Top 5 in '07
The time of dred; time to rate the trails Fat Tire Guides rode in '07. It's not like it's some arguous task that's taking us away from some mind numbing repeat on the boob tube, NO. It comes down to making the difficult decision of selecting and rating trails that are all flippin' great. Mark and I (Gary), the riders mappers, photographers and all around good guys, are going to be giving you a somewhat unique rating. Because we have different riding styles, concequently we prefer different trails, thus our ratings and overall reasons why will differ. Two riders, Two tops 5's.
Mark's Top 5:
1. Smokin Spoke
This trail system has it all; great flow, killer climbs, fast descents,
technical riding from beginning to end. It's well maintained and will
challenge even the best riders. The scenery is beautiful. If you can
pull yourself away from the ride, take a couple of minutes to soak in
the view down by the lake, you won't regret it. This trail is a
definite can't miss. See Detail>
2. Winter Park
Very similar to Smokin Spoke in my mind, great flow with some tough
climbs but with less technical riding. It's a beautiful place to ride
and the view from the top is fantastic. The ascents are challenging and
the descents are fast and furious. The rickety bridge crossings add an
element of fear due to the fact that they might fall apart at any
moment. The only draw back to this trail is its length - only 3.5
miles. Spend a half a day there and ride it multiple times, it's worth
it. Detail Available Soon.
3. Blue Mound
This is a technical ride with multiple creek crossings that require a
lot of concentration. Don't ride this one in the spring, you'll need
all the traction you can get on the rocks. It's a blast when it's dry.
This was our first ride of the '07 season. We were not in biking shape
and the trails were slick. I can't remember the last time Gary through
around that many F-bombs while biking. Unfortunately, Gary does all of
the video editing, so you won't ever see that blooper reel. See Detail>
4. Nine Mile
The technical sections are some of the most challenging in the State,
the majority of which I can ride flawlessly. There are, however,
sections beyond my technical skill level. I've had some of my most
spectacular endos (form and distance) at Nine Mile. But don't get me
wrong, my philosophy is "what doesn't kill you, only makes you
stronger", and believe me, after all of the time I've spent crashing on
the rocks at Nine Mile, I'm as strong as an F'ing Ox. The only reason Nine Mile fell to #4 on my list is because of the lack
of flow. Unless you know where you're going, are riding with someone
who knows where they're going, or have a GPS unit, you'll get lost out
there. See Detail>
5. Underdown
The climbs were long, steep and never ending. I remember climbing but
for the life of me, I can't remember descending. No shit! I can't
remember going down hill ONCE. I'm sure I did, I must have right? I
remember climbing, falling, gasping for air, and gasping for air while
falling. There are few opportunities to rest on this trail, you'll be
challenged at every turn. That being said, the trails are very well
maintained and a blast to ride. I can't wait to go back. See Detail>
Gary's Top 5
1. Winter Park
Only 3.5 miles and the technical riding is at a minimum. Still, after
riding Winter Park, you get that 'damn that was a great trail' feeling.
Really, I don't understand why I'm so drawn to this trail. Bridges are
falling apart, trails are in average shape, but the flow is perfect,
and the scenery is something out of a Hobbitish fairy tale. If you're
heading toward Door County for a weekend, pack the bikes and plan an
excursion off the beaten path for this must ride. Detail Available Soon.
2. The Underdown
Unrelenting, my bud Brian says. #@*% YA! The Underdown works you hard
from start to the finish. I like it because it constantly tests your
riding abilities 100% of the time. Climbs, off camber trails with small
to large hills require balance and finese, while maxin' your heart
rate. It's a love-hate relationship. Trails are in primo conditions
(always). Mountain bikers, it's calling your name. See Detail>
3. Nine Mile County Forest
Of course, I like this trail; this is the trail system, I went to
school on. I've left blood, skin and depressions in the terrain. With
the painful donations, I also have taken away some kickass rides and
knowledge of the sport. Not to mention, it has everything: rock
gardens, fast downhills, tough uphills, long, challenging technical
stretches and of course intermediate and easy trails. When this trail
opens in May '08 make it part of your mtb adventures, you won't be
disappointed. See Detail>
4. Smokin Spokes Damn. What a phenomenal trail system. I feel bad for ranking this as number 4. This well maintained loop is designed with perfectly placed obstacles both natural and man-made. Twists and turns are well crafted into the beautiful country side which seems to just keep on going, Of course it doesn't, it's only 9 miles in length, but needs to be be ridden twice--make it epic. See Detail>
5. Standing Rocks
Perfect balance. There are many hills that work you hard, but will
reward you with the inevitable downhill. This winding snake of a trail
has nothing extremely technical, but does have some challenging areas
throughout the entire length of the trail. Standing Rock is an appox.
14 mile, continuous loop with ski trail bailouts, if needed. The trail
is always in great condition due to the hard work of the volunteers
that always seem to be working. If your driving a long distance to ride
this trail, call the Park to make sure the trail is open. See Detail>