2012 Boulder Cup: Cyclocross

The Valmont City Bike Park was host to the 7th annual Boulder Cup Cyclocross event this past weekend and thousands of spectators gathered to watch some of the country’s most elite riders compete in a race of strength and endurance.

Cyclocross is a form of racing done on modified road bikes equipped for off-road terrain.  Races typically take place in the fall and in some areas all winter long.  This form of racing grew from a desire to maintain fitness during the winter months while keeping up with competition at the same time.  Cyclocross is also the perfect activity for us mountain bikers to keep up our endurance during these colder months when our trails are usually covered in snow.

The Boulder Cup is Colorado’s premier Cyclocross event and this year was no exception.  Cycling teams gathered under their tents, the latest technology on display and some of the nicest athletes you'll ever find.  I had the distinct pleasure of meeting my first Olympian this year; Georgia Gould, bronze medalist in mountain biking at the 2012 Summer Olympics in London.  Riding for team Luna Chix, she was among the elite women riders to compete this past weekend and she dominated.

Valmont City Bike Park is an amazing place; the designers have created a spectacular mountain bike training facility including a terrain park, dual slalom run, two pump parks and several classic Cyclocross features including a sandpit and two staircase run-ups.  Trails run in all directions, taking you on all sorts of trail options with obstacles similar to what you’re likely to find up it the Boulder foothills.  The park contains elements to help you in all areas of riding from balance and speed to rock hopping.  If you’re into high speed banking, check out the dual slalom course-it’s exhilarating.  The climbs are fairly easy so if you’re looking for climbing practice in the winter, try Flagstaff road instead.

It was a great day of racing and the view of the Boulder Flatirons was as clear as could be.  Do yourself a huge favor and visit the Valmont City Bike Park, it will surely be a day well spent for kids and adults alike.  

Just another indication that Boulder is the ultimate cycling destination....AR

Golden Gate: Mountain Lion

Golden Gate State Park proudly claims more than 12,000 acres of dense forest, rocky peaks and aspen groves laced with miles of trails that will satisfy even your most adolescent desire for the outdoors.  Located just outside beautiful Golden Colorado, it offers one of the best locations for a panoramic view of the Rocky Mountain Range from Panorama Point.  This past weekend I dared to ride the Mountain Lion trail; again!

I caught the Burro trail at the Bridge Creek parking area, just outside the private property line in Golden Gate Canyon State Park.  The state park map describes this as a “Difficult” trail for all users including hikers, bikers and horseback riders.  This wasn’t my first time out here so I had a good idea what lay ahead.

The trail immediately starts with a rather difficult climb; I wasn’t able to make it before and this time was no different.  It is a steep climb on very rocky tread, the trick is continuous pedaling but I haven’t been able to make it without coming off the pedals and once you’re off it’s quite difficult, on steep inclines, to clip back in.  I did however make it higher than I did before, just a few yards from the first switchback.

Once over this first climb, the trail ascends gradually on intermediate tread to the first trail junction; Burro and Mountain Lion.  I chose to ride Mountain Lion for its scenery and it just so happens to be one of the longer trails in the park.  I go left up past another Burro, Mountain Lion junction and continue up Mountain Lion.  This section of trail is nice; single track and mostly smooth with just a few rocks.  At the 0.87 mile mark the trail turns downward on rocky tread.  Watch out for hikers as you pick up speed and be careful because the trail is very rocky. 

At around the 1 mile mark you come across the restored Tallman Ranch-the Tallman’s were Swedish immigrants who homesteaded here in 1876 because it reminded Anders Tallman of his Swedish homeland.  I was a little disappointed with the modern looking porch swings; not sure why those in charge did not prefer a more authentic feel.  In any event, it is worth stopping for a few moments to see how pioneers lived in the late 1800’s.  There is a plaque just above the pond with a delightful narrative of this historic landmark.

After a few pictures I continue on past the Buffalo, Mountain Lion trail junction and the Forgotten Valley backcountry campsite.  The climb is gradual on double track before suddenly turning up the mountain on tight single track.  This part of the climb is long and very strenuous.  My Garmin Edge recorded a sudden spike in elevation, I can only guess that it must have lost signal under the cover of pine and aspen trees because it wasn’t that steep.  It was however steep enough to wear me down considerably, even after a few brief stops to catch my breath.  The trail is decorated with a few extremely difficult sections with exposed roots and large rock formations competing against you and at steep angles.  The trail finally peaks at 8909 feet at the 2.16 mile mark.

Once on top, the trail immediately starts to descend.  For the next half mile, you will need a lot of skill and some intestinal fortitude to make it down this section.  The trail runs through deep woods with steep drop offs and exposed rock and roots, it will be pretty darn intimidating at any skill level.  I was tempted in many areas to test my skills but good sense would prevail as I clung to trees with one hand while walking the bike with the other.  About halfway down you come across the other side of Burro trail but I continue on down Mountain Lion.

Beginning at around the 3 mile mark the trail clears a bit, from large boulders at least, and takes you down what could be one of the best trails in the area if not for all the intermittent rock protruding from the ground.  These rocks are scattered all along the trail and makes for quite an obstacle course.  The woods are dense and damp from mountain dew and you can hear Deer Creek in the background adding some ambiance to your ride.  I take a couple of spills along this stretch but nothing too serious.  This time out was far more difficult that the last time I rode here; I could only guess it was because of my choice of pedal.  I was on platform pedals last time so I was able to use my feet more to keep my balance.  There are a couple of small creek crossings and log bridges, which unfortunately are not bike friendly.  You’ll also find a couple of hidden campsites in the area; would be perfect for an overnight camping trip.

The long downhill ends at the 4.47 mile mark.  From here you begin another climb, this time on a service road.  The road climbs for 0.75 miles and it may not look steep on the map but I had a bear of a time on this climb-the first hundred yards really takes it out of you, especially after all you’ve been through up to this point (I actually did this part twice because when I reached the top I noticed I hadn’t started the timer on my Garmin Edge so I went back down to start the recording again).  The trail turns downward again at 5.20 miles into your ride.  This part of the trail is probably the easiest descent of the whole ride.  The trail is not too technical with some great twists and turns, too bad it doesn’t last long.  This section brings you down to the Nott Creek trail head and continues through on great but short single track.  The trail turns quickly up the mountain again, so quickly you’ll miss the turn because this short section takes you pretty fast.

The first part of this next climb, at the 6.03 mile mark, is impossible to pass on a bicycle; I suppose there may be some riders who could do it but they’d have to be exceptional or specialists.  At this point in the ride I’m completely exhausted.  The rest of the climb is at about a 45 degree angle for almost a mile, so long and toilsome, I didn't even have the energy for mental notes.  I would end up stopping twice to sit and catch my breath and give my legs a rest.  It’s so hard for me to lose my enthusiasm on a trail but I was so ready to be done by the time I reached the top of this climb (6.81 miles).

The Mountain Lion trail drops for just a short while and meets back up with the Burro trail for a final time before heading down to the trail head.  Coming down this final section can be difficult; you’re coming down a lot faster over many obstacles and then you add an element of fatigue; this ride ends in dramatic fashion.

I had a very hard time the first time I rode this trail; this time around I did much better.  I was out about 3 hours on a very difficult and arduous trail.  This ride is not for everyone and will demand a lot of skill and stamina.  For those who don’t care for an epic ride, find some time to at least make it out to the Tallman Ranch, this is a great area for a picnic and skipping rocks.

Follow my ride at connect.garmin.com/activity/235386948 where you’ll find my ride statistics and trail route.  Riding out in isolation can be very therapeutic so if you're looking for a break from the daily routine, find a little time for some R&R and hit the trails, you'll be glad you did.  Remember, you'll find the fountain of youth on a trail of dirt-ride on!

Alan Romero   

Ceran Saint Vrain: Sleepy Hollow

“He took to his heels, running as fast as he could, making for the bridge since he knew that ghosts and evil spirits did not care to cross running water.”  One of my favorite ghost stories when I was a kid was Washington Irving’s The Legend of Sleepy Hollow and the first time I rode Ceran Saint Vrain the atmosphere surrounding this trail placed you in a scene right out of a childhood ghost story.

At the trail head you cross a bridge set over a running stream as you enter a darkened river valley, much like a scene right out of American Folklore.  The trail starts off with a few rocks but nothing too difficult and only for a very short distance.  Once through the trail is absolutely perfect; damp, well groomed single-track and some of the smoothest in the area.  There are so many things to love about this trail but certainly the running stream all along this trail makes this one of my favorites for atmosphere.  The pine forest will delight the senses; the cool air keeps the scent of camp fires hovering over the landscape and adds another taste to the air.  The pièce de rèsistance is most definitely the trail itself.  The path descends gradually for almost 2 miles; you’ll wish it would never end.  The trail threads through heavily wooded pine forest with some really cool twists and turns; just make sure to yield to hikers.  One of my favorite things about this trail is rolling over pine needles, sometimes completely covering your path, nobbies flinging needles in all directions, making a unique crunching sound beneath you.  

This is a favorite hike-in camping area and a hidden gem among locals.  If you arrive early enough you’ll score yourself a prime site right along the stream.  The trail meanders under abundant shade; sunglasses may actually make it more difficult to see.  This 2-mile section is a promiscuous indulgence for any mountain biker and only requires the will to explore.  There are areas of this section that run along narrow cliffs so if you become uneasy on these sections, dismount or lift your foot closest to the rock wall and use it to keep your balance.  There are 2 or 3 rock formations that require some skill so hop off the bike and walk these very short sections if you don’t think you can pass them safely.  Bring your camera along because there are many great stream clearings that would make great backgrounds for your next online profile picture.

At the 1.89 mile mark the trail turns uphill at a steep grade.  The loose gravel and rock turns an easy trail into an advanced ride in a hurry.  The loose gravel, boulders and steep grade make this climb nearly impossible for my skills.  This part of the ride is on a 4-wheel drive route and I run into four vehicles blocking the path tending to some sort of vehicle damage.  I decide to retreat back down on the 4-wheel drive road which continues uphill across the creek.  This is the only stream crossing that I’m aware of and as I pass my feet partially break the water line, enough to soak my socks.

The trail climbs on loose gravel at a very steep grade, the winter snow melt having eroded parts of the road forming narrow ditches.  Exposed rock and roots make this section extremely difficult for any rider; a beginner would almost certainly end up hiking this section.  The road levels off a bit at about the 2.5 mile mark; keep going because the road gets better.  The climbing is continuous but levels off a bit towards the top.  If you haven’t given up by now, at about the 2.9 mile mark you’ll come across your first abandoned cabin.  This cabin looks like it was carefully planned out, even includes a concrete foundation.  A few yards further up you come across yet another more rustic log cabin-would make a great escape from a Hessian Trooper.  I stop here and snap a few pictures before rolling back down.  These two cabins look inhabitable if restored however the drive up would take a special vehicle and perhaps impossible to pass in the winter.

Downhill from the top for about 0.75 miles you’ll reach some good speed, just be careful because the trail is loose and you don’t want to be caught up here with any broken bones.  From the 3.64 mile mark to the 3.97 mark you will need to take extra care with a steady rear break and cautious front breaking-make sure to keep your weight over the back of the bike and you’ll be fine.  There are some great views of mountain peaks on and around the road so take the time to soak in the Rocky Mountains.

Once past the stream crossing, the climb back is gradual but can be tiresome depending on your pace.  At this time the sun peeks through in areas, reflecting off the cascading water.  I had thought about bringing visitors camping up here, for a Rocky Mountain outdoor experience, and this trip would convince me.  The journey ends at the bridge over running water-cross over as you leave the pages of your own imagination.   

I downloaded my route at connect.garmin.com/activity/233583285 to illustrate my ride and if you ever need a reason to visit our beautiful state, don’t forget to check this blog for some ideas.  Each one of these trails is designed for multi-use and would make a great hike too.

 Happy Trails!  AR

Betasso Preserve: Spumante

Boulder County had its first freeze of the season this past weekend and all week I had been waiting for this day.  When it freezes early in the season, moisture in the air freezes and can turn to light snow flurries and I knew the trails would be perfect.  Overnight this moisture will freeze over the landscape, coating everything with a thin layer of ice producing an absolutely beautiful shimmering sunburst of light. 

I searched the trail database in my mind for a north facing trail with smooth single track and few obstacles-rocks and roots would be slippery in these conditions- and plenty of pine forest.  No question, it had to be Betasso Preserve. 

Betasso Preserve consists of 2 primary loops; Canyon and Benjamin loops.  I chose to start from the Betasso link trail off of Hwy 119 (Boulder Canyon Drive) about 10 or 15 minutes west into the canyon from the intersection of Pearl Street and Boulder Canyon Drive.  There is a small parking area at the trail head so if you’re arriving late you’ll most likely need to park down along the highway at the closest pull off area.  

The first quarter mile of the link is the hardest-a steep and rocky climb on loose tread.  This morning there is a lot of shade and a bit cold for a flatlander from south Texas.  It would only be 5 minutes before I would dismount.  The steep grade and rocky tread made it very difficult for me to keep my front tire down and once you come off the pedals it’s no easy task to remount on clipless pedals.  I ended up walking up the really rocky but short section before remounting.

As I make my way up the link trail I’m greeted with a spectacle I can only describe as brilliant.  As the sun light seeps through the pine trees, the falling icicles sparkle like diamonds falling from the sky.  The air is cold, I can see my breath as I mash on the pedals up this steep climb.  The trail is wet and as I roll along you can hear the frozen icicles on the ground crackle under my tires.  The air is gleaming and so is the trail, the moist air carries the scent of pine and wet dirt; it’s easy to forget you’re cold.

At the 1.16 mile mark you reach the Canyon loop trail junction.  Bikes are only allowed to ride in one direction so without stopping I continue left on a well groomed double track trail.  There is a parking area here if you prefer to bypass the link trails.  The climb is gradual and open for a quarter mile before you enter a rolling section.  The next 1.2 miles will make you feel like a kid again-the trail rolls on smooth double track and if you let off the brakes you’ll reach some fantastic speeds, just make sure you watch for hikers.  Take a few minutes to stop at the park bench and soak up the views of the Boulder foothills.  At the 2.63 mile mark you reach another trail junction; the right will complete the Canyon loop trail or you can go left on the link trail to Benjamin loop to add some mileage to your ride.  I chose to add some extra mileage and try a new trail too.

Benjamin loop begins at the 3.2 mile mark.  The link trail to this point is a gradual climb on smooth single track through pine forest with slight ledges but nothing to be afraid of.  Benjamin loop is also one-way for bikes and after a quick picture for my nephew I set out to experience a new trail.  Immediately the trail descends into dense pine forest.  Once again you’ll find yourself rolling smoothly on single track, with so much shade the air is cold as you accelerate down the trail, and you’re having too much fun to think about anything but the trail ahead of you.  Shade surrounds you as you roll at moderate speed, tires gripping the moist trail, cross a small footbridge, narrowly missing rock walls and trees.  There are some short climbing sections but they are gradual so they shouldn’t take much out of you.  The cascading icicles dot your view with sparkles of light; you have to experience this first hand to really get the full sensation of this unique spectacle.

Benjamin loop ends at the 5.5 mile mark and descends back down to the Canyon loop trail junction at the 6.15 mark.  The trail continues its descent for another 0.74 miles through dense pine on tacky single track.  At the 6.89 mark the trail heads up again on a gradual climb with a few switchbacks.  I’m moving pretty steady through the whole ride that I didn’t realize I hadn’t had any hydration.  At this point I thought I’d just finish then have something to drink at the car-not a wise decision at this altitude.  At the 7.96 mile mark I meet back with the link trail again and head back down to the parking lot.

Riding downhill on this link can be very dangerous.  It is the rockiest part of the ride and also the steepest so make sure you stay in control because any mistake is going to hurt.  The trail is still wet so I have to be extra cautious around the rocks and roots.  The switchbacks should be taken slow because they come quickly and on loose tread.  I am able to ride down to the very end only stopping to allow climbers the right of way.

This trail has quickly become my favorite low impact trail.  It is so smooth and the climbing is mild, anyone can do it with just a little effort.  The link trail takes some skill and a lot of strength, if you’re not ready for it you’ll end up walking most of the way.  The rolling sections will excite any rider and they seem to run forever; you'll begin to wonder whether any pedaling is necessary with the right momentum.  I thought I’d suffer on the way back but the climbing was a breeze.  If you want a fantastic experience without the X-Game freeride, skip the link and drive to the Canyon loop trail head.  This has to be one of the finest trails in the area and will not demand a lot of skill.

Follow my ride at connect.garmin.com/activity/231081199 and don’t forget to click on the green arrow in the map to watch my route play out.

Winter is upon us and the riding will only get more interesting-check back often.  Ride on!

AR