Trail Condition In Detail - Redwing

[FarmerBEN]

I was thinking of getting the battery charged up for my lights and riding tonight, how much rain did you guys get in RW and has anyone know of the trail condition? Anyone who wants to join me is welcome to, I figure I will be at the driving range around 7:30 or 8 and do a lap during daylight, and then another lap or so with the light on, this will be my first actual trail ride with the light so I may stick to the ski trail to start with. Just hope that the trails aren't too muddy...

[Wolfchimp]

RW received a good amount of rain. I was down at my parent's house and it poured. I would think that a warm sunny day like today should dry it out pretty well by tonight. Have a good ride!

[hockeynut]

I would think that most of the trail should be tacky at worst today. I hear through the grapevine that it was about 1/2" of rain... with the breeze... drier air and sun it should be good to go. I don't have my lights plugged in, and they don't charge none too fast... so I'm out tonight (plus my legs feel like crap). Have fun and be safe.

Isaac

[FarmerBEN]

at least you guys are planning on trail work tomorrow night so I will only have lay there suffering for about a day if I crash hard

Any locals planning on heading to duluth for the race next week? I was thinking it sounds like a good excuse for a weekend up nort

[pokey]

I will be up in Duluth next week. I would offer to car-pool, but we are making
a long weekend out of it.
I am still on the fence about the last two races of the year.

[hockeynut]

Any locals planning on heading to duluth for the race next week? I was thinking it sounds like a good excuse for a weekend up nort

Talk about a thread hijack... actually if you were leaving Sunday morning at like 5 am I'd be up for going (I'd even drive)... but I'm guessing by "weekend" you mean more than a few hours. I'd love to be up in Duluth all weekend to goof around, but other duty calls on Saturday... darn the luck.

[FarmerBEN]

me, the gf, and her sister/neice are also making a weekend trip of, I may not even ride in the race it just sounds like a good excuse to go, I was just wondering how many familiar faces I would see there...

[hockeynut]

Conditions were pretty much perfect for tonight's ride, despite the mornings rain. Tacky and fun. Some of the rocks and stuff were slick heading down to the quarry, but other than that... sweetness.

The new re-route was a bit soft... but pretty sweet nonetheless.

[Buck]

Damn I knew I should have come down!

L8Rz
Buck

[hockeynut]

The reroute was buffed out a bit tonight.

It is now possible for intermediate type riders to maintain speed into the bit of uphill and over the little log. It will probably take a few days to get ridden in, but should really fly. We'll see on Thursday night on the group ride (6:30 for those not in the know).

[gus man]

The reroute was buffed out a bit tonight.

It is now possible for intermediate type riders to maintain speed into the bit of uphill and over the little log. It will probably take a few days to get ridden in, but should really fly. We'll see on Thursday night on the group ride (6:30 for those not in the know).

Yeah, what he said! :banana: :jumpy:

[hockeynut]

So... the trail is a bit wet right now. It's nothing a few hours of sunshine wouldn't fix. Honestly it's not too bad, so if you're planning a trip down it's probably ok. We weren't really leaving tracks anywhere, but were picking up a little bit of crud on our recon lap this morning.

The new little berm in Margaritaville held up fine, but the downhill leading to it sucks (it's the old trail that keeps eroding) so I am of the thought that we need to extend the reroute to the top of the hill. Too much fall line.

Tomorrow should be perfectly tacky.

Isaac

[RRWilso]

i rode this afternoon/evening from 4:45-8:15 and conditions really couldnt have been much better. i hit every inch of trail and there were no places that were too soggy/wet. the sun must have dryed it up from this morning. the whole trail was nice tacky and fast. a couple of slippery rocks, but nothing hard to handle. i took a bunch of pictures on my ride today but im new here and dont know how to post em' so if someone could send me a shout out it'd be great. anyone want to ride tomorrow? pick a time, im game.

[waitabit]

i rode this afternoon/evening from 4:45-8:15 and conditions really couldnt have been much better. i hit every inch of trail and there were no places that were too soggy/wet. the sun must have dryed it up from this morning. the whole trail was nice tacky and fast. a couple of slippery rocks, but nothing hard to handle. i took a bunch of pictures on my ride today but im new here and dont know how to post em' so if someone could send me a shout out it'd be great. anyone want to ride tomorrow? pick a time, im game.Just click on "Gallery" and in the upper right hand corner you'll see "upload photos", click on that and follow the instructions, you'll be able to browse and upload the pics you want.

[FarmerBEN]

any idea on dryness today? I am hoping to head out around 1230 or 100, anyone who wants to join is welcome...

[hockeynut]

Doubletrack/Ski trails - Mowed short for the upcoming snowy season

Singletrack - a little leafy but dry as a bone in most places... tacky at WORST

Stairway to Heaven - vomit inducing as always... but rideable singlespeed (for the second time ever for me! just had to brag)

My bleeping chainring - bent beyond repair, check your chainbolts people

[Going_Loud]

Anyone been riding Memorial lately? How is the trail conditions?

[Crash]

Anyone been riding Memorial lately? How is the trail conditions?

Not sure your definition of lately, but rode it Sunday afternoon and it was Money! It was dry and pretty packed in from the race. They even blew off parts of the trail that were used for the race. I can't believe the spitting snow would have lessened the conditions, but I haven't been out there this week.

We ran into a couple from Winona on Sunday - was that you?

[Going_Loud]

I was unable to make it to the race, but maybe next year.

[FarmerBEN]

I would imagine it is probably pretty frozen on the surface anyhow, probably great for riding just bundle up.

[Going_Loud]

How has the trail been lately? I was thinking of getting a ride in towards the end of the week.

[hockeynut]

Agh... I should update this thread more often...

The trail is in fine shape. There are leaves covering most of the trail. The gnarlier parts have the lightest cover (they were blown off for the race a couple weekend's ago). Nothing too out of control though.

[Going_Loud]

How is it looking? Going to be up there on Saturday if anyone is interested.

[hockeynut]

Insanely perfect. Went out for a bit of an impromtu Halloween ride tonight, and the sections of trail we did were fast and perfect. The whole trail is super dry, and fast, with a bit of leaf cover. Maybe see you up there, have fun!

Isaac

[Going_Loud]

Sure was sweet today. I was surprised by the lack of leafs on the trail in most areas. Were you guys doing a night ride in costumes? I might of seen you guys. Good stuff.

[hockeynut]

Were you guys doing a night ride in costumes? I might of seen you guys. Good stuff.

Yeah... that was me and Jake. Just a quick unofficial costumed ride.

Glad you enjoyed it up there. The weather couldn't have been better today. Hopefully things keep up. Though the trails actually could use some rain...

[hockeynut]

Trail still 99.9% perfect (or almost perfect... it's TOO dry!). There is a big ole tree or the top 2/3 of a big ole tree down over the trail right before the "5 Way" on the new downhill singletrack. Will need to get up there with my hack saw.

Isaac

[Going_Loud]

Did you make any of those cool jumps? What is the deal with those couple crazy swithbacks just past the teeter? That is a whole different level.

[pokey]

I can probably get up there this weekend and cut up that tree by the 5 way and the one over by the lower quary parking area just after the Peace Coffee jump

[hockeynut]

Did you make any of those cool jumps? What is the deal with those couple crazy swithbacks just past the teeter? That is a whole different level.

Ryan... Do you mean the switchbacks that kinda go up and down the sides of a little gully? If you get to these after the teeter, I hate to tell you, but you're going backwards. Not a big deal, as the trail backwards is pretty fun (I especially like Southern Cross backwards... Stairway is not quite so intimidating going down) and there usually isn't enough traffic to be a real danger to you or anyone else.

My goal for next spring is to have some professionally made plasticy type signs put up at least at a few obvious entrances/exits and some numbery type markers along the trail so when we have a map it's easy to find yourself if lost.

[Going_Loud]

I think you are right. I don't think we were going the right way.

[hockeynut]

Yeah, that section is doable backwards, but doesn't flow so well (seems to be a lot tighter in the corners) and the last uphill is 10X the last uphill going the correct way.

BTW... to update the conditions... the tree in the downhill section was partially cleared by me tonight. The standard (and DH) route is now clear, but the left hand spur is still blocked. My little hand saw could only do so much. And the boogieman was stalking me.... so I wimped out.

[pokey]

Isaac, I am DIGGIN the halloween avatar.... at least I hope it's your halloween avatar.

[FarmerBEN]

I haven't been to red wing today but I am assuming it is allot like here, deep and white.

[krazykatie]

Anyone been out this week?? I would like to try again for this sat.

[hockeynut]

Anyone been out this week?? I would like to try again for this sat.

I'll be heading up there (via foot) in about 30-45 minutes. Hopefully the city has the gates still open (doubtful) but if not I'll be checking out the downhill/Southern Cross areas. If those look promising I'll start poking around further to the northside of things.

My gut tells me Memorial is done until the temperature stays below freezing for a while. Most of the snow that is in the "sun" has melted, but with no wind and no sun nothing is drying up at all. I'll post up my findings, all is not lost.

Isaac

[hockeynut]

UPDATE:

Trail will need a minor miracle to be truly rideable by the weekend. There are decent sized patches that are damp (according to the options given on the trail conditions page) but then there are patches that are covered in a layer of snow/ice/leaves.

We need a good freeze (and stay there). It would be absolutely perfect if it was 22 degrees out.

The doubletrack up from the golfcourse was decent enough that I may charge up the lights and give it a little go on Friday evening. Not enough time for those to plan out a weekend trip to RW, but enough to see if it is worth a good few laps in the day on Sat.

Isaac

[krazykatie]

Thanks for the update!

[hockeynut]

GOOD UPDATE FOR ONCE!

The trail is 100% rideable! Most of the snow (still a few little spots off trail) is melted and the trail has dried out. Larry and I did a couple of laps (each one different) and hit everything that is up there.

The only greasy part was the new singletrack that we built in conjunction with the downhill trail. It was still rideable though. By the weekend it should be even better.

Please be on the lookout for hikers and stuff at all trail junctures. Amazingly we saw 3-4 hikers with dogs tonight. If the weather stays like it is, I can imagine this weekend will be pretty busy up there.

One more note (sorry to ramble): Heard from what I would call a reliable source that the main gate will continue to be open until it snows again. If it is closed either park at Colville Park (just a bit further up 7th St than the main Memorial Entrance) or at the driving range of the Mississippi National Golf Course. From Colville just ride up the main paved road. It's a good warmup. From the driving range, ride up the golfcart path and then watch for the doubletrack ski trail switching back to the left. This will bring you up to the "five way" and the main trails.

Sorry for the novel.

Isaac

[Going_Loud]

Is it dry? Been out lately?

[hockeynut]

Is it dry? Been out lately?

Very dry. Fast. Hard if you fall.

The gate is locked for the year so you have to be slightly creative in getting up there (three known routes - bike up the road, cowpath, driving range). I'm going to take down the teeter sometime this weekend so it doesn't get frozen in.

Oh... I should have been updating this thread... been up there about 4 days straight

[FarmerBEN]

rub it in a little more, I should really get out but cold weather and short day lead to increased sleep, lucky bears with their hibernation...

Off topic who wants to try riding some of the hay creek trails? I assume they should be too frozen to do any actual damage and no need to worry about bothering hikers or horseriders.

[pokey]

I could go for some hay creek trails. I think my Fri PM and Saturday are taken, but sunday or next week would work.

[hockeynut]

Since the question is popping up in other trail threads...

Memorial is way too wet to ride. Lots of rainy... no snowy... and temps just above freezing mean slop slop slop. Please stay off the trails until it freezes for a good day. This winter has sucked so far... hopefully the change of months will get things back on track.

[At the Gates 2121]

I could go for some hay creek trails. I think my Fri PM and Saturday are taken, but sunday or next week would work.

i have heard of hay creek but where is that????

[pokey]

Hay Creek is a trail system normally used by horse traffic. It is a couple miles down the gravel road from the metropolis of Hay Creek, which is about 5 miles "south" of Red Wing on hwy 58. Turn at the Bar/Campground and go until the road takes a 90 degree left. At that left is the beginning of the trails.

It is pretty much worthless as bike trails during the summer since it is mostly sand and horse crap. But, once the horses go away for the season, and the ground freezes, it becomes possible to ride there. It's still not fantastic mountain biking, but it IS trails in the woods and sometimes you can't be picky in the winter.

[At the Gates 2121]

Hay Creek is a trail system normally used by horse traffic. It is a couple miles down the gravel road from the metropolis of Hay Creek, which is about 5 miles "south" of Red Wing on hwy 58. Turn at the Bar/Campground and go until the road takes a 90 degree left. At that left is the beginning of the trails.

It is pretty much worthless as bike trails during the summer since it is mostly sand and horse crap. But, once the horses go away for the season, and the ground freezes, it becomes possible to ride there. It's still not fantastic mountain biking, but it IS trails in the woods and sometimes you can't be picky in the winter.


that makes sense as to why i have never been there just heard of it

[FarmerBEN]

the ethics to riding there is in question being that online it says bikes should only go on designated trails, yet the sign at the parking area says trails open to horses, hikers, skier and "other uses" but given a hard freeze what can we hurt?

[gus man]

Hiked last weekend with the Henke miester. Way to muddy and we will have trees to clear in certain areas.

G. :banana:

[hockeynut]

Looks like most of the trees have been cleared. Thanks!

Was out last night and besides being hella cold the trails are pretty fun to ride. I THINK with studded tires the hills would actually be doable, but with the aired down 2.1 rear I was spinning out a lot. The new 2.55 front actually seemed to work ok. Couldn't really fly into any corners, but that's not the point of riding in snow, at night, when it's below zero, by yourself anyway.

I wanted to, but didn't hit Southern Cross/Stairway. Started going down to the quarry and then snapped out of that delusion. Did "Lay Down", and "Margaritaville" before I realized my toes were little frozen clubs and I should head to the car post-haste.

Caution: There is glare ice underneath the snow on the upper portion of the DH course. So be careful about bombing it (though to be realistic who else will ride it now anyways).

iSaac

[FarmerBEN]

It is true you are the local hardcore, we are all slackers

[hockeynut]

It is true you are the local hardcore, we are all slackers

You're not so much slackers so much as wimps and pansies. Though that MIGHT be the last zero or colder night I head out until I get some better footwear.

[pokey]

Marcus (my son) and I walked most of the intermediate trail today. The south facing side is summer conditions, however the north side ranges from moist/tacky to damp with some spots that are still wet and quite soft. Riding the whole trail right now would cause damage in places. Please hold off. My guess is given the forecast, things might be rideable by next weekend or even for the Thursday night ride.
There were 3 trees that will require a chain saw, but everything else we were able to move by hand.

[gus man]

I just got back from a hike. And totally agree with you Lary. I little wet but riding conditions are just around the corner. Maybe this Thursday.

[Matthew]

Anybody check out conditions yesterday? Just wondering if a ride there this weekend would be possible.

[hockeynut]

Anybody check out conditions yesterday? Just wondering if a ride there this weekend would be possible.

Memorial is dry enough to be open (at least the 95% of what I have seen). There are a handful of trees down (nothing dangerous) so that has kept me from posting the official "it's open" thread.

The RW group rode up there last night and will be out tomorrow doing some cleanup (of garbage and hopefully clearing trees).

So in short -- Yes, feel free to hit up Memorial.

Note: the gate may not be open. That just gives you a nice warmup anyways.

[FarmerBEN]

we just rode last night and nearly all the trail was great, just the newest section of single track was a bit soft. you will have to ride up from the golf course because the road to the top is closed. let me know when you are planning on it, I have a busy weekend but I am hoping to get out sometime.

[Matthew]

Cool thanks a lot guys. Let me know if you need a chain saw up there. I will be working at steeplechase in the morning and then hopefully riding up there in the afternoon and I can bring my chain saw along if there are a few trees that need sawing.

[hockeynut]

Thanks for the offer Matt. I think we'll have the chainsaw covered (Larry or Gus... wanna bring yours?) though. I am pumped to get TI out of the way so I can strip about 10 pounds of lights and racks and whatnot off my bike and put a reasonable gear on the ole SS.

For those who might be in Red Wing to ride tomorrow morning/afternoon. There will be some folks out on the trails doing some clean up of trash and hopefully trees. Just be aware as you fly around corners. Also... like Ben said. Either park at Colville Park and ride up the regular route, park somewhere downtown that won't get you in trouble and ride up the Cowpath, or park at the driving range for Mississippi National and ride up from there.... the main gate will not be open for the general public this weekend

[waitabit]

When are they opening the gate up?

[hockeynut]

When are they opening the gate up?

Who needs the gate to be open? It's an easy climb up to the top... at least for a singlespeed 29er.

Actually there were rumors circulating that the gates would be open for this past weekend, but status changed at the last minute. I would guess that the gates will be open by this upcoming weekend, but I can post up when they actually are opened. The park is 100% open for use, the city is just playing it safe with their relatively new pavement. They don't like to open the gates up until the moisture level of the dirt around/under the road is to a certain level.

[hockeynut]

Rode this morning and it's perfectly tacky. I think the cities (and points west) got tons of rain compared to R-Dub. I guess there is one thing to look out for, after the little rock garden in the quarry there is a small tree that is angling into the trail. With deft maneuvering you can avoid it without straying from the trail, but it's kinda in the way. The weather report is actually looking halfways decent for SE MN today so might be a good day to road trip if you need your offroad fix.

[FarmerBEN]

anyone know how the trails are for this evening? I am hoping for a bike and brew if anyone wants to join me...

[hockeynut]

No clue. Would guess that the Quarry, Spin Cycle, and the upper portion of DH trail (and the uphill stuff leading up to it) are still pretty soft. But I could be wrong. I have no clue what tonight holds (just getting off work... ugh) so might be able to check it out around 6:30-7:00.

[pokey]

There is a log down in "Centerfold", the spin-cycle like section near the start. I will try to get up there tonight or tomorrow with a chain saw and cut it up.

[pokey]

The downed log has been cleared. I believe kudos go to Jason for that.
The trail was nearly perfect last night (just before the rain), now it will be a bit greasy for a day or two.
I recommend wearing some sort of eye protection up there as the recent monsoons have grown several face slappers on the course.

[hockeynut]

Update since it's been a while.... this isn't first hand either, but figured with the weekend coming up I'd post what I know.

- The dirt should range from bone dry and dusty in parts to damp in others. For 95% of the trail though I would expect that the trail will be in perfect condition.

- Stairway will either never be easier (if the rain washed the rocks off the main path) or will be impossible (if rocks that were off the main path got washed onto it). Good luck! Last week I found it to be super rideable (as I made it up 36-20... first time this year on the single), but that changes day to day.

- There are a few trees down at various points that will probably not be cleared before the weekend. We had a couple of violent but short little storms blow through the past couple of days, and we have a little work to do because of that. Shouldn't be a big deal, just be on the lookout.

- In places the annual overgrowth is finally taking effect. We're starting the trimming process, but we don't get 5-10 people out with loppers/weed whips so it's an incremental process. Again, it isn't a huge deal to me, and just adds to the ruggedness of the trail.

Look for some of this to get cleared up next week (I'm out of town or would be working on it this weekend). Thanks, and happy trails (or something).

Isaac

[pokey]

Things are shaping up. The tree that was blocking is gone and we weed-whipped and de-stickified Lay Down Sally and Crazy on you.
Get up there and Ride !

[hockeynut]

Conditions tonight: Dry and fast. A few sections are pretty overgrown, but we'll hit those next week Monday. I guess there was a tree down and a sleeping drunkard on the Cowpath, so watch for that if you decide to bike up from downtown and use the rustic singletrack.

All in all should be a good weekend to ride. Come on down for a ride and stay for the Guess Who! Too bad I'm out of town this weekend... darnit :zzz: :D

[jholiday]

My brother in law and I are hoping to ride Memorial tomorrow morning. Any info on the condition of the trail would be helpful, we're coming from Mpls.

[pokey]

We had rain today. With the sun, most trails will be damp, but probably ridable, with the exception of the "spin cycle" gully section right near the start and the new single track section at the far end of the bluff from start (right after the log drop gully crossing). They are both very slow to dry.
I will likely be doing a bit of trail work tonight and will try and update if I find conditions worse than stated.

[hockeynut]

We had rain today.

Really? My car windows were open all day and nothing got wet, must have been downtown that got hit. Sorry I'm out of town tonight Larry, otherwise I'd help you out with whatever work you're up to.

Like Larry said, I'd guess if it doesn't rain anymore tonight it shouldn't be too bad (and in most places will be dry but not dusty) and actually might be about perfect.

[jholiday]

I'll check the site before we go to see if you've found that it's too wet. Thanks for the info, we're looking forward to it

[hockeynut]

I just ran through the "Spin Cycle" section which is probably the 2nd or 3rd wettest spot normally up on the bluff. It's dry, my shoes didn't make any impression at all.

So, should be perfect conditions where we've been able to weed whip. So... for this weekend... conditions are: PERFECT (unless there is a tree down somewhere)

Notes:

- thanks to the city for mowing the ski trail/starting meadow. It was getting amazingly overgrown, now it's mint

- WATCH FOR HIKERS AND DOG WALKERS... on my little five minute run and drive down the bluff I saw roughly a half dozen people walking dogs (in some cases multiple) or about ready to walk dogs. Please watch for people when the trail uses the doubletrack or crosses the doubletrack and be courteous. I have never experienced surly or angry hikers while biking, but I don't want anything to start either. THanks!

- There will be some slightly overgrown sections as we haven't been able to walk the whole trail with loppers and trimmers. We should be done in a couple of weeks.

[gus man]

Riding was excelent today. The grass loops along the tree lines (firebreakes) were mowed last week. Not all of the double is mowed yet. I would imagine that to happen very soon. Over all the trails are awesome. The local club, R.A.M.B.O., has been very buisy lately clearing and cleaning. Kudos to all of them. Enjoy their efforts. GET OUT AND RIDE.:banana:

[hockeynut]

The trail is in pristine condition. Most of the trail is free of face slappers (still a couple of spots to weed whip) and it's all hardpack at it's best. Stairway is reportedly in it's gnarliest/loose rockiest/very hard to climb best too. Mmmmmm tasty.

[FarmerBEN]

anybody check the trails this morning? I am hoping to take some friends out this morning, but if rw got as much rain as goodhue it might be a bit soft, if someone would let me know how mucky it is I Would really appreciate it.

[hockeynut]

Have a good ride Ben.

Red Wing didn't get hit with much rain I don't think. Factor in that the trail was bone dry and it should actually be perfect conditions I would think. I haven't been up on the trails, but using my gut and experience with the trails up there.

[2_whl_boost]

We're planning on coming down there this morning from the cities. Hope all is well!

[FarmerBEN]

I am generally amazed by how fast the trails dry

[pokey]

The trails were damp to perfect this afternoon.

[hockeynut]

The trails are 99.5% trimmed and ready for the race in a couple weeks. That means that they are in the best condition that they will be in all year. We need to trim a few of the offshoot trails that aren't in the race, but that should happen in the next couple of weeks.

There is also a little rock "skinny" a bit before the teeter that is an optional little tester.

If the Jughead Convention wasn't this weekend I'd say there won't be a better weekend to come down and ride.

[Tower]

Nice trail RW trail workers!!! The mix of trail types makes Memorial the best all around trail in the TC... I hope you guys can get the volunteer help you need to keep it up...

Race course question-
Where will the xc race be routed after the merge with the DH course? Will the xc route divert onto the fireroad and climb back up the hill? The old race course flowed on what is now an overgrown line then dumping into a ravine all the way down the hill to climb back up...

Does my question make sense?

Oh yeah, nice work planting that elephant box at the bottom of the DH run... I had to take the Ricoh point on that trap... Farm Team basically gave it to me... "Point."

[Buck]

Oh yeah, nice work planting that elephant box at the bottom of the DH run..."

Its called The Whale.:crazy: :laugh:

weRd!
Buck

[pokey]

At the end of the upper downhill section, the course will do a short loop just behind and around around the big 5 way intersection (with the map post). Then it will head up the doubletrack towards the big meadow. If I understand you correctly, the course you describe hasn't been used for a while now. The overgrown section and the gully chute aren't used. Gus will likely be posting full course maps shortly on the MNSCS site.

[Tower]

Copy the xc route flow, I noticed the trim work on the round about...

I think you should run the xc experts down the full DH, and for every stunt we skip we have to sit for one minute... I'd either have a shot or I'd finally blow up my pop can...

10-4 Buck, You'll have to make an elephant box for the skyride this winter then...

Its called The Whale.:crazy: :laugh:

weRd!
Buck

[gus man]

Maps are posted on mnscs site. Just for Larry a jump contect.

[hockeynut]

Some of the snow fencing is up for the race on the 29th. Note: This means that one section of the singletrack will now be run in a different manner than normal. When you hit the snow fence head up into the meadow and hug the woods to the left... watch for a mowed section of singletrack to your left and take a left onto the singletrack.... ("crazy on you" is being run backwards)

Trails are in mint condition (if not a bit dusty as it's so dry). Stairway is at it's sadistic best.

[hockeynut]

Everyone do their little rain dance. It hasn't rained in about 2 months down here and with the race last weekend it's definately starting to show. Watch out for a few loose dusty corners. Other than that it's not that bad if you don't mind inhaling dust. Watch out for the old small pile of logs in "Crazy on You". It has claimed two forks in the past 5 days from yours truly.

[bikebud]

You wrecked another fork!!? Was this on the Fisher this time? Hope you came out of it unscathed like the fork break on race day!

[hockeynut]

Yep. I just blew up the rebound damper thingy in my White Brothers fork. Nothing serious. On to my cross bike with knobby tires!

Back on the subject: It finally rained for a decent part of today. Should be perfect tomorrow.

[slim]

What is the trail and the town like after the flooding this weekend?
Hopefully no one got there house flooded.

[hockeynut]

Thankfully Red Wing proper is all high and relatively dry. We "only" got 3-4 inches over the weekend and another few this week. It sounds like another couple of inches by tomorrow afternoon are possible.

I haven't been up on the trail for a bit to see what it's like. The actual storms of a couple weekends ago didn't faze it, but I'm not sure what the soakers have done. I'd say it's still a bit too wet to ride tonight/tomorrow but I would guess that this weekend should be pretty good. I will try and get out to check things out tomorrow before our group ride (which will be a gravel grinder).

Thanks for asking.

[hockeynut]

It's raining yet again. Don't know how much we got, but I see that River Falls got almost 1/2 an inch... so I'd guess we're close to that. The trails will be very slick for at least the first half or today if not the whole day.

With the leaves down, and the rain that we seem to keep getting every day or so it's probably going to be a bit wet for great riding. If you're picking up a ton of dirt on the tires and sliding all around please turn back and just gaze at leaves like all of the dorky leafers. Thanks.

[cold_mofo]

Anyone ride here in the last 2-3 days? What's the trail condition?

[hockeynut]

I rode a bit of the ski trail on Wednesday and it was pretty greasy (especially with the leaves). It has since rained all day Thursday, and a little yesterday before getting breezy. I won't have a chance to get up to the trails today, but I would guess that they are pretty wet since there was zero sun yesterday.

Later this afternoon is probably your best bet, or if it keeps from raining tomorrow they should be good to go then.

If worst comes to worse if you came down to try it out you could always do the doubletrack (which ends up giving you at least a workout) if the trail is too greasy. Just beware of all of the leafers that are sure to be in town clogging everything up.

[FarmerBEN]

I rode all the singletrack around 11ish and it was all pretty good with the exception of the new section which was a tad slick. Wet leaves make climbing a challenge, but still was a great morning for a ride, let's hope this shot of rain misses us for a change.

[hockeynut]

RAMBO rode at 1:00 or so. Didn't get to the Quarry as hot dogs were calling some of our riders' names... Definately slick with leaves in some spots, but all in all not too bad at all. Most of the small limbs and what not that were on the trail are now moved off to the side too... fun day riding for sure!

[hockeynut]

Tree down across the ski trail just above the 5-way. Not an issue if ridden the correct way (will have to jump over the tree... it's big) but if going backwards it could sneak up on ya.

[pokey]

I got in a ride yesterday and things are in great shape.
Keep in mind that there are lots of leaves down that obscure hidden roots and rocks. They also get quite slick when wet.
There are also quite a few thumb-sized sticks here and there that are just itching to find there way into your gears (if you haven't drank the single-speed cool-aid yet)

[pokey]

I removed the downed tree by the 5-way, the tree that was part way into the trail before the Hwy 61 short meadow rest stop, the vine that was into the trail in the quarry and the tree that was down on the Isaac cut-off. If anyone knows of any other downed trees, let me know.
Everything I walked looked good, with a heavy covering of leaves.

[FarmerBEN]

Lar you are a machine,

[Wolfchimp]

I rode yesterday and other than a decent covering of leaves, the trails are in great condition. The DH is also in pretty decent condition too. Any plans to flag some new trail before the snow flies???

[hockeynut]

Any plans to flag some new trail before the snow flies???

As of now I think we're going to look at some things with the snowshoes on. Maybe if everyone's schedules free up a bit after turkey day maybe we'll get out, but I don't see it happening in the next couple weekends. (plus with hunting I prefer to stay on the regular trails out of respect/courtesy to any hunters that might be out there)

[hockeynut]

Trail is in awesome shape. Lots of leaves down. When mixed with a dusting of snow and freezing temps that's a slippery combo. The next day it gets above freezing will be a bit damp as there was a decent amount of snow for what it seemed like we were getting (nothing horrible though).

[Wolfchimp]

Rode today...trail is in great shape. The little snow that was received, didn't affect the trail. There is still a lot of leaf coverage though so there can be some slick spots but I only ran into a couple on the south side.

[Captain Lance Murdoch]

I was up there last weekend and conditions ranged between sticky mud on the sunny side to ice on the shady side. Should be melting fast though. I will be up there sunday morning working on some drainage issues if anyone wants to join me.

[hockeynut]

I will be up there sunday morning working on some drainage issues if anyone wants to join me.

If I can walk after Saturday (planning on riding the full race course for the following weekend) I may be up for it. What time are you thinkin'?

[Captain Lance Murdoch]

Probably 9-10. Depends on if it rains.

[Captain Lance Murdoch]

First, hikers give you a wide berth when you are carrying a machete.

Second, the trails are still very wet in most places, with large sections still covered in ice. It is definitely still closed. Someone (with WTB Wierwolf tires) had ridden at least the downhill section, (that is were I was working) and left some pretty good ruts in a few spots. The ground was still pretty frozen, which made de-berming a challenge. Hopefully this rain will take care of the ice.

[hockeynut]

Thanks Jason. Sorry I missed it, had front row seats at the Dome for the huge Twins game...

Hopefully this rain, and what looks like more rain this week will melt everything. Then a couple of weeks of sun and wind and we'll be riding....

[AndrewMay]

"It is definitely still closed. Someone (with WTB Wierwolf tires) had ridden at least the downhill section, (that is were I was working) and left some pretty good ruts in a few spots."

Trail poaching season is upon us...

[Captain Lance Murdoch]

Got up there again today, raked and de-bermed the new singletrack/downhill trail. Someone had ridden again since I was up there last weekend. Different person this time, running Intense tires (looked like a 2.3) Seriously folks, we're closed.

[gus man]

I will be up there this Thursday to check things out. I 'm thinking around noon. Let me know if you want to tag along.

Gus

[bigpeddler]

I was going to head up there this afternoon to walk parts of the trail - let me know if anyone is interested.

Is the road to the top open yet?

[pokey]

Just came back from up there. No, the road is still closed, probably will be for a couple more weeks. The city doesn't normally open it up very quickly.

The trails are coming along, but are still quite soft in places.

[pokey]

The trails were pretty well ready before the rain. With the next few days being rainy and cooler, it's going to be a while before they are ready again.

There are several downed trees that I will take care of next week or possibly this weekend if I have time.

The teeter has a broken span board and is no longer safe. We propped it up to keep folks off of it until we can replace the broken board.

The new and improved "Isaac cutoff" is complete. It's similar to before, but instead of going briefly into the meadow and heading towards the top of Stairway, it remains in the woods.

[Captain Lance Murdoch]

I will fix the teeter on sunday. If anyone wants to help I will be heading up at around 9 from the golf course. (unless the gate is open)

[pokey]

I removed the teeter from it's mounts. It weighs about 350 pounds, so you might consider waiting until you can drive a car up there.

I also did the loop with a chainsaw taking out 7 or 8 downed trees.

[Captain Lance Murdoch]

The teeter is fixed. You have to realize that telling me something will be hard to do just makes me want to do it more.

[hockeynut]

Trails are in awesome, summer like or better, shape. Give the trail 12-24 hours after any appreciable rainfall but otherwise get out and ride.

Note: Lots of leaves and stuff are on the trail but nothing too bad, it is mountain biking afterall. Just so you know it's not a perfectly groomed trail.

[AndrewMay]

Rode the trail tonight. It was in great shape! No mud. Thanks to whoever put in the work to clear downed trees.

[hockeynut]

Trail conditions are as follows:

- Pretty much perfect.

However: Lots of leaves on the descent down "Southern Cross" (leads to the Stairway to Heaven" climb) off of the doubletrack. A tree is down (can ride under it) in "Crazy On You" (which is the singletrack before the little bridge that is on the top of the bluff).

Stairway is very "rideable" for so early in the season with only one nasty spot that I don't really know what the right line is. The rest is pretty much line free but if you keep the weight even and the legs churning evenly you can do it. If I can ALMOST make it up 34-18 you can do it!

[hockeynut]

Trail is almost in it's mid-summer dry condition. Everything is dialed in. This weekend will be great to get out and ride (12 hour race should be good to go trailwise unless there are major surprises).

The new short re-route of the Quarry bypass needs to be ridden in (along with a bit more de-nubbining of the little brush that was cleared) but is better than the old option (that most out of towners didn't know about or use).

[hockeynut]

We need some rain. Not a sprinkle. Not a down pour... just a nice steady rain for a few hours.

A few sandy spots, lots of dusty loose stuff. Other than that it's all good.

[hockeynut]

Currently the trails are in pretty much perfect condition. Stairway is a bear, but doable (no real line, but the rolling little rocks are more stationary). Hopefully the 50% rain stays away.

Oh. Remember the mosquito repellent unless you like getting bitten. They are INSANE!!!!

[AferVentus]

Did the trail receive the rain that the Metro trails did yesterday? I would like to get out for a ride somewhere, but I don't want to ride on a wet trail.

[hockeynut]

We got dumped on for about an hour yesterday (I'm guessing it's not as bad as in the cities). With the amount of rain we've had this spring (not much) and how windy it is today (insane) and how fast the trail generally dries (pretty quickly) I would guess that it should be nice and tacky sometime tomorrow. If you were thinking about today it's probably a bit greasy.

Note: The first of the Jolly Roger races is up on the bluff tomorrow afternoon/late morning. There is one section of trail that is used for the DH trail and one spot on doubletrack where it crosses the trail. I'm assuming that there will be tape and whatnot, so it should be obvious what is going on. The rest of the trail is open to the public, so feel free to come down and have fun!

[Buck]

what up!

down here right now settin' up the DH course! trails are mint right now!!!!

weRd!
Buck
Posted via Mobile Device

[hockeynut]

Cats and Dogs right now. Crummy timing. :hit:

XC trails are going to be greasy with a capital g. Probably best to stay off of the XC stuff until late this afternoon or tomorrow.

The DH drains better than a lot of the XC stuff so I'd guess it will be wet, and greasy too, but should be a hoot, so don't let a little rain stop you from coming down for the race. (at least as of 9 am)

[hockeynut]

Trails are in pretty good condition overall. Only things to watch out for are the dusty corners and piles of gnats and mosquitos if you slow down/stop.

2112 is rideable but pretty overgrown. It's not on the race course, so it's last in line for the trimming treatment.

Thanks to all of those who are helping out with keeping the trails clear!

[FarmerBEN]

Trails are in pretty good condition overall. Only things to watch out for are the dusty corners and piles of gnats and mosquitos if you slow down/stop.





the bugs really add injury to insult while walking up stairway.

I did a little work on clearing the trail out to the sandstone drop (bootleg) it's still not great but the first half is at least almost ridable, I need to put a blade on the trimmer and go finish, I don't know if I will have a chance to before the fourth though.

[pokey]

Lee made the mistake of following me out to the sandstone drop last night. It is quite overgrown beyond the trimmed area. Only for the adventurous.