I pass through that neck of the woods). I'd say this evening is 50-50.

Maybe Chris D can do a recon mission for those that are jonesin'?

I'm planning on a 3 p.m. recon mission so I'll have an update for the after-work crowd. I wouldn't bet on the trails being ready for any lunch rides.

I've got some new 26X2.25'' tires for my full rigid SS I'm just itching to try out there! :)

[MickUZE]

Thanks guys! Keep us updated I'm looking to ride after work.

UZE

[Trevize1138]

Just did one lap and I don't feel right about a second! I wouldn't stop anyone from riding but if you absolutely have to tread lightly! Go very slow through the small but numerous greasy spots.

Or, it might be a good road day :). Should be perfect tomorrow.

[MickUZE]

I took a ride around 7:00 this evening and trail was good. Just a couple of turns that you had to take slow but other wise most of the trail was great.
But now with it raining like crazy down town I think the trail will need some sun tomorrow.
later
uze

[flombe]

Trail did have a few greasy spots tonight. Caution required in a few spots. Two laps and out. Saw many riders and no nasty damage. I bumped into Steev after second lap. Good to chat Steev!

The skies just opened up and poured for a good 15 minutes and I hear more thunder to the west. Considering conditions tonight, and a forecast for calm winds, I would say Theo will need all of tomorrow to dry. Road rides indeed. Blech!

[Trevize1138]

Trail did have a few greasy spots tonight. Caution required in a few spots. Two laps and out. Saw many riders and no nasty damage. I bumped into Steev after second lap. Good to chat Steev!

The skies just opened up and poured for a good 15 minutes and I hear more thunder to the west. Considering conditions tonight, and a forecast for calm winds, I would say Theo will need all of tomorrow to dry. Road rides indeed. Blech!

I dunno. Highs are supposed to be in the mid 80s today so I would think the trails would get baked dry pretty nicely.

[Standard]

Think the trails will be ready to go by 4pm? Otherwise, I guess it's a good thing I dusted off the roady.

[Kosk]

Stopped by on my ride in this morning. Trails are wet, soggy, sloppy, muddy, greasy, puddley, etc right now. We got a good soaking last night. I'm not sure how it'll be tonight, but it's not good right now.

If I was a betting man, I'd be the over (aka: wait til tomorrow).

[Trevize1138]

I just walked over to the bermed turn in "White Pine Flier" and spotted several puddles. If we're lucky it'll dry out by 5 pm but I wouldn't bet on it.

[Chug]

Some one want to call the shop when you all get out for trail work and give me the conditions I can post them and either cancel or go ahead with our wed. nite ride. yee.... har....
612-436-0255

[Kosk]

Some one want to call the shop when you all get out for trail work and give me the conditions I can post them and either cancel or go ahead with our wed. nite ride. yee.... har....
612-436-0255

Will do, should be around 5:30ish.

[steef]

Despite all our best intentions, there were 40+ riders out tonight. Yes the trail is 99% dry, but there's plenty of soggy/puddly spots on it. OF course the sogginess of those spots accentuated the problems that need to be dealt with. Shad and I took out the downed tree before the table.

[manual63]

Shad and I took out the downed tree before the table.

Also, please be careful when starting the north loop. On the climb there is a leaning tree. It's easy to get around, but keep your eyes on the trail ahead of you, you always should do this, so you don't bonk your head on it. We will remove it next week since it's not a major issue right now.

[Trevize1138]

As expected the trail is in near perfect condition today. There are a couple of soft spots on the main loop but they're not bad or big at all.

The Skyline section, the southbound leg of the small, south loop, has several muddy spots, however. That's pretty common as that section's very flat and the trail has several low points.

[bovaddict]

open? might be going here if i wake up early enough for leb ill be there though.. work at 11 and need to get a ride in before..

if anyones here in the morning.. see you there!

[steef]

Dusty and fast. I found a helmet slapper that should be lopped off this evening.

[mb598]

how is everything, gonna try to make it out tomorrow but the new job has me strapped I got a new rear shock and haven't even ridden it

[ryno lite]

It's perfect out there. Get out and ride!

[manual63]

It looks like it's raining pretty hard in Mpls right now. Can anyone near Theo confirm this and let us know how much rain?

Thank you.

[Kingbozo]

Its pouring downtown.

[syntaxjunkie]

If it weren't for a couple buildings, I could see Theo from here. And we're getting hit pretty good right now. Looks like there's more coming, although I can see a wee bit of blue on the far horizon.

Oh, and there's a tornado warning for Hennepin County until 3:00 p.m.

[mara]

There is a tree falling across the trail in conundrum where the trail turns back in away from the swamp to start climbing the switchbacks up the hill to the pine grove. I could barely squeeze under it -- anyone taller than me will have to portage, staying on the trail, please. We'll have it out as soon as possible, with any luck, by the time the trail is dry enough to ride after this batch of storms.

[Trevize1138]

I updated the conditions to "Wet" on the main page. I'll try to get out there and check the progress of the drying at noon. I'm sure it won't be ready to ride then but I should get a good idea of when it will be.

[Trevize1138]

Just spot-checked one usual trouble spot and, of course it's wet. I have seen it wetter than this at noon and the trail was rideable that evening. I'd give it 50/50 for after work riding. If you want to be sure of dry dirt I think this would be a great day to ride Salem Hills!

[bigwheel]

If you want to be sure of dry dirt I think this would be a great day to ride Salem Hills!

I just got back. Salem is also too wet. We are S.O.L. for trail riding today.

[Trevize1138]

Well, overall the trail's just on the damp side of tacky! There are some puddles but they're in the usual trouble spots that need re-working. I feel pretty confident that I'm not doing any damage considering. Take it easy your first lap and scout out spots you'll want to go slow through.

[col200]

Damn near perfect.

[Trevize1138]

Damn near perfect.

Wow.

People are riding trails other than Murphy this weekend? :shocked:

[Supernaut]

There is a tree falling across the trail in conundrum where the trail turns back in away from the swamp to start climbing the switchbacks up the hill to the pine grove. I could barely squeeze under it -- anyone taller than me will have to portage, staying on the trail, please. We'll have it out as soon as possible, with any luck, by the time the trail is dry enough to ride after this batch of storms.

Not sure if this is relevant to the above post but there is a tree down on the 2nd to last part of the upper loop. As far As i remember it wasn't there yesterday, Monday 5/28, and maybe I picked the wrong day to stop drinking, but you really have to duck and roll to get under it, and there is no way around it.

Keep your head up but its pretty hard to miss even if you are flying.

[Yammer]

The down tree is on the climb before you twist around to the cement block drop off. It's a pretty big tree, and it definitely happened sometime between 8:30 pm last night and 4:30 PM today.

The trail was slippery, and slow going today. Just did 1 lap and tried not to leave a trace.

Patrick

[mara]

The down tree is on the climb before you twist around to the cement block drop off.

Thanks -- we'll get the park maintenance people out there to make it go away.

[2BOutside]

trail was in good shape, dry enough to ride - rode it today at 11AM. One or two mud spots on south loop, bur otherwise nice, dry and tacky. Tires didn't pick up any dirt from the ride.

And yea - heads up for that down tree - it's definitely not able to be ridden around, unless you and jump 6 feet in the air!

[THUMP!]

Anybody been to Theo today to see how the trail is after the rain? Was hoping to get down there around 4 if the warm weather does it's job.

[Yammer]

Also, there another overhead branch just before the downed tree, that I hit my helmet on really hard the other day. I hate that, especially when you're in 'the zone' and hitting all your lines right with speed. Suddenly having a tree branch hit you in the head is like getting hit with a 2x4, waking you up from a good dream on a Monday morning.

I'm ducking now when I hit that section.
Defintely wear helmets. It's funny that the only time I really need the helmet is when I ride under a branch and hit my head. It's happened like 3 times already this year.

Pat

[col200]

careful! There was that accident at the bottoms a couple years ago where that guy smacked a low branch and snapped his neck.

[Don Youngdahl]

careful! There was that accident at the bottoms a couple years ago where that guy smacked a low branch and snapped his neck.

That scenario is why I've always believed that overhead obstacles, regardless of the location or trail rating, have absolutely no place on any mountain bike trail.

With any other obstacle or hazard, you might or might not fall, and you might or might not land hard on your head. With an overhead obstacle, it's usually your head that takes the blow, with the force then transmitted to the neck.

[THUMP!]

Too wet at 4pm

[THUMP!]

I did part of the small loop and it looked like you could avoid the spots but when I got to the main loop it was really bad. I ended up walking my bike out on the hiking trail. I also tried to tell 4 or 5 people that it was too wet and they just headed right in...oh well.

[Yammer]

That scenario is why I've always believed that overhead obstacles, regardless of the location or trail rating, have absolutely no place on any mountain bike trail.

With any other obstacle or hazard, you might or might not fall, and you might or might not land hard on your head. With an overhead obstacle, it's usually your head that takes the blow, with the force then transmitted to the neck.

That's totally true. Usually you're looking at the ground 2 - 20 feet in front of you depending on your speed. I'm almost never looking at where my head is going to be...why would you? IMO there should be a minimum clearance rule for trail building, like how bridges are built.

Pat

[crypwhisper]

anyone been out today? did it rain last night? i am looking at going at like 2-2:30ish. thanks.

[Trevize1138]

I assume Omar's out there already so this report is late and of no consequence, but it's about perfect with a couple small greasy spots. Keep your fingers crossed that this patchy t-storm weather skips over the park today ;).

[manual63]

Can someone post up a report? With all the rain we had, I am assuming Theo will take a day to dry out.

[Trevize1138]

I rode out there just now and checked out the south loop. Definitely a few greasy spots but overall pretty good. I didn't ride any more of the trail due to the conditions over the lunch hour but I'd say it'll be ready to ride tonight.

[THUMP!]

Yesterday at about 4pm I rode the smaller loop which seemed pretty god but had to once again stop riding the larger loop once I got into it a ways as it had lots of wet and or super greasy spots. I could already see marks from other riders. Even riding out the "road" so as not to do any more damage I got some mud on my ride.
Anybody know how it looks today?

[manual63]

It's going to be wet for a bit. It should take about a full day of no rain (that's 24 hours...:)) to fully dry out. We got a good dumping later in the day yesterday, so assume tomorrow morning at best. Someone can go check it out late this afternoon and give a more accurate report. But until we get into the higher temps, dryer air, and a bit more wind, they will take longer to dry out.

Also keep in mind that the more people that ride it when it is wet, the longer it will take to dry out. Cupping and putting tire tracks in the trail just makes it so water hangs out there longer.

[Trevize1138]

Did we get dumped on at Theo yesterday? It was pretty cloudy in S. Minneapolis and we got sprinkles here and there but no real significant stuff. I'd guess it will be OK for afternoon riding.

I'll try to get out there by 4 p.m. and post an update via CrackBerry.

[steef]

The ground looked pretty dry Northside yesterday evening, so it "may" have missed Theo.

[Trevize1138]

Still wet!

This trail has now become an excellent example of what happens when too many people ride it when it's wet. Pity, because it used to be an excellent example of a quick-drying trail.

So, consider this your guilt trip for trail work tomorrow. :)

[mn_ultra_guy]

I run a large loop through Theo several days a week and wanted to bring something up. On Glenwood just West of the parking lot, there is a paved path that dead ends at the reeds. I see riders and tracks going down the hill through the grass to this walking path. This grass by the way is covered with a mesh to help with the damage caused by riding on it.

Come on people, you are going to ride your bikes for several loops at Theo, but you cannot ride Glenwood to the proper bike path or the parkway?:cool:

As a rider and a person who lives on Theo's edge, I support riding there; however, when I see riders disregard the rules and ride where they want, it makes me think maybe we are not ready to have Theo back yet.:banghead:

[soupboy]

Rode tonight. The usual spots prone to greasiness were, well, greasy. Surprised me...this sucka usually dries like a wicking fiber garment - fast, but smelly.

New issue - I noticed that a lot of people have been cutting corners to straighten out the course. Hey morons, if you want to ride in straight lines I've got a place for you...the road. Learn to handle your bike properly and turning is actually...drum roll please...FUN! Morons.

I suggest tiger traps filled with feces-smeared punji sticks be dug in these offensive cheating spots.

[stoneage]

cutting corners to straighten out the course
...........and dropping to the next trail to avoid hills.
Amazing isn't it. Nobody wants to turn or climb anymore. Let's just install lift lines and pave the trails. I'm searching for the old school trails again, and I DON'T mean old M-H or Leb.

[nord0306]

New issue - I noticed that a lot of people have been cutting corners to straighten out the course.

I agree that there is pinning that needs to be done in a lot of areas and we are working to get out there to do that. First the wet areas need to get taken care of so they don't get worse.

Also, if we are going to have a thread dedicated to lap times, then I think we are going to have more cutting. It's simply faster to take a tighter line and that's what people are going to do. Who doesn't want their name on the top 5 list.
Adam

[Trevize1138]

Rumor has it conditions are PERFECT ... for TRAILWORK! :banana:

Get out there tonight after work and help us fix those nasty, non-draining muddy spots. It'll be fun*!

* "fun" is a relative concept and may not apply to all situations.

[stoneage]

a thread dedicated to lap times, then I think we are going to have more cutting
If you cheat. it doesn't count. So there!! That takes care of that.

[Trevize1138]

The trail was a lot drier today than we'd feared, so that was great news!

We got a lot of work done tonight, too, taking care of parts that were holding way too much water. Things should dry a lot better over much of the trail now. We didn't get to everything, though, so keep next Wednesday open on your calendar and join the de-berming fun! :banana:

Keep your fingers crossed that we don't get any rain tomorrow. Trail should be about perfect for riding then!

[incendiarySYS]

I have no idea how much rain the wirth area has had, does anyone know if it's dry enough to ride this morning?

[steef]

I'd say go for it after seeing quite a bit of it last night. The areas we worked on need to get packed in by riding.

[Trevize1138]

Trail is perfect! :banana:

[THUMP!]

Ran into Chris as I was bumbling up the rock garden...trail sure was in great shape...thanks for all the work you guys did!

[stoneage]

A new adventure every lap. It was so windy, there was different debris every time around. The old trails were less affected. Lots of girls at the beach tonight. whooooshhhhh!!!!! (The sound of men racing out of the garage headed for Wirth) Rode the log 4 times. Someone cut the fence along the lake, so you can ride all the way down and then come back. Something different.

[Trevize1138]

Trail is now very dry. Pretty amazing what 90 degrees and wind will do! The storms didn't touch it today so tomorrow's 70 degree/sunny weather means if you don't ride yore stoopid. :crazy:

[Kosk]

I zambonied all the spider webs off the trail this morning using my face. Trail's good to go for everybody else now.

On the dry side of tacky, a few twigs from the wind but nothing major.

[stoneage]

Trail is clear of children and helmetless, flip flop wearing dolts, thanks to the KKrew bi-monthly Brat&Beer sweeping. Trail maintenance at it's best. :)

[THUMP!]

Anybody know how it is today? I don't know if the rain hit that area.

[steef]

Rain definitely hit the South side of Mpls, and the radar looke like it was heavier around Theo. I might check it out on my way home, though.

[ryno lite]

We got nailed with big time rain over by the U of M. I think Mpls. got it pretty good. Hopefully my house got some!:)

[YetiBoy]

It rained HARD in the park mid-afternoon. The trails will likely be gree-zee and may not be rideable.

[THUMP!]

Did two laps yesterday with only 2 wet spots while the rest was really fast and dry. Good to be home and back on my bike!

[2_whl_boost]

Any word on the trail conditions today? Did theo get any significant rain last night?

[ebrandel]

Any word on the trail conditions today? Did theo get any significant rain last night?

Ditto. Planning on riding tomorrow afternoon with a friend from far far away (North Branch), so I'm hoping the trail may be in good enough shape to absorb a sprinkle or two in the morning. I'm in Minneapolis, but pretty much on the opposite side (SE versus Theo in the NW), and we barely got anything here, and the rain seemed to mostly pass south of us.

[Yammer]

If it doesn't rain today, it should be perfect. I rode it around 5:30 pm last night and there were half a dozen corners that had wet spots that you had to creep around. The rest of the trail was perfect.

[ebrandel]

Well, the trails were great, other than 2 or 3 low spots. It was sprinkling when I was there (left at about 3pm) but it wasn't even hitting the trail really.

As for right now... when I was driving back I went through downtown and hit some fairly decent rain. Not sure if that rain was heading towards Theo or not.

[THUMP!]

Anybody know conditions after yesterdays scattered rain?

[Mountain Jam]

Rode it late last night, trail was great. There were a few tacky patches but no standing water.

[Yammer]

The rains missed it last night so it's ready to roll!

[THUMP!]

Rode yesterday and it was very dry.

[ebrandel]

Went for a lap this morning and the trail was dry as a bone.

[THUMP!]

Trail was tacky and nice around 11am but it seems as rain just moved thru.

[chewie_52]

Anyone know if it's rideable today after the rain yesterday????

[Trevize1138]

Anyone know if it's rideable today after the rain yesterday????

I tried to go check on it over my lunch break but my plans were foiled by a 35-year-old VW fuel gague. :)

[manual63]

I tried to go check on it over my lunch break but my plans were foiled by a 35-year-old VW fuel gague. :)

Bummer. Hopefully someone else can get out there and check for us.

Next time, open up the gas cap and shake the car. You should be able to hear how much gas you have....:)

[Trevize1138]

Perfect! Tacky overall with a couple slightly damp spots here and there. Nice and fast.

[MickUZE]

The trails are ripping today. Lets hope no more rain.
Get out and ride!

uze

[flombe]

Excellent conditions tonight!

[Hertz14]

Very fun ride today despite a couple of meetings with the dirt, which is very dry and hard by the way. Seems to be a tough left-hand turn before the big right-hand berm in the later stages of the North loop. Seems like people are braking at the last second and throwing the dirt off, making it slope to the outside if that makes sense. The trail seems to flow well but I obviously need a lot more time out there to get the turns down. It's impossible for a guy my size to squeeze through one spot, I call it the virgin section. I like the speed you can get from just coasting to that small table top at the end. I had enough speed to get through the rock garden but as I gave a hard pump to finish my middle ring decided to give out on me and almost sent me down hard, I then said a few R-rated words and threw it in the big ring to finish the lap. I was on my way to the South loop but realized I no longer had a straight front rim, said a few more choice words and called it a day. This is starting to become an expensive habit.

[redpic]

anyone aware of the trail conditions?

[jitterjepp]

It rained out there a little. It should be fine tomorrow it it doesn't pour again tonight. Its water is getting sucked up pretty fast because the ground is so dry.

[Yammer]

Is it good for a ride around 4pm?

[Rocky Mountain]

Anybody ride Theo today, Thursday, 7/19/07? Looking for trail condition update.

Thanks in Advance!

Is it good for a ride around 4pm?

[Yammer]

The trail is very dry and the dust is slick. I can't believe I'm saying this but we could use a day of rain to soak in.

Also there's a blue cruiser bike abandoned on the trail.

[manual63]

Until we get some rain, please be cautious. There are a lot of loose spots and some of the areas we have been working on this summer need rain badly. With the trails so dry the corners are pretty loose on top of the hardpack.

The tabletop in the north has been repatched. We packed it pretty good, but it if doesn't rain soon....be cautious in that area too. Now that we got the sink hole mostly taken care of, we can start to build the jump up to be bigger and safer over the next couple of weeks, if we get some rain.

[Trevize1138]

Just walked a portion of the trail and it's surpisingly dry! The rain certainly helped but it's not tacky like I thought it would be at 11 a.m.

[flombe]

Our neck of the woods received only a light shower yesterday.:cryin:

[DmacBmac]

Dry as a bone and fast as always...ride till you puke peeps!!:)

[steef]

And don't forget to puke on the dry spots so they get "tacky" again.

Peeps+puke+dry trail = very tacky.

http://www.rgj.com/blogs/books/uploaded_images/JUST-BORN-MARSHMALLOW-PEEPS-796204.jpg

[THUMP!]

I contributed some blood to the cause of keeping it tacky as I tried to get a little extra air off the curb drop...got off track and bit it good. I did however accidentally take a bit of the dirt home with me in my brand new wound...sorry Mara, but it seemed only fair to take it in trade for the fluid loss.

[steef]

You should have seen how much dirt Mara took home with her after trailwork Wednesday. :D

[Kingbozo]

Last night a guy got nailed by a couple of hornets or wasps right by the shoulder high "rotting stump" that is right before the super narrow handlebar grabber. There may be a nest nearby.

[stoneage]

Did he get bit around the ankles? There are some ground wasp nests in the park, but you usually don't get stung if you keep moving. If it's in the tree or the log across the trail, maybe some spray is necessary. I'd hate to lose the obstacles.

[Kingbozo]

He got a couple of stings right on his knee.

[stoneage]

I gotta think there is a ground nest nearby, otherwise they aim for the head and face. Best advice, try to move through as quickly as possible. If you do spot the nest, post up it's location. It also helps to put a rock on the entrance. They will find another way out, but hopefully a little farther away.

[DmacBmac]

It took a full day of raining...Theo is wet. :cryin:

[Chug]

I am 2 miles from THeo and it didn't rain that much here. The mud areas in my back yard are already almost dry. If the wind keeps up and it doesn't rain the trail should be great some time tomorrow afternoon. Although I don't think it will help that first sand pit......

[THUMP!]

Anybody seen the trail today?

[Chug]

Trail is get. Still some sand, could use more rain. Faster the trail has been in a while.

[THUMP!]

TACKY! I think it's the nicest I've ever seen it, perfectly moist with nothing sticking to my treads. Fast in a really good way!

[Yammer]

Well I hope you got to enjoy the trail the last two days, it was awesome!
Today it looks like it's back to hardpack dust.
One more day and it will be just as dry as before the rain.

[soupboy]

Just got back. Dusty as ever and some new sandy areas ta boot.

Time for a rain dance. Make it a Forbidden Dance, while you're at it.

Well I hope you got to enjoy the trail the last two days, it was awesome!
Today it looks like it's back to hardpack dust.
One more day and it will be just as dry as before the rain.

[jzipfel]

Any thoughts on if Theo will be rideable today?

[Trevize1138]

Any thoughts on if Theo will be rideable today?


I'll be there in :30 checking it out and will post here via BlackBerry ASAP.

[[defective]]

Word from Chris D., your man on the scene, is that Theo passes the Section 5 test. Just on the rideable side of tacky.

Have at it, but take care on the turns.

Perfect trail conditions forecast for later this afternoon as long as the rain holds off.

[Markus]

I was out on Theo this afternoon and there is a tree that has fallen across the trail on the A loop. Several sticks have been placed on either side of the fallen tree and you can make it over but it is tough. The fallen tree is on the back side of the A loop just before the second log obstacle. Otherwise currently the trail is in good shape, dried out since yesterday and is in good shape.

[thelmt]

Time for a rain dance. Make it a Forbidden Dance, while you're at it.

Holy crap did my house get pounded last night in SLP! Anyone go check out the trail yet to see if there is any major damage, I'm going to take a look after work, unless someone beats me to it and posts up. Looks like all the trail conditions need updated on the list!

[THUMP!]

North loop is perfectly tacky with a few slick spots. There is one HUGE tree across the path before the uphill rock garden...it is going to need a big chainsaw or tree saw. The south loop is pretty wet and probably shouldn't be ridden.

[thelmt]

North loop is perfectly tacky with a few slick spots. There is one HUGE tree across the path before the uphill rock garden...it is going to need a big chainsaw or tree saw. The south loop is pretty wet and probably shouldn't be ridden.

This might be a great chance to make an XX feature with a bypass... may take a giant chainsaw or an adze, but could be interesting, and we could call it "one HUGE tree"

[Uncle Leo]

Except for the downed redwood, the trail is in amazingly great shape.

[THUMP!]

This might be a great chance to make an XX feature with a bypass... may take a giant chainsaw or an adze, but could be interesting, and we could call it "one HUGE tree"

I think yer right about the feature...it would be similar to the HUGE tree at River Bottoms. Hope we can take advantage of it!

[manual63]

We got rain lately, so we should be able to do some dirt work. I hope to add to the jump and build a couple of small berms. To do that, I need people and wheelbarrows. If we get enough people, both projects can get done tonight!

[manual63]

There is a downed tree at Theo. It was from the storm. It's just after the pine section when doing the first climb up in the north loop. Or we could say it's a few curves before the rock armor climb.

Also, watch out for Hollywoods near the tree, I hear they are dangerous!

http://www.shadholland.com/images/Theo/DownTreeHollywood_sm.jpg

We are currently working with the city to find out what to do with this tree, please bear with us. In the mean time, please climb over the tree and do not make an alternate path around it.

[Humpty]

First off, thanks for making such a great trail!

I've been riding Theo Wirth for about a year and haven't helped with maintenance so I believe I'm well overdue. Please let me know how I can help. I have a chainsaw I can bring if that's the plan.

Thanks.

Jeff

[steef]

We're not allowed to use power tools at Theo, but thanks for the offer.

[manual63]

I have a chainsaw I can bring if that's the plan.


Being that it's a city park, we are not allowed to use power tools to build. Any chainsawing must be done by the city, like when the big tree gets removed. Otherwise we hand saw stuff when needed. Yep....good old hard labor...:)

You can help out in many ways. Helping out at trailwork, becoming a MORC member, just plain donating to MORC are always good options. MORC has a lot of general tasks that we need help on. Helping set up and organize events, doing paperwork, folding letters....or whatever. Look in the Get Involved section of the forums for helping out in those types of areas.

Now go enjoy a ride, which is why we are all here.

[Wheels]

I've spoken with Jennifer at the MPRB, and Dick Mammen - our new regional contact... here's the deal:

The City will come out to - at the very least - clear an opening in the trail ASAP - which means we'll have to get in line, as between the Elm disease and the recent storms, they're a bit busy.

It probably won't happen before early next week is what I'm being told. We'll just have to live with it for the time being.

I'm meeting Dick Mammen out there on Monday afternoon, we're going to take a look at how we can section the downed tree to create a log pile obstacle. I'm not too sure how much they're going to be able to cut for us, but they'll do their best to help us out.

We'll likely clear the trail, then use the logs to build two log crossings - one low one, and one huge one as an alternate line. It's going to be tough work moving the sectioned logs - so let's line up some straps and get some bodies out there next wednesday to move things around.

I'll keep all of you posted as to when the cutting will happen.

[Humpty]

I'm in for Wednesday. What time and is there anywhere to park near the trail?

Jeff

[steef]

5:00 and it's OK for trailworkers to park in the par 3 lot.

[Wheels]

I was copied on an email from the MPRB maintenance dept. today, it sounds like they made an opening through the downed tree.

We'll have to take a look at what we may be able to do with the downed tree, maybe get them back to do some more cutting.

But for now, it's clear and rideable.

[Wheels]

Can someone post up some photos of the downed tree opening?

The MPRB did remove it, looks like the maintenance guys didn't get a clear message as to why we wanted to remove the tree ourselves.

Oh well, those guys have been plenty busy lately - I hope everyone is happy that they got it cleared so quick. I know we were hoping for more out of the deal, but at least it's clear.

[manual63]

I updated the trail conditions. They are still too wet to ride and with the incoming rain, if we get it, they will take another day or so to dry up once the rain stops. So please give the trails 24 hours, maybe more, before you even think of going out there to ride. The ground is saturated and will take a longer time to dry than usual.

Thank you for staying off wet trails!!! :banana:

[fatbaldpop1]

been gone all week. TW ok to ride Friday evening?

[ryno lite]

Probably not, we had an extremely bad week for rain in the metro.

[fatbaldpop1]

thanks. It is a lot greener than when i left. good for most things...

[ryno lite]

thanks. It is a lot greener than when i left. good for most things...

It's been a long week. It started raining early last Saturday and we haven't been able to ride since. It is nice to see things greener though. I haven't complained about the rain, that's for sure!