Trail Conditions in Detail - Lebanon Hills

[FormerFarmKing]

It's severe weather awareness week and they blew the sirens at 1:45 and 6:45 yesterday.

[Mountain Jam]

I was out at Battle Creek in between the sirens, and my buddy and I got a healthy helping of hail, along with some rain! I shouldn't forget to mention I cracked my helmet on a nice head plant, great way to start the year.

[gopherhockey]

We will be doing some GPS and minor maintenance on the trail tomorrow morning (Sat) at 9am. I don't know that it will be dry enough to ride by then, but if you are out there please ride with caution.

If it is wet and you are riding, we will yell at you and take away your birthday... :p

[gopherhockey]

Its raining at Leb again... please stay off the trail tonight and tomorrow morning. If the wind picks up and the sun comes out maybe by tomorrow evening.

If people don't respect the wet conditions we'll ask Dakota to put up the fence for the weekend. I don't want to have to micromanage trail closures like though. So far I think people have been really good about it.

[timmy]

We will be doing some GPS and minor maintenance on the trail tomorrow morning (Sat) at 9am.

John, are you still doing this at 9am? If you are do you need any help?

Greg

[gopherhockey]

John, are you still doing this at 9am? If you are do you need any help?

Greg

Yup, we're on for 9am. A few people are going to show up and help do some minor maintenance - if you want to walk along and help out you are welcome to join us!

Hopefully soon we'll also have a nice new GPS map of the trail...

[timmy]

Yup, we're on for 9am. A few people are going to show up and help do some minor maintenance - if you want to walk along and help out you are welcome to join us!

Hopefully soon we'll also have a nice new GPS map of the trail...

Great! I will be there.

[Thewavebb]

is there any hope for a ride later today????? I'm getting twitchy:D

[Ish]

is there any hope for a ride later today????? I'm getting twitchy:D

Yes - just got off the cell with Tex and it is primo! Go Ride.

[Thewavebb]

.........and Ben runs out the door with his bike :banana: :banana:

[gopherhockey]

Its damp but ok. We just finished up the GPS work as well, so the trail is clear.

A few of us are riding around 3pm if anyone is interested...

[Ish]

A few of us are riding around 3pm if anyone is interested...

Heading out the door now. I thow some beverages in the truck!!!

[gopherhockey]

Heading out the door now. I thow some beverages in the truck!!!

Craig took a pretty bad spill today just before the double jump. I'll let him give details (if he remembers) but lets just say Ted and I had to walk him out and he still didn't remember what happened. His wife has him now and they are at the hospital for the routine check-up.

Craig, let us know how you are once you read this...

Its no fun when this happens. I'm shook up and feel like I need to slow things down a little... one just never knows when somethign bad can happen.

I'm ordering my bikeid immediately. We almost had to use Craigs...

[syntaxjunkie]

No fun indeed. If you're up to reading things, Craig, I hope you're feeling a little better and at least remembering the salient points of your life (like that $50 you owe me :)).

In all seriousness, I'm always a little wary of riding alone, even though that's how I tend to get most of my riding in. I carry ID, my insurance card and a cell phone, but none of those things would do me much good if I were, say, unconscious.

At the risk of sounding heavy, there will always be a risk in riding, no matter how careful we are. So whether we all know each other or not, we're counting on each other to stop and help out if something happens.

When people have reported injuries or crashes on these pages, it seems like there have always been riders (in a lot of cases, MORC members) on the scene to help out. Just another reminder that people are good.

[destrago]

I'm ordering my bikeid immediately. We almost had to use Craigs...

When I ride alone (road or mountain) I always have at least my driver's license in my shorts, just in case somone finds me. My girlfriend and I have talked about getting road-ids, since she's a runner too. They're a really good idea, and probably worth 1000x their cost if you ever end up needing to use it.

-Tony

[tedsti]

It always sucks to see a good man go down (not that way). Hopefully Craig is on his way to a full recovery sooner rather than later.

Craig took a pretty bad spill today just before the double jump. I'll let him give details (if he remembers) but lets just say Ted and I had to walk him out and he still didn't remember what happened. His wife has him now and they are at the hospital for the routine check-up.

[Ish]

Hopefully Craig is on his way to a full recovery sooner rather than later.

Maybe a little longer than I had hopped, but it doens't look like any permanent damange. Here are the details (http://www.morcmtb.org/forums/showthread.php?t=16580) - at least what I remember.

[Ish]

I'll let him give details (if he remembers)

I don't..... call me. Sorry you didn't get the beer, or was that I 12 pack I had brought???;)

[gopherhockey]

The trail was in good shape this Sunday. The lot was busy! Now I remember why I usually road ride on the weekends.

I hate to always be talking negative, but it goes with the job...

We saw a lot of individuals riding out on the walking paths. I suspect they were too tired to just finish out on the beginner loop - OR - they were doing some trail bypassing. Please remember if you don't have a medical or mechanical you should NOT be on the hiking trails. Believe me, hikers notice every little bike track and Dakota hears about it. Lets show that we can be responsible enough to have our own non shared trail. We don't want to have to start blocking trail entrances that come close to the hiking trails (or worse - removing those sections of trail completely).

If you see other bikers not following the rules please feel free to mention something to them... I really don't want to start closing trail sections down due to people not able to read signs... so the more people that help raise awareness the better.

Thanks!

[bikeoutback]

If you see other bikers not following the rules please feel free to mention something to them... I really don't want to start closing trail sections down due to people not able to read signs... so the more people that help raise awareness the better.

Thanks!

I saw three bikers on the hiking path on my walk into trailwork last tuesday one did have a mechanical, the other two were just not up to date on current paths, I pointed them in the right direction, they appreciated it. Kinda funny when I was walking out with my flat I shortcut a couple of spots but carried my bike to make no marks off the bike track cause I didn't want to hear about it on here and I even had a mechanical.

[biking_stickman]

I came across three trail runners on the intermediate loop yesterday. When I stopped and let them know they were on the wrong trail, I got "yeah, we know but this trail is more fun" as a reply.

[gopherhockey]

I came across three trail runners on the intermediate loop yesterday. When I stopped and let them know they were on the wrong trail, I got "yeah, we know but this trail is more fun" as a reply.

I always remind them that they are not safe even running along the trail. They get into the park and end up running on closed trails etc. Unfortunately for us it is always bikes that are quickest to blame for this type of thing while hikers can do no wrong.

We are going to try get with Dakota County again and see if we can get the patrol back out there. Perhaps with some amount of authority on the trail regularly we can change some of this before it gets out of hand.

[CookieMonster]

Just got back from riding the trail today.... it was awesome :D Get out and ride!!!



~Mo

[trompete]

Trail was great tonight. Only complaint was REALLY bumpy downhills. Do you guys periodically smooth those out and cut people's back brake wire? :)

[gopherhockey]

Trail was great tonight. Only complaint was REALLY bumpy downhills. Do you guys periodically smooth those out and cut people's back brake wire? :)

We try keep on top of them, but its very difficult... they usually just form up in a few weeks. We're going to have to address them in a more permanent way.

I like the cutting of brake wire idea.

[dopey048]

Did one last trail ride before the ironman. Coming down the last part of the X loop you can really see that log mountain, I can't wait to try til I'm blue in the face to get over that thing.

Lots of people out today, talked to Ted for a bit.

The bumps just remind me to stay loose and use my legs and arms to absorb all the imperfections of the trail. Dont really notice them anymore. Plus I learned that the front brake is the only one I need most of the time.

[tedsti]

Mucho Primo. Nuff said.

Had to park along the side since all spots were full. Good to see you Gabe.

[gopherhockey]

Looks like rain has started and probably won't let up for a few days. I'd plan on not riding for a while.

Dakota may close the parking lot during this extended rain - we'll see...

[gopherhockey]

I have asked Dakota County to close the trail and parking lot for a few days (if they haven't already). Even if the sun comes out Tuesday it would be good to keep people off even though we're all going to be eager to ride again.

We'll likely have trailwork as usual though... more on that in a separate thread.

[gopherhockey]

Dakota County verified that Lebanon Hills is closed until further notice.

We'll give it a good 24 hours + after the sun comes out before it will be open again. Hopefully before the weekend!

Again... trailwork is still on. What a great excuse to come out and work since you can't ride. And if you show up to trailwork you have a license to throw tools at anyone caught poaching the trails! ;)

[destrago]

Again... trailwork is still on. What a great excuse to come out and work since you can't ride. And if you show up to trailwork you have a license to throw tools at anyone caught poaching the trails! ;)

Dibs on Bob's limb-cleaver.

[gopherhockey]

Ted and I just hiked around in Leb tonight scouting out for what we'll be doing on Tuesday night at trailwork.

It is extremely wet with lots of soft spots, but there are portions of the trail holding nice and solid. I'm guessing more than 24 hours of sun will be required to dry things out for riding though. Lets hope the rain doesn't continue as is forecast so we can get back on the trails later in the week.

[gopherhockey]

Whats that big yellow thing up in the sky today? Where did all the clouds go? :cool:

Makes a person want to ride doesn't it....

Well, the trails are just now starting to dry out. After a few days of rain, lets give them some time. I know that 70 degrees and sunny is great riding weather... thats why there are paved trails and road bikes.

There is a 50% chance of more rain tonight. If we avoid the rain we should be able to open things up Wed. or Thursday depending on how quick things dry up.

Again, Dakota County has closed the trails and the parking lot. We'll let you know when things are open again. We normally don't micro-manage trail closures like this, but in the spring we often get these long rains and it was necessary to just close the lot because too many bikers got itchy the minute the sun came out.

To all poachers: There will be workers on the trail over the next few days as we work on a few new re-routes. You will be caught and your bike will be buried under our new trail. ;)

[gopherhockey]

Just as we finished trailwork tonight it started to really come down again at Leb. Look for the trail re-opening to happen maybe Thursday.

We caught 3 poachers tonight. All had gone right through the orange "trail closed" fence/sign and still asked us "are the trails closed?"

Two of them rode away from me as I yelled at them, so I ran up the bypass and caught them crossing over onto the XX loop on Jan's rock. I walked them all the way out to the Galaxie entrance.

The next showed up as we were finishing trailwork. I think he felt pretty stupid... we had him walk his bike out as well. At least he didn't try outrun me. Can't be done, I know the trail too well and how to cut people off ;)

I have no doubt there will be more poachers tomorrow... but we'll be out with the machines and hopefully I can chase them out as well.

I just don't understand the mentality to cross an orange fence with a trail closed sign on it. I just don't! I know we talk about this all the time but it just kills me that people are that selfish or stupid. What makes them so special that they can ride while the rest of us are being patient OR working on the trails instead of riding them.

Anyway.. please be patient, maybe one more full day of drying... if the rain keeps off.

[trompete]

Thanks for watching over the trail.

If it helps, a lot of us are watching this thread like a hawk and will wait until you give the OK.

[syntaxjunkie]

Dude, I'm going to start calling you The Sheriff.

Nice work. Hang 'em high.

[gopherhockey]

Thanks for watching over the trail.

If it helps, a lot of us are watching this thread like a hawk and will wait until you give the OK.

I have to say that I greatly appreciate riders who are willing to do this. I think we have really come a long way as a riding community and I always try to remind myself that for every poacher there are more and more that are willing to work together on openings and closings.

Thanks for posting this. It reminds me why I still want to keep working hard to keep Leb as good as it can be. Its also why I want to try not be too picky about trail closings and keep it open as much as possible so that everyone can get out there and enjoy!

Rep points for you!

[gopherhockey]

We had conversation among the MORC board regarding our role as educators vs. enforcers out on the trails. As we work this out I am sure we will give everyone some feedback. Until then I wanted to give some added information on the happenings of yesterday regarding the three bikers that were told to leave the park.

Long story short, I really try and do my best to educate riders (and hikers etc.) and not make enemies... even if it came off as enforcement. The two riders I had to chase down were asked to leave and they asked me for the quickest way out of the park. I then led them on foot to the nearest exit. On the way I took the opportunity to educate them on why we want riders to stay out and it triggered a good question and answer session. I think they did know better, but hopefully not lecturing them the whole way out will work to our benefit next time they think about doing the same thing. Its a touchy situation to be in because everyone reacts differently to being "caught". It is something I will continue to discuss with the board and also with our land manager to be sure the expecations are as clear as they can be.

Thanks for letting me clarify. :D

Back to trail conditions... speaking of which, I'm guessing that tomorrow we will be back to riding conditions at Leb. I'll be out there this afternoon - if things look good I'll let everyone know. My guess is the soonest Dakota could open things up would be tomorrow morning.

[bikeoutback]

We had conversation among the MORC board regarding our role as educators vs. enforcers out on the trails. As we work this out I am sure we will give everyone some feedback.

It is something I will continue to discuss with the board and also with our land manager to be sure the expecations are as clear as they can be.


I know that being a park after 10pm when it is closed is illegal and you can receive a ticket if caught, wouldn't being in an obviously closed park be the same thing? I guess my thinking is politely being asked to leave seems to be getting off better than receiving a trespassing ticket in my opinion. It's not like it isn't blatanly obvious the trail is closed.

[tedsti]

Just got a text from John L. He thinks the trail should be good tomorrow morning.

[ryno lite]

I would have tried to get away from John L. as well if I was a poacher last night. He had a chainsaw, axes and all sorts of scary tools with him to exact his punishment! Trail poachers beware!

I agree with John though, there were multiple orange fences to go around with trail closed signs and they still do it, I just don't understand the mentality of these people! Closed is closed, can't anyone understand this????

[gopherhockey]

Spoke to Dakota County today, they are opening up Lebanon tomorrow morning (Thursday)

And as a big thanks to everyone for being so patient.. the second lap is free! ;)

Dale and I were out digging with the machines on one of the new trails today. Please stay off if/when you see it - they are muddy and need to firm up... plus they are dangerous to ride.

See ya on the trail...

[El-Rock]

will someone be changing the trail conditions page on Leb?
Is it open?

[gopherhockey]

will someone be changing the trail conditions page on Leb?
Is it open?

Done. Dakota County told me they would open the trail this morning (Thursday) although I have not verified it myself. It is open to ride now and I removed the orange fence on the Galaxie side. (Dakota will remove it on the parking lot side)

[London]

So, has anyone been out there? I was planning to head out there in about an hour to check it out, but it's a bit of a drive if it's still closed...

I wanna dance! :banana:

[gopherhockey]

I am going to investigate the possibility to do email updates to this thread. That way those with a blackberry or other email enabled device can do live updates. ;)

[trompete]

Going at 5 PM tonight with Chris D and possibly Shad H.

[London]

I just got back from doing the intermediate/expert/beginner route. It was fantastic. There were a couple of muddy spots about 1 foot long at the end when i got back on teh beginner trail, but otherwise totally dry and a great ride for my first time on this trail! My buddy couldnt' agree more, we'll be back for sure. :jumpy:

[bigwheel]

Going at 5 PM tonight with Chris D and possibly Shad H.

Reasonable chance that I'll be there at 5. However, I'm back on the single speed and will have a beer in my belly (retirement party of a friend). So, I'll be going extra slow today.

[gopherhockey]

Yup, its open and its damp but its good to go...

Lots of skid marks out there tho... <sigh> Watch your speed, there are some slick corners even on the downhills.

[trompete]

Reasonable chance that I'll be there at 5. However, I'm back on the single speed and will have a beer in my belly (retirement party of a friend). So, I'll be going extra slow today.

Trails were great. A few soft spots but otherwise spectacular.

Thanks for the ride. Nice meeting you, Bob.

[CadexCFM]

Not sure if the sprinklers went off or if Dave Dahl's 30% accurate weather reading was right, but I had some water marks on my car this morning and wanted to know if the trail would be dry enough to ride?

-Long time forum viewer(trail update is my homepage), first time posting.

[gopherhockey]

Not sure if the sprinklers went off or if Dave Dahl's 30% accurate weather reading was right, but I had some water marks on my car this morning and wanted to know if the trail would be dry enough to ride?

-Long time forum viewer(trail update is my homepage), first time posting.

Good first post. Yup, the trail should be good to go. I don't expect any rain to affect us this weekend. If something changes I will post up, otherwise assume everything is good.

Thanks for asking!

[trompete]

FYI: Spectacular riding this morning.

[bikeoutback]

The parking lot was full when I rode on Sunday afternoon, however I entered on Galaxie side for once, plenty of available parking over there ;) Trail was in great shape, except was it just me or was there alot of skid marks out there? I'm just glad I got out this weekend and rode since I'll be in Canada next weekend = no riding. :cryin:

[gopherhockey]

I think its time to come up with some clever signs regarding skidding and place them out on the trail.

Nothing that would pi$$ people off... but something that says it all.

"The more skill you have the less you skid..."

"Save our trails = don't skid."

or something like that.

[Paul Swenson]

I think its time to come up with some clever signs regarding skidding and place them out on the trail.

Nothing that would pi$$ people off... but something that says it all.

"The more skill you have the less you skid..."

"Save our trails = don't skid."

or something like that.

Keep the skids in your shorts and off our trails.

Let me know if I need to edit my post.

[stoneage]

I think its time to come up with some clever signs regarding skidding and place them out on the trail.

Nothing that would pi$$ people off... but something that says it all.

"The more skill you have the less you skid..."

"Save our trails = don't skid."

or something like that.
I think it's all about education. I found three guys skidding the corners at Theo last week. I went backwards till I ran into them and explained how many hours went into the building of the facility. They were receptive to my edu-rant, and one of them shook my hand and said he would be out to help. A cool catch phrase would be helpful. I think Wheels or Chris came up with, 'Skidding is not a skill.'

[FSSS]

Explain why...

Skidding damages the trail.
Damaged trails get closed.

[ibismojo2001]

Agreed. Lot's of skid marks yesterday.

Need all front and no rear!

A poignant sign with the end result is definitely needed.

[dogsdirtbike24]

Anyone know if it has rained out there? We were thinking about going out this afternoon.

[Metamere]

Hey all. I too was really hoping to get out to Lebanon Hills for some mountain biking today (on my day off; last week it was raining during my days off). When I woke up to the sound of rain this morning, I was a bit bummed out. I live about 25 miles from Leb, so it is a longer trip for me and I wouldn't want to drive out there only to find that it's too wet to ride. Did the rain hit there too this morning? Will it be dry by this afternoon? If anyone could keep me up to date on the conditions there I would greatly appreciate it. Oh, and I promise not to make skidmarks while there, not even in my shorts.

[LightWeight]

No rain yet and I'm about 5 miles from Leb.

[Metamere]

Cool, thanks.

[crux]

No rain yet and I'm about 5 miles from Leb.

Doh!

it rained.

(Hopefully it will be decent enough for trail work tomorrow if it is still wet)

[El-Rock]

any word yet on today? Is Leb Open?

[bigwheel]

any word yet on today? Is Leb Open?

We got a *lot* of rain yesterday afternoon and last night. I'm guessing about an inch and a half. Please give it another day or so to ride it.

We will be doing trail work tonight (and will see any poachers). When we get back, we'll post the condition.

If you'd like to join us, we will meet at 6pm, and be opening up another section of singletrack.

[El-Rock]

thank I think I might help at wirth tonight.

[bigwheel]

thank I think I might help at wirth tonight.

Great! They can also use the help. However, check their schedule. I think they work on Wednesday nights.

[El-Rock]

oh that's right damn I thought it was wednesday

[trompete]

How are the trails today?

[elesquiador]

Pretty good, I thought. Damp, but not muddy. One small puddle on the X loop, as well as a pretty big tree down that I had to get off my bike for.

[bigwheel]

Pretty good, I thought. Damp, but not muddy. One small puddle on the X loop, as well as a pretty big tree down that I had to get off my bike for.

Where is the tree?

[steef]

oh that's right damn I thought it was wednesday

Is jitterjeppitis running rampant? ;)

[viv]

Anyone know about the conditions today...I'm hopeing to bust out early and do 3 or hopefully 4 laps startin around 3:30ish.

[tedsti]

It is in the X loop Lowlands about 2/3 of the way from the entrance to the bridge. It comes up on you quick, so watch out. About 10" diameter and chainsaw material.

The trail was good last night. As long as we don't get any more rain, it should be nice and fast today.

Where is the tree?

[bigwheel]

The down trees are gone.

Leb is in good shape, with only a couple tiny puddles. Get in your ride before the next set of storms show up.

[trompete]

Got in a ride tonight. Ground was a little hard. Ride before it rains!

[gopherhockey]

Rain is coming down... cancel your Friday Lebanon riding plans.

[Sevadari]

Rain is coming down... cancel your Friday Lebanon riding plans.

I knew it was tempting fate to expect no rain for 3 days in a row when menacing-looking clouds were looming overhead the whole time!!! :mad:

If I could just figure out how to re-arrange everything else in my life to line up with my riding schedule...!

I guess the only consolation is that next week's looking like a real sunny and dry one...come on Sun gods:jumpy:!!!

[gopherhockey]

I hope it is obvious to everyone that the trail is too wet to ride this weekend. As of 8pm here near Leb it has continued to rain with little or no sun.

Sorry to cancel your weekend fun... but even if the sun comes out Sunday we should leave it be for a day.

:cryin:

[gopherhockey]

Whoa... the suns showing itself, better hit the trails... Not.

Again, please give the trail some time to dry out. 12-24 hours of Sun is a good start.

You never know when trailworkers are going to be out watching the trails as well..

[gopherhockey]

The orange fences are up even though the parking lot is open. Please respect the trail closure.

I would think Tuesday would be ok to ride if we don't get rain today. The trail was really soggy and standing water in many spots. We have some de-berming work to do because the trail is cupping and starting to hold too much water where it shouldn't. This will be addressed this year and should help the trail rebound much quicker.

The trail itself is pretty solid and could be opened up sooner, but these small water spots are creating problems because riders try to go around them... then the trail starts to widen. If they go through its better, but then we have deeper spots and have to fix them. Its kind of a no-win, so keeping it closed is best.

I can imagine the expert loop is probably standing water in many places still.

I would not plan to ride today (Monday).

[gopherhockey]

We ot another dose of rain around 5pm today... just what we didn't need.

Looks like *maybe* Tuesday evening...? We'll see.

Maybe you'd rather come out and help us do trailwork instead?!?!?! ;)

[TrailDale]

Lebanon Hills is closed today.
I hiked around the park and checked out the bike trails.
Because of of the outside berms formed on most of the trails, the singletrack is still holding a lot of water, with puddles sitting in the middle of the trail in many places. Most of the singletrack is now 4 to 5 years old and has had very heavy use. It really really needs de-berming.

My recommendation is to delay the finishing of he new trail sections until the rest of the trail is de-bermed.

[chiquito]

When do you think that we can ride again? This coming weekend maybe?

[bigwheel]

Lebanon Hills is closed today.
I hiked around the park and checked out the bike trails.
Because of of the outside berms formed on most of the trails, the singletrack is still holding a lot of water, with puddles sitting in the middle of the trail in many places. Most of the singletrack is now 4 to 5 years old and has had very heavy use. It really really needs de-berming.

My recommendation is to delay the finishing of he new trail sections until the rest of the trail is de-bermed.

Dale, We de-bermed at least 3 times last year, and once already this year. Since we cannot keep poachers out, and have to open trails early to avoid being lynched, we get stuck with berms on what seems like every corner.

That said, I sort-of agree. Maybe we should take the opportunity to de-berm and de-branch while the trail is still wet. I'm anxious to get the new reroutes open, but not at the expense of the existing trail. Depending on the number of volunteers and the size of their backs vs brains, maybe we can split up the Tuesday night group between rock haulers and de-bermers.

[bigwheel]

When do you think that we can ride again? This coming weekend maybe?

Hi Gabe,

It's hard to say. The weather guage seems to be stuck on "sucks". If we can get a day or two of sunny breezy weather, we can probably open it back up.

For now, we'll have to get our exercise by doing trail work. ;)

[gopherhockey]

Recent conversation and Dale's comments really drive the whole issue home that our trails are not maintenance-free. There are people who work very hard to build them.. thats the most obvious.

Then there are those that work to help keep them open and in good shape. We can do our best to build them so that maintenance is kept to a minimum - but a trail like Lebanon gets about 30 years of use in just a few years based on the number of rider laps. We are now doing maintenance that many trail don't need to have done so soon.

Add to that the number of people who ride the trail when conditions are poor... it just takes a few laps of these types to create a huge amount of cleanup.

So what suffers usually? New trails, new obstacles... and that hurts us all because I know we all love to see the new stuff.

On a week where the theme is to stay off closed trails i don't mean to blame it all on poachers, but it all adds up. Now we're all going to have to wait a few more weeks for the new trails to open up.

... and to this point we REALLY COULD USE YOUR HELP! Come out and get a great workout with us. If we can't ride, why not work on the trails a bit so that next time around we can ride that much earlier.

I hope to see as many people that can make it out tomorrow night...

[AC/BC]

How are the conditions today? I was thinking about venturing out later on this afternoon around 7ish although I dont want to be disappointed if its too wet to ride still. Yesterday the conditions were too wet to ride. Any idea if it's dried up a bit?

[bikeoutback]

How are the conditions today? I was thinking about venturing out later on this afternoon around 7ish although I dont want to be disappointed if its too wet to ride still. Yesterday the conditions were too wet to ride. Any idea if it's dried up a bit?

Last I read they probably weren't thinking about opening till wednesday. Also I live close to Leb and it rained last night around 9pm again, not sure how much came down then but I'd be trial needs at least today unfortunatly... however I bet trailwork is going on tonight ;)

[LightWeight]

Judging by the conditions of the "singletrack" I rode on my commute this morning (the Dodd Rd connecting trail in Eagan), I'd have to say 'no' to riding Leb today. Lots of standing water and very greasy mud. If the rain holds off today, I'll bet conditions will be good tomorrow.

[AC/BC]

Yeah, I figured it would still be wet with all the rain that we've gotten.

[crux]

Just walked Leb and would hold off riding the trail till at least late tomorrow afternoon if the weather holds. Lots of standing water and berms forming not allowing the trail to dry. If we had a decent turn out for trail work we could fix several of the problem spots and get to ride a bit sooner after the next soaking.

[gopherhockey]

Just walked Leb and would hold off riding the trail till at least late tomorrow afternoon if the weather holds. Lots of standing water and berms forming not allowing the trail to dry. If we had a decent turn out for trail work we could fix several of the problem spots and get to ride a bit sooner after the next soaking.

Thanks for checking the trail!

Yup, totally correct - we're going to fix things tonight and get us all riding again hopefully by Wed. afternoon....

Its going to be a fun trailwork night.

[bigwheel]

Pssst. Rumor has it that Leb will be opened around noon today.

There were still muddy spots last night, but between the 17-person repair crew last night ( thanks everyone :banana: ), and the sun and breeze today, it should be rideable by this afternoon.

[trompete]

Planning on being out around 5 today. woot

[bigwheel]

Leb is now open. The outer loop is tacky and decent shape, but the X,XX is still damp. Hopefully, it will dry out by later this afternoon.

If you come up on a damp spot, ride through it, rather than around it. But, when you see a tire-width rut forming, try to ride on the edge of the rut to fill it in, rather than make it deeper.

Enjoy.

[gopherhockey]

As Bob says, Leb is now open. Dakota County called me this morning and we agreed to open things up.

I want to thank everyone who stayed off the trails during the last few days. Your patience is appreciated.

... and don't forget to keep checking here and the trail condition page for up-to-date information. Because it is open today doesn't mean it won't be closed again later. Please save yourselves a trip and check the site first.

Also, please don't forget to police yourselves... if it rains and the trail is wet but we haven't closed it off, it is important to still stay off the trail. We don't want to have to micro-manage each and every rain we have.

Rule of thumb, give it 24-48 hours of sunny weather after any significant storm or long periods of short rains as we had this time around. Assume the worst and check here for more accurate info.

Thanks..

[trompete]

Just finished two laps of Intermediate/X. Excellent conditions except for a couple soft spots at the end of the X. Get out and ride.

[trompete]

Just finished an Intermediate, X, XX loop. Everything's great. Go ride.

[gopherhockey]

I don't even want to say this... its starting to rain again.

Lets hope that it doesn't rain much and that we can just keep on riding. All the same, please watch the weather in case we get anything significant.

[gopherhockey]

Doesn't look like we got much rain last night, so the trail should be ok.

[nigel]

Trail is in great shape today! Just got done throwin down some laps and had a good time!

[crux]

Trail is really tacky and fast today. Weather guy said the R word and if your going to hit the trail do so before the showers.

Also as a side note several weeds have popped up directly infront of some large rocks just waiting for a pedal strike.

[2BOutside]

was dry and in really great shape this afternoon. Beautiful!

Thx to all the trailwork crew out there tonight.

[gopherhockey]

Conditions are great. Get out there!

We opened up a new section of trail tonight. You will notice it at the very end of the X loop and also if you take the Intermediate bypass (i.e. you don't ride the X loop out). They come together, then follow around the pond and end up hitting the Dream trail a little farther down the trail.

PLEASE do not go crazy on the new jump and logpile. These are expert stunts off to the side of the trail. Check them out first before you ride them - don't assume anything. Ride safe so we can keep Lebanon away from the injuries and lawyers.

PLEASE BE CAREFUL ON THE NEW OBSTACLES!

The signs are also not very clear right now as they are missing some arrows, but I will fix that tomorrow.

Enjoy.. the trail crew tonight did an excellent job!!!

[bigwheel]

Like John said, Get out there! (before it rains)

Please note: The new section is very new and very fragile. Please stay off of the trail if it is raining or wet. If you happen to get stuck out there when the rain starts, it will be best to just walk your bike the couple of feet to the Dream and skip the new section for now.

Also, be EXTRA CAREFUL on the new jump and the log pile. They are both rideable and fun, but they are not in their final form. The log pile exit dirt is still soft, so there is a reasonable chance you will go OTB. Also, there is a tree not very far after the log pile, so you will have to pay attention while you are exiting the pile. We are planning to fix this up soon. Both obstacles have ride-arounds.

Thanks, everyone. This will be a nice addition to Leb, with a lot more to come. If you'd like to help create trail and add features, we meet every Tuesday night at 6pm in the main lot.

Enjoy.

[gopherhockey]

It was raining pretty good as we left the trail tonight. Spots were definitely getting wet. We didn't close the trail, but hope people will use their judgement as we possibly get more rain.

The strange thing was the west side was more wet than the east, so it looks dry when you start out but it turns ugly as you get farther to the Galaxie side.

[bigwheel]

The strange thing was the west side was more wet than the east, so it looks dry when you start out but it turns ugly as you get farther to the Galaxie side.

We got zero rain on the north side of Eagan, only a few miles away.

Hopefully, it will be rideable again by mid-day tomorrow (*IF* it doesn't rain any more)

John and Kyle, thanks for letting me ride with you. Maura, Mike and (forgot your name). Good seeing you.

[crux]

Had quite a bit of rain just south west of Leb. last night (approx. 3 miles out) Don't know how much the trail saw but would be good to know if it will be open today.

[manual63]

If anyone can get me a trail status before 4 today, that would be greatly appreciated. I need to know if I can still have the Skill Session tonight at 6:30.

Thank you!!

[manual63]

I just checked Leb on foot. The beginner loop was totally dry. The Intermediate entrance was also very dry. I am not sure about further in the trail, but I am sure most of the trail is in good shape. I have not seen the new section, but new trail will take longer to dry since it is not packed in yet. So if you ride Leb, make sure you do not ride wet spots. If your tires leave an imprint in any of the areas, that area is too wet to ride. Please tread lightly and don't ride around wet spots, making the trail wider.

[trompete]

Thanks shad. I won't tell on you for playing hookie ;)

[manual63]

Thanks shad. I won't tell on you for playing hookie ;)

It took me 20 minutes......I didn't take a lunch break today.....:p

[trompete]

Rode two laps around tonight. The new bottom bypass that we opened up last night had deep ruts in it cause it was so wet. We should consider working on that next week and taking a trimmer on the X loop.

[tedsti]

It was already boarderline in the new section and it just poured rain. I would stay off until Saturday.

[gopherhockey]

Its absolutely pouring rain down by Leb right now. Cancel your early Friday riding plans... lets hope it can rebound by Friday night but I don't know...

[bikeoutback]

Hopefully it dries up today so can ride this weekend, would be nice to get alot of people out to pack down that new section, that sections was very borderline when we went through around 8pm I'd guess and skills session just made it out before the rain. It really started to come down while I was in the parking lot though.

[nowbrdr123]

Anyone know if riding tonight would be possible?

[gopherhockey]

Anyone know if riding tonight would be possible?

I'd wait until the last possible minute tonight, or go tomorrow. I haven't seen the trail but can imagine that at the very least the brand new section is really bad as it was kind of wet to begin with.

I'm going out there tonight to walk around a bit and will post conditions later.

[stoneage]

I'd wait until the last possible minute tonight, or go tomorrow. I haven't seen the trail but can imagine that at the very least the brand new section is really bad as it was kind of wet to begin with.

I'm going out there tonight to walk around a bit and will post conditions later.
I rode the whole trail at 3 and there were some greasy patches. No trail damage unless of course you were laying it out on the corners. The new section is very soft, but it looks like it was getting quite a bit of activity. I rode the outside of the tread slowly, trying to avoid any cupping. I can't believe how overgrown the trail is. Yanked about a pound of morels out of the woods. There was a patch right next to the trail about half way up to the, ooops, never mind.;)

[soupboy]

I was leaving as Bill arrived. The new section was very greasy...I didn't even know it was there! Greasy dirt plus rocks and logs makes for an interesting ride.

Totally agree on the overgrown comment. Parts of the trail reminded me of the fern section at Battle Creek. Lots of face smacking branches, if I only had my pruning shears...

The log-under at the XX exit continues to get lower. How about knocking it down for another big log-up????

Big thanks to the Leb trail crew for continuing to improve what's already the best trail in the TC (to me).:D

I rode the whole trail at 3 and there were some greasy patches. No trail damage unless of course you were laying it out on the corners. The new section is very soft, but it looks like it was getting quite a bit of activity. I rode the outside of the tread slowly, trying to avoid any cupping. I can't believe how overgrown the trail is. Yanked about a pound of morels out of the woods. There was a patch right next to the trail about half way up to the, ooops, never mind.;)

[gopherhockey]

Trail is dry now. New section is tacky but firming up nicely.

Watch for face slappers... trail needs trimming.

[CookieMonster]

wooohooo!! I'll be riding there later today for sure now :)

~Maura

[trompete]

Forecast tomorrow is for rain, so ride early in the day if you're planning on riding.

[soupboy]

Trail was great this AM. New section firming up nicely.

'Twas hot, hot, hotter than hell, burn you like the midday sun.:redface2:

[gopherhockey]

Date: 6-1-06
Time: 12:18PM

We had only .06" of rain this morning, so the trail should be good to go by late afternoon. I am guessing the newly opened trail sections will be somewhat tacky.

[gopherhockey]

There is a rumor going around that the new log mountain obstacle may have been modified (made taller instead of longer)

Please beware just in case! If anyone can confirm this please let us know.

We will have to either find a way to fix the logs into place or completely remove the pile if people can't leave it alone. This would be the second instance of obstacle modification in a week if it indeed has been touched.

As always, if ANYONE sees someone making modifications to the trail and they are not wearing an orange dirt boss shirt (or part of the Tuesday trailwork crew) please tell them to stop and notify us immediately. Thanks!

[Hathor]

Conditions are great. Just a couple tiny puddles in the usual places like the backsides of all the logs in the X loop.

Speaking of logs...uh, er - I think I am going to have to see someone ride that new one before I attempt it. You guys are insane. Once to the top and the ride down, I can see it being okay...I am just worried about getting up there.

[bigwheel]

Liz, I thought you were going to ride with us at 6:30.

[Hathor]

So I have never been mountain biking in Colorado until this week. Other than not being prepared for the lack of oxygen and constant climbing, I have I am amazed at how well-prepared I was. This is totally because of Lebanon. I was riding along and there would be a huge drop or something and I would just think, "this is just like Jan's rock." It is really rocky, there, too, but I was pretty comfortable with that because of the rock gardens at Leb. There are also a ton of uphill water bars, and in my head I was thanking John for the same thing that I have been cursing him out about since he put them in. It was pretty interesting; so even though Lebanon's obstacles are man-made, they are total simulations of all the things I was finding out there in nature. Pretty cool.

[Hathor]

Liz, I thought you were going to ride with us at 6:30.

Couldn't wait. It is just too nice out.

[ColoradoChris]

Did a couple laps around noon. Trail was pretty dry except in a couple patches of water. Still have on some crappy tires but never had a problem with grip. Not bad, not bad.

The log pile doesn't seem to changed (at least from the last couple weeks). Went over it a couple times with no problem.

Like the new section of trail that opened up leading to the drop and log pile.

Where in Colorado did you ride? I live in Colorado Springs (Mesaba pilot based here). Colorado basically is alot of loose rock (scree), rock gardens galore, and technical. Unless you go to the ski resorts there is not alot of man-made structures (hopefully this will change). It's kinda why I like Lebonon. Nice change of pace.

Chris

[gopherhockey]

We found the rock that soupboy was complaining about had been dug up and thrown off the trail (xx loop) this evening, so I spent part of my ride bringing the rock back up and we dug it back in.

Next time that rock gets moved I know of a bigger one I'm going to anchor in so solid it will never move, but it will be even more difficult... so I hope people will leave the trail alone now.

But.. the good news is the log pile was NOT modified!! :banana: :banana: False alarm... We are still going to try find a way to pin those logs in place though just in case.

Was a fun ride tonight. Buck showed up right at the end of the ride with Red Bull... :crazy: :D

Oh.. and nice new ride Bob!

[Hathor]

I forget the name of the place...it was in the foothills by Morrison. I am staying in Littleton; do you have any favorite trails around there?

No way, you are a Mesaba pilot? I don't think I know you, but I was for 8 years. I just got on with Frontier, so that is why I am out there...in training right now. You'll have to let me know what is up with Mesaba.


Where in Colorado did you ride? I live in Colorado Springs (Mesaba pilot based here). Colorado basically is alot of loose rock (scree), rock gardens galore, and technical. Unless you go to the ski resorts there is not alot of man-made structures (hopefully this will change). It's kinda why I like Lebonon. Nice change of pace.

Chris

[ColoradoChris]

:):) Hi Liz

Small world, Just sent you a PM.

[LightWeight]

Some rain south of McAndrews this morning. Almost completely dry as I headed north into Eagan along Pilot Knob. I'll bet the trail will be good to ride this afternoon unless someone else has info to contradict me.

[gopherhockey]

Some rain south of McAndrews this morning. Almost completely dry as I headed north into Eagan along Pilot Knob. I'll bet the trail will be good to ride this afternoon unless someone else has info to contradict me.

I would agree. I think the rain was not significant to the trail from what I could tell... and I also noticed there was less as you head north.

[crux]

No rain here 2 miles west of leb. will scope it out hopefully we have a dry trail.

[FormerFarmKing]

The trail had ultimate traction last night and will be great again today. I love the new exit and look forward to the top section opening. Fun jumps and log pile! Thanks for your hard work.

[Buck]

Leb is fast today, finally rode all of the new section in on go....oh my, big possibility for a dope little hip jump after the log pile...mmmm it was good.

Don't know how many people here know him but I also got to meet Jeff Hall out on the trail. Super cool kat! He told me he is racing the nats this year and trying to get on the 08 olympic team, so if ya see him on the trail give him a shout of support!!! Midwest Representin'!!!! werd ya hear? :cool: :laugh:

L8Rz
Buck

[JBergland]

Jeff has been rock'in the local scene for a while now!!

http://www.jeffhallmountainbiking.com/

JB

[crux]

Trail is riding fast, and thanks to Bucks help clearing a mental block section now, also found a really cool way to avoid the drive to the trail from home.

[LightWeight]

7:00am - perfection. Saw a turkey and almost ran into a frisbee-sized turtle.

[gopherhockey]

Ted, Troy and I finished up the new Intermediate Bypass trail this morning and opened it up. There is still some finishing work to do on the trail, but its now available to ride.

For those that don't know what this trail is, bascally it is the alternative to taking the Expert loop and will be the quickest way back to the parking lot from the gathering area at the entrance to the X loop.

It winds around a bit before hooking up with the people coming off the expert loop and then connects to the dream trail. Its to avoid having to ride the ski trail out, so we've basically bypassed the bypass and made it singletrack. This is to avoid sharing the ski trails, especially for winter riding. You will see an orange fence up over the ski trail that people used to ride out.

Its a fun new section. There are some small rock garden type areas, a rock jump, and then of course you hook up to the new log mountain area. I suggest even expert level riders try it out - it will be a nice alternative exit.

Enjoy!

[gopherhockey]

Here is a link to the latest map of Lebanon. This is from Ryan Anderson - I hand-drew the new Intermediate Bypass area for now....

http://www.morcmtb.org/photopost/showphoto.php?photo=2309&size=big&cat=513&limit=recent

[soupboy]

Very cool. Will be riding Sunday AM. How do we get tracks in these funny yellow areas?

[crux]

By showing up for trail work, :D and it would not hurt to have land manager approval.

Sorry the smart arse in me is a bit overactive this morning

Very cool. Will be riding Sunday AM. How do we get tracks in these funny yellow areas?

[gopherhockey]

Very cool. Will be riding Sunday AM. How do we get tracks in these funny yellow areas?

Find ways to eliminate the hikers ;)

Its funny.. when I uploaded that map yesterday I was looking at it and thinking the same thing.

[trompete]

FYI: We're supposed to get rain overnight tonight and tomorrow. Ride today!

[crux]

Recently have taken up trail running and really enjoyed leb for both but after a few times of trail running there and running across several teens playing in the weeds (both pot and other) figured that I could do with out that. Now I'm not saying that I have not ran across some really cool people while trail running, but the majority I could do with out. Even some of the long term locals have turned me on to TO for trail running and is a much better area for that IMHO.

Not attempting to start a flame war over this, but it would seem to me that Dakota county would actually find that the MTB population takes better care of the area in building and maintaining the trails that the some other usage groups.

If we were allowed to populate the enitre area (funny yellow sections included) think that John would have to start running two trail crews per week.

Find ways to eliminate the hikers ;)

Its funny.. when I uploaded that map yesterday I was looking at it and thinking the same thing.

[gopherhockey]

Trail was nice and dry today. New section is a little bumpy, so ride it and help flatten it out...

[dave t]

Its a fun new section. There are some small rock garden type areas, a rock jump, and then of course you hook up to the new log mountain area.I suggest even expert level riders try it out - it will be a nice alternative exit.

Enjoy! I totally agree!

Right now it is nice new grippy dirt with a developing line. Once it is packed and starts to roll faster it will be :banana: :banana: :banana: . I haven't decided if it is just the fresh cut or the layout, but it definately has a different feel than the X/out and the dream section after the junction.

I haven't ridden the expert/out section even since the first 2/3 has been open and the final 1/3 makes it even better. After a few more rides the newness will wear off and I will hit x/out sometimes but it looks like that will be the less frequent choice.

[crux]

Has the new section changed your lap around leb? Figure this new section will help break up the trail a bit by having an optional route. although still rode it four times today (doing my part in smoothing it out)

[gopherhockey]

Got some pretty good rain just south of Lebanon last night. I'd stay off the trail until late afternoon at the earliest.

Better yet - skip your ride today and come out for trailwork at 6pm! ;)

[crux]

After seeing the trails this morning would stay off the new sections till late this afternoon early evening. older sections could open up as early as noon if the sun and wind holds.

[gopherhockey]

Leb dried up nicely yesterday... its in great shape.

We started trimming the weeds that are getting crazy out there.. hopefully we will complete this process in the next week or so.

[dopey048]

Primo conditions. Hope that the weather stays good, unfortunately it doesn't look like it will though. Came up on a meeting of the Dirt Bosses, almost crashed into a log on the side. I didn't expect John, Ted and Bob to be right there.

I need some tips on getting over that log mountain, I can get up about 2/3rds and then no more momentum. I fall, I curse the people that built this thing, then I remember wailing on the base with an axe for an hour. :)

Oh and green leaves on trail, makes for slick corners.

[gopherhockey]

Yup, conditions are good out there. Even getting dusty again in spots.

I was out trimming the trail on the Galaxie side last night. Sorry if I got in anyone's way. The hedge trimmer did a pretty good job - I got almost all the way to the bypass on 2 batteries.

[CadexCFM]

Did the course get a shower last night? Post up if anyone is going out there or been out there today already. Hoping to get a ride in about 5pm. what are the chances I'll be going for a run instead?

[bigwheel]

Did the course get a shower last night? Post up if anyone is going out there or been out there today already. Hoping to get a ride in about 5pm. what are the chances I'll be going for a run instead?

I don't think we got any significant rain. It has been threatening all morning, but not has happened yet.

My guess is that the trail is fine to ride. If I'm wrong, someone please post an update.

[bigwheel]

1:30pm It's raining in Eagan now. Not hard, though.

It's probably not bad enough to mess up the weekend, but it could put a crimp on this afternoon/evening. Use your best judgement.

[CadexCFM]

I'm going there at about 4:30 or so to check the conditions. If I post up by 6 it isn't rideable, if I don't post I'll see you there.

[Heuy]

I need some tips on getting over that log mountain, I can get up about 2/3rds and then no more momentum.

Large log piles, you've got to at least unweight the front wheel into them, or maybe even hop the front up. This will conserve momentum so you don't have to choose between ramming speed and stalling.

But anyhow, this should probably be in the riding tips area, sorry to hijack the lthread, back to trail conditions.

[gopherhockey]

Trail appeared bone dry this evening.

I trimmed most of the bypass climb tonight, so its pretty much cleared from Galaxie to the turn on the bypass. Looks like a lot, but in reality is a very small portion of the trail.

The battery powered hedge trimmer worked ok tonight, but not as well as the other day. The batteries were running out after only 10-15 minutes of running and the unit smelled like it was heating up.

I think I'm pushing that thing past its normal lifetime limit of use already... but we'll see, it still cuts nice when it has a fresh battery. If it lasted longer and didn't run out so fast I would have had a lot more done.

[samuelptoney]

John,
Have you been cycling the batteries?

[KleinCrazy]

Trail appeared bone dry this evening.

I trimmed most of the bypass climb tonight, so its pretty much cleared from Galaxie to the turn on the bypass. Looks like a lot, but in reality is a very small portion of the trail.

The battery powered hedge trimmer worked ok tonight, but not as well as the other day. The batteries were running out after only 10-15 minutes of running and the unit smelled like it was heating up.

I think I'm pushing that thing past its normal lifetime limit of use already... but we'll see, it still cuts nice when it has a fresh battery. If it lasted longer and didn't run out so fast I would have had a lot more done.


John,

Talk to Bob and see if you can build your own battery pack for it.

Should be doable and have much longer battery life.

I was able to build a battery for the GPS unit that will last 3 days instead of 11 hours.

just a thought.

James

[Danimal]

I want to ride this afternoon and was wondering if she is dry.

[Don Youngdahl]

................The battery powered hedge trimmer worked ok tonight, but not as well as the other day. The batteries were running out after only 10-15 minutes of running and the unit smelled like it was heating up..................

Why not a good gas powered trimmer? Seems like a logical investment for MORC. I'd recommend Stihl. Pricey, but will hold up to heavy use.

Don Youngdahl

[transplant]

I want to ride this afternoon and was wondering if she is dry.

It is FAAAAAABULOOOOUUUUSSS! Two snaps with a twist.

[Tim Wegner]

Why not a good gas powered trimmer? Seems like a logical investment for MORC. I'd recommend Stihl. Pricey, but will hold up to heavy use.

Don Youngdahl
MORC owns a stihl trimmer. Don't know where it is though, must be in one of the tool trailers.
Tim

[ColoradoChris]

It was a beauty! Did a couple laps and even thought about taking a third. It was a draw between me and the log pile, me 1 and logpile 1 (stalled at the top).

Did the course change? I couldn't find that new part of the trail that I rode a couple weeks ago.

Chris

[gopherhockey]

It was a beauty! Did a couple laps and even thought about taking a third. It was a draw between me and the log pile, me 1 and logpile 1 (stalled at the top).

Did the course change? I couldn't find that new part of the trail that I rode a couple weeks ago.

Chris

We added on to the new trail so that it actually starts up by the entrace to the X loop (where there is now orange fence across the old ski trail)

[gopherhockey]

We had a little rain last night but I don't think its too wet to ride.

I will be out doing more weed trimming today - probably the top of the bypass and into the XX loop if the batteries allow. I apologize up front for the interruption in your Sunday ride but hope everyone enjoys being able to see the trail again ;)

[Sevadari]

We had a little rain last night but I don't think its too wet to ride.

I will be out doing more weed trimming today - probably the top of the bypass and into the XX loop if the batteries allow. I apologize up front for the interruption in your Sunday ride but hope everyone enjoys being able to see the trail again ;)
John, on our epic Tour de Trails ride yesterday we came across all the work you've done in Leb in the last few days and it really helped quite a bit.

Thanks so much for all the hard work you and others do to keep the trails in tip top shape! If all we've got to "put up with" is once in awhile interruptions of our rides, well....it's well worth it. Even better, hopefully we can get out and help ya from time to time. ;)

Three bananas for John :banana::banana::banana: !!!

[gopherhockey]

Hey, thanks for the nice comment. Very much appreciated!

[gopherhockey]

Trail is mostly dry today with some damp spots. Nothing stopping people from having a great ride today as long as the rain holds off.

I was able to trim the rest of the bypass trail on down to where the X loop starts... then ran out of battery.

I also shifted a few rocks around on the upper bypass to try keep the trail pinned in better. It may disrupt the faster line, but if we don't keep things in check the trail will just keep creeping out. Riders should try use quick handling skills in that area vs. fast sweeping turns. The rocks should be visible from a long way away, but may surprise people not expecting them.

I had to close off an easy line in the upper most part of the bypass trail (the rocky area). People were going to the right between a big rock and a tree. This was going to damage the tree, and already took out 2-3 other trees. Even though its Intermediate we can't let the trail wander in that direction. I have some plans in that area to make a line that has less rocks (for the more intermediate rider) but a better view... as it is that area is more expert than intermediate with no clear ride-around.

I think I know the problem with the trimmer as well. I need to use some WD40 on the trimmer to keep it lubed up. It starts to rub against itself when it gets hot and I think the friction is running the batteries down quickly. The first few batteris on a freshly lubed trimmer lasted a long time. The longer I cut, the shorter the battery life.

Batteries are on the charger and I hope to possibly get another round of trimming in this evening. Most likely I will start in the XX because I think some of the rocks and obstacles are covered up by the weeds.

Oh.. and as I trim I am amazed at all the cool stuff that is uncovered. Rocks and trees that we normally don't notice start to show up again. I think Lebanon is more interesting when you can see some of these trail features.

[SPR]

Trail is mostly dry today with some damp spots. Nothing stopping people from having a great ride today as long as the rain holds off.

I was able to trim the rest of the bypass trail on down to where the X loop starts... then ran out of battery.

I also shifted a few rocks around on the upper bypass to try keep the trail pinned in better. It may disrupt the faster line, but if we don't keep things in check the trail will just keep creeping out. Riders should try use quick handling skills in that area vs. fast sweeping turns. The rocks should be visible from a long way away, but may surprise people not expecting them.

I had to close off an easy line in the upper most part of the bypass trail (the rocky area). People were going to the right between a big rock and a tree. This was going to damage the tree, and already took out 2-3 other trees. Even though its Intermediate we can't let the trail wander in that direction. I have some plans in that area to make a line that has less rocks (for the more intermediate rider) but a better view... as it is that area is more expert than intermediate with no clear ride-around.

I think I know the problem with the trimmer as well. I need to use some WD40 on the trimmer to keep it lubed up. It starts to rub against itself when it gets hot and I think the friction is running the batteries down quickly. The first few batteris on a freshly lubed trimmer lasted a long time. The longer I cut, the shorter the battery life.

Batteries are on the charger and I hope to possibly get another round of trimming in this evening. Most likely I will start in the XX because I think some of the rocks and obstacles are covered up by the weeds.

Oh.. and as I trim I am amazed at all the cool stuff that is uncovered. Rocks and trees that we normally don't notice start to show up again. I think Lebanon is more interesting when you can see some of these trail features.

So John did you even go home last evening or did you go right to Leb and start trimming...jk :crazy:

[Danimal]

It is FAAAAAABULOOOOUUUUSSS! Two snaps with a twist.

Thanks Tom! Picturing the gesture:)

[trompete]

EDIT: I went and rode. Trail was fast and dry. woot.

[gopherhockey]

Did another session of trimming this evening. I got from the top of the catwalk climb in the XX to Jan's rock.

Noticed a lot of people still riding around the camelback area to re-ride the obstacle. Tried to litter the area with a bunch more stuff in hopes people stop doing that. We'll have to get a ton more debris into that area to finally stop em'... and maybe a sign telling people to walk their bikes back if they want to try it again.

[gopherhockey]

I have now completed almost the entire XX loop. The only part not trimmed is the intial section until you get to the messy log pile.

Lost my dang glasses out there tho while trimming... that was an expensive mistake. :cryin: :hit:

[biking_stickman]

Noticed a lot of people still riding around the camelback area to re-ride the obstacle. Tried to litter the area with a bunch more stuff in hopes people stop doing that. We'll have to get a ton more debris into that area to finally stop em'... and maybe a sign telling people to walk their bikes back if they want to try it again.

Can some short "re-ride" loops be added near some of the more technical features? If these are appearing unofficially, should this be discouraged or should practice and repetition be encouraged? When I'm having trouble with a feature, I often walk back on the trail to try areas again (ex. the big rock, Ted's log, the XX log ride) but need to get out of the way to avoid oncoming bikers. These loops could be used as a two-way (re-ride/bypass) trail or a one-way (re-ride) loop depending on how the entrance/exit meet with the existing trail.

[gopherhockey]

Can some short "re-ride" loops be added near some of the more technical features?

About the only one this would work on might be the camelback... we could create a loop back further down the trail with enough visibility to oncoming traffic not to create a problem.

Most other obstacles have no way to properly re-ride other than to just do another loop.

Getting off the bike and walking back is the best bet... but there are some areas that this can cause problems too, like the double jump where people are coming down hill at high speeds.

When Dakota County walked the trails with us they questioned riders going off the trail creating wider trails etc. We said riders wouldn't do that type of thing.. but to look around the area of the camelback right now its very ugly and damaged. The worst thing is that we clearly block off these routes but riders physically move what we have done. It might take obstacle removal to get peoples attention. I hope not....

We want people to have fun out there and learn how to ride these things, but also ask that everyone please just get off the bike and walk (as you do) - watch for other riders and give them the right of way.

There is always the option of doing multiple laps.. as short as Lebanon is, its easy to re-ride obstacles this way.

[gopherhockey]

Its dry dry dry out there... the new trail is even turning to powder. This is normal, however, on brand new trail.

I can't believe I'm saying this, but we need some rain out there.

[BKocka]

just wait till this afternoon, looks to me like the clouds are rolling in.

[berrywise]

I'd like to blame the dust covering the trail on my wipeout last night. Just a little bit after you get back into the old trail on the intermediate trail in the beginning there is a little log drop that you can bunny hop, hit the ground and my tires didn't quite grip and now I got a nice raspberry on my shin.

[crux]

just wait till this afternoon, looks to me like the clouds are rolling in.

No, not till after my ride. (At least I hope.)

[ibismojo2001]

The rain is well to the southwest. I live about 2 miles directly east (as the crow flies) and no rain there during my lunch.

Hopefully it will hold off as I plan to ride afterwork as well. See you out there.

Cheers,
Hairy Gary:crazy:

[BKocka]

Yea. it got gloomy out here in edina for a while but its brightening up. Maybe ill see some of you guys at leb tonight for the "unofficial penn cycle ride"- but then again, maybe I wont. :D

[nigel]

Just got back from a ride......nice and dry.....perhaps a little too dry! Looked like rain but never saw or felt a drop. We'll see if it holds off though.

[gopherhockey]

I finished the rest of the trimming in the XX loop tonight.

I have the X, Dream Trail, Beginner loop and Dream II yet to complete. The XX was slow going and was really over-grown. The rest should go a bit faster I think.

[gopherhockey]

Just a small trace of rain so far today but there is more on the way. Its probably just damp this morning, but watch the weather - any significant rainfall and today's riding plans should be cancelled...

[crux]

Just a small trace of rain so far today but there is more on the way. Its probably just damp this morning, but watch the weather - any significant rainfall and today's riding plans should be cancelled...

Thanks for the trimming effort that was quite a bit of green to cut back. Almost felt to much last night, but I know how quickly it will all grow back.

Trail is very dust in spots and even starting to loose some sections of trail due to this. This morning trail is to wet to ride and more rain will only delay riding further, trail need a bit of rain anyway.

[Sevadari]

Thanks for the trimming effort that was quite a bit of green to cut back. Almost felt to much last night, but I know how quickly it will all grow back.

Trail is very dust in spots and even starting to loose some sections of trail due to this. This morning trail is to wet to ride and more rain will only delay riding further, trail need a bit of rain anyway.
I managed to sneak in a ride this morning at Leb from 6:15ish to 7:30. Seems my luck was on this morning, the skies were wide open and "orange" for most of my ride and then very light rain started coming down just as I was entering the beginners loop on the way back to the parking lot (which was not open when I first pulled in at 6am or at 7:30 when I finished my ride).

Yes indeed, quite a bit of the trail was dusty, especially most of the first half of the trail up until the meeting place where the X loop starts. Most of the rest of the trail looked fine, must have been some light rain overnight.

One side benefit of riding that early in the morning is that I didn't see another rider the whole time. I appreciate group rides just as much as the next guy, but once in awhile you need a little solitude and morning riding does the trick for me!!!

[gopherhockey]

The trail was VERY dry tonight... rain dance time.

Someone put a huge log on the very top of the monster log pile. I know they didn't do it to add challenge but just did it to be dinks... it was easily removed and hope nobody ended up in an accident over it.

Apparently someone doesn't like MORC all that much, or has strange anger problems for big log piles. Maybe they were hit with a stick one too many times when they were young... who knows. :cool:

[BikerKitty]

That kinda stuff really angers me, especially as a sort-of beginner. Was it really obvious that it wasn't supposed to be there? 'Cause if it wasn't, I'd have had no clue, probably tried that dang pile for the first time ('cause I can get over everything else on the X loop - it ain't purty, but...), and wiped out BIG TIME! And I know that could happen to anyone, but for the people who are a LOT more experienced, they may be able to get out of that situation easier.

What is WRONG with people? You don't solve your issues with others by HURTING them unless you're a bully, assuming that's why someone did it.

And if they did it just to be idiots, well, then...success!!

Okay, I could go on a rant here that would lead all sorts of places, but I won't. It's just that, for some reason, this really pi$$ed me off to read.

I'm glad you noticed the extra log and got it out of there, John.

Thanks.

[Sevadari]

The trail was VERY dry tonight... rain dance time.

Someone put a huge log on the very top of the monster log pile. I know they didn't do it to add challenge but just did it to be dinks... it was easily removed and hope nobody ended up in an accident over it.

Apparently someone doesn't like MORC all that much, or has strange anger problems for big log piles. Maybe they were hit with a stick one too many times when they were young... who knows. :cool:

FYI, the rogue log wasn't there as of 7:30 this morning, must have been put there sometime during the day today.

But I will say, the pile does seem to be "smoothing out" a fair amount. Not sure if this is good or bad, but it seems to roll a heck of a lot easier now than a few weeks ago when I rode it for the first time.

Just my 2 cents worth.

[gopherhockey]

Tha Was it really obvious that it wasn't supposed to be there? 'Cause if it wasn't, I'd have had no clue, probably tried that dang pile for the first time ('cause I can get over everything else on the X loop - it ain't purty, but...), and wiped out BIG TIME!

That is definitely our fear. If people continue to modify obstacles it puts us all in danger, and the only remedy is to remove the obstacles or spend more time out in the woods watching them.

The log wasn't completely obvious, but it did look out of place. Had they done that on the back side vs. the very top it would have hurt someone.

Its a good reason for everyone to always inspect obstacles and if anyone finds anything out of place report here immediately and we will take care of it.

We have some plans to take action against this kind of thing before it costs us the obstacles. I hope all riders will also keep an eye out for people modifying the trail. If you see someone doing this, question them.

[gopherhockey]

Dang I hate being the negative one all the time... but another issue came up.

There has recently been a lot of advertising stuck to the Kiosk in the parking lot. Just last night some event flyers and posteres were placed there covering up the entire map of the trail.

I had to remove the posters only to have them stuck on under the wiper on my car. (I think I know who did it as I saw them watching closely when I removed the poster)

Please if anyone has anything they want to share with the mountain bike community feel free to bring it to me and I will share it with Dakota County, or you can bring it directly to Dakota County. They are sometimes willing to place certain event ads under the glass to support the community.

Separately, MORC is working to get a better trailhead sign and information area where we can perhaps have some space for these types of things separate from the Dakota County material. This could be a good place for a map, trail conditions, rules, and special event notices etc.

We (I) do not want to appear as "trail Nazi's" (as I have been heard) but if we all work together we can keep our trails open and fun for everyone... even if this means having to report the negative things all the time.

Thanks everyone, and have fun out there!

[Ish]

A much needed 1/2 inch in the guage last night in Eagan. Rolling on the road this morning as a result. Oh well.

[crux]

A much needed 1/2 inch in the guage last night in Eagan. Rolling on the road this morning as a result. Oh well.

3 miles from leb in Burnsville we got quite a soaking and figure that trail is going to to wet to ride this morning. Late this afternoon could be possible if no rain and the sun and wind picks up.

[dave t]

My rain-o-meter had 3/4 of an inch at about 2 miles from leb. My back yard is currently a patch of the very same type of dirt as the trail and it is already in good shape. I plan to give Leb a try a bit later unless someone else reports back poor conditions before I go. I'll post what i find.

[gopherhockey]

Leb has some wet spots in low areas, but otherwise looks fine to ride.

I trimmed up the Dream trail today. Now have 2/3 the beginner, expert and Dream II left to trim.

[bikeoutback]

Looks like we got more rain just recently but I'm not sure how much or if it was enough to affect the trial further.

[gopherhockey]

Looks like we got more rain just recently but I'm not sure how much or if it was enough to affect the trial further.

Just a sprinkle... looks like tomorrow will be a nice day to ride.

[crux]

Ride on.

Trail is tacky over all with a few sandy spots and some standing water, but is good to ride today.

Need to address a few problem areas.

[gopherhockey]

Someone keeps making the rock drop near the XX entrance easier by removing a rock on the right side (making an easy line in). We will be fixing this FOR GOOD so please beware of that area in case we add rocks that people are not prepared for.One of these days we'll get all these as$)(#*holes to stop modifying the trail... making it harder each time they do it might do the trick.

[stoneage]

making it harder each time
That's what I did at Wirth. Some jerk kept throwing a rock chicane into the woods, so I just added rocks till they quit. Hasn't changed in 18 months.:)

[bigwheel]

Someone keeps making the rock drop near the XX entrance easier by removing a rock on the right side (making an easy line in). We will be fixing this FOR GOOD so please beware of that area in case we add rocks that people are not prepared for.One of these days we'll get all these as$)(#*holes to stop modifying the trail... making it harder each time they do it might do the trick.

I saw that last night. Time to de-dumb the trail again.

Too bad we need to take time away from building new trail in order to undo the mods caused by people who would rather dumb down a trail than gain the skills to ride it.

It's ironic that people would remove the advanced features of a trail, which are the very reason that they want to ride it.

BTW, dream looks nice where you trimmed the brush. Thanks!

[grizzly adam]

How are the trails for riding tonight?

[bigwheel]

How are the trails for riding tonight?

We didn't get much rain, so I'll guess they are okay.

If not, we will be working on the lower bypass if you are looking for something to do.

[gopherhockey]

I trimmed backwards from Galaxie almost to the double jump area yesterday before trailwork. Only half of Dream II remains, as well as the expert and last half of the beginner loop.

[transplant]

Marginal at best. The existing trail seems to be greasy in spots with a few standing puddles here and there. I can see the new section getting chewed up pretty quickly with excess traffic. It's still soft. Maybe later today will be better.

I didn't even bother going to the X or XX.

[Sevadari]

Marginal at best. The existing trail seems to be greasy in spots with a few standing puddles here and there. I can see the new section getting chewed up pretty quickly with excess traffic. It's still soft. Maybe later today will be better.

I didn't even bother going to the X or XX.

Completely agree on the new section, it was indeed greasy in general...did my best to ride it out slowly while treading as lightly as possible since my shoes would've eaten it up worse had I gotten off to walk.

I did do the X and XX loops (based on the good condition of the more long established trails before the new section) and they were fine...just a couple of places with very small puddles.

Should be fine a little later unless you get the rain shower I just got out here an hour ago.

[gopherhockey]

Thanks for riding lightly in the spots that require it. New trails are always nasty before they fully pack in... hopefully they will harden up in a few weeks and weather rain better. Its almost guaranteed whenever we open a new trail we'll get a good rain soon after.

Thanks to everyone that is waiting a few more hours before riding. Its really not the best idea to head out the morning after a pretty good dumping. (or even a small one) A few sunlight or windy hours does a lot for the trail and for those of us who maintain them.

Hopefully this afternoon will be better for people...

[Sevadari]

Thanks to everyone that is waiting a few more hours before riding. Its really not the best idea to head out the morning after a pretty good dumping. (or even a small one) Words of wisdom for sure, totally agreed.

Only problem was that, living all the way over past the northwest metro, I had no idea until I was into the new section that you had any rain out there last night. Looked mostly like a lot of dew, just like my early morning ride there last week.

Also, since I was on the trail by 6:15, there were no early morning posts in this section to go off of :D !

I do indeed hope that the new section doesn't get chewed up too badly today since I could see a lot of less trail savvy folks beating it up a bit.

John, big time thanks to you and the many others that have built and maintain the trail. The new section looks like it will be real fun once it packs in a bit. And no, I didn't think the log/turn was difficult at all...but I've been riding for a while too.

[gopherhockey]

Yea, we're going to work on a better system of notifcation, maybe even a conditions hotline or something. Doesn't do much good if we don't post updates though... I should have done that last night but got lazy. I appreciated you guys coming back and posting updates as soon as you could - that helps a ton!

[gopherhockey]

Sirens are going off in Rosemount/Eagan area. We're about to get a ton of rain. Will post up once it passes, but it might be good to cancel all Leb riding plans for the weekend or at least until Sunday evening.

[Sevadari]

Yea, we're going to work on a better system of notifcation, maybe even a conditions hotline or something. Doesn't do much good if we don't post updates though... I should have done that last night but got lazy. I appreciated you guys coming back and posting updates as soon as you could - that helps a ton!
IMO you guys have the notification down about as good as one could reasonably expect for "part-timers"! Especially for Leb and Theo Wirth...the two trails that get the most traffic. I think today was just a quirk that's bound to happen every once in awhile.

That sounds funny doesn't it, part-timers, by the looks of it you guys are putting in full-time hours...all for the love of the sport I'm assuming.

In all seriousness though, I really appreciate all the effort to keep those of us that don't live so close up to date on trail and weather conditions. Gotta love MORC!!!:banana::banana::banana:

[gopherhockey]

Its currently raining down at Leb. It appears this will continue this morning then maybe clear up. Not sure that riding is the best idea today, even after the rain stops.

[weekendwarrior]

Would a interface via a cellphone web browser for notifications be of any help? That way when someones does go out there they can flip their phone open and give the trail a condition rating from 0 to 10 where 0 = stay off, 5 ride but be gentle etc etc. This data could then be linked to a call in system as well. Seems free open source software could handle most of this minus the phone line that would be open to calls. I think there are enough geeks on bikes that could make this happen with a little work.

Any thoughts?

:jumpy:
Someday when wireless and power are easy to come by we can put a wireless sign out there that can be changed remotely.

[trompete]

<--- PHP/mysql developer if you need one.

[soupboy]

Is it rideable yet?

[crux]

Trail is still a bit to wet to ride, hopefully it will be dry by Monday

[soupboy]

Is it rideable yet?

Asked and answered.

Got out there about 4:30pm for a couple laps. Other than the usual lingering puddles in the X/XX it was in fine shape. I was surprised how well the new sections had drained.

[weekendwarrior]

It is always nice when someone posts the status of the trail. It's just after the fact to really be usefull unless you are a knight rider(go kitt go). This is of course no fault to soupboy, just the way the current system works.

Wouldn't it of been nice if he could of opened his cellphone and sent a trail status back at 4:45 after his first lap? And all for a status that we need is a green for go or a red for no go. So a 1 or a on the key pad or something. Simple interface and quick and simple input.
:jumpy:

[gopherhockey]

I think some kind of automated update system would certainly help. We have plans to re-design the system but haven't had the time or resources to do it. We've been talking about some kind of movie-phone style dial-in system as well for those who can't check the web quick before they head out to the trail.

Sounds like its probably drying out there now.

[weekendwarrior]

I can help provide any backend software development that is needed.

I'm not known for making the best interfaces unless usuability is not a requirment.

[trompete]

It's currently pouring in Burnsville. Doh.

[gopherhockey]

So far nothing in Rosemount just south of Leb. I can hear the thunder out there tho.

[crux]

Eagan got dumped on and sounds like it is still going strong.

[gopherhockey]

Eagan got dumped on and sounds like it is still going strong.

Yup, its coming down now!

[ibismojo2001]

Figures. I was all psyched to ride Leb tonight. Damn! Oh well. I guess the road it is tonight.

Thanks for the updates.
G:crazy:

[weekendwarrior]

It's moving pretty fast. It's in lakeville now. Any chance it only rained for a short amount of time in eagan?

[Aberrix]

Saw some hail in Burnsville for 3-5 minutes, everything has passed now...

maybe it will get better in the next couple hours?

[weekendwarrior]

It blue and sunny now in lakeville.

[Nelson]

So, what is the verdict on Lebanon tonight? Ride or no ride? Is there supposed to be more moving in around 7?

[bigwheel]

Monday 5:30 pm

I just got off the phone with someone who is there. He says the trail is sopping wet, so please stay away this evening. They were turning people away left and right.

We hardly got any rain, just a few miles a