Trails Update: Sep 3, 2021
Still No-Flowin’
We couldn’t head further south along Shit Happens without addressing the old woodwork in Anal Intruder. The area is littered with lodgepole pine deadfall, so I understand why the builders used it for the many little bridges connecting boulders and drops. The features have lasted a while, however, pine trees tend to decay really fast once the rotting process begins… we also had to clear many standing dead that lurked over the work sites.
Cedar is the preferred wood to use for outdoor longevity, but they don’t grow so well in this rocky, dry terrain. With plenty of rock available, we swapped out wood for longer lasting granite. There were a couple of rather large projects that the crew took on with glee.
We’ve been treated to some rather cold wet weather to welcome September. Fungi are pushing through the moss and leaves are definitely changing. I was actually shivering while we had lunch: “I can’t believe it’s already thermos time”.
The chill made me feel slow and cranky. I needed to get moving. I noticed a rather loose rock in a slab transition and decided to try to fix the puzzle… the first stone I lifted revealed some stunned wasps! Luckily for me, they were also slowed down by the chilly weather...
I managed to avoid any stings (I even got close enough for a pic) but, we’ll leave that repair on the to-do list until next year.
Sproatt Alpine Closed
A grizzly bear was spotted behaving bear-ly on “On the Rocks”. The bear stood its ground, probably trying to keep anyone away from its berry patch and several bikers had to turn back. The Conservation Officer has closed the area until September 11.
While the alpine trails are closed, you can still ride Mystic to LESS for some lower Sproatt fun.
Make sure you check Trailforks for the latest trail conditions and status before heading out.
Shout out!
Thanks to Ben and the Chief Stick Officer for having a quick saw (when deadfall is reported) and a pack loaded with candy (for when he bumps into the trail crew!)
I also want to give a special thanks to Kevin for having a quick bike (all the time) and clearing the loose boulders and danger sticks (before the rest of us got to the gnarly bits on Friday!).
See you on the trails!
Dan Raymond
WORCA Lead Trail Builder
