Category Archives: Bike

For me, mountain bike season is over.  It was fun – a new bike, a few events and a good amount of miles – but I am ready to ski.  This year I am realizing how much I value a transition in between seasons and sports.  It has been really nice to have a few weeks of down time – time to put away one thing before launching into the next.  As part of that housekeeping, I am finally getting around to posting a few photos from the end of the bike season.

As always, my husband, friends and I logged some very pleasant miles at Kingdom Trails.  We appreciate all of the work that goes into maintaining such a large, varied and well-ridden network.  Thank you KTA and landowners!

The 2013 Circumburke was my first ride around the mountain – it was a great event!  At 25 miles, it was long enough to feel like an accomplishment but not too long to turn unpleasant.  The biggest challenge came right at the start with the initial climb, the Victory single track was more extensive and fun than I had anticipated, then a long haul out on the “Gold Trail” before hooking back into the familiar Kingdom Trails network.  Spots of rain, sleet and snow kept it interesting but totally manageable.  I tried my best to look around and enjoy the new terrain and surroundings.  Thank you to all who cut, raked, marked and otherwise worked on trails and to everyone else involved who made this very cool day possible!

After passing on this event in years prior because we weren’t really sure what to expect for the course, weather, conditions – I functioned this year as a scout for spouse and friends.  I can now give a whole-hearted, enthusiastic recommendation of Circumburke to anyone looking for a longer but low-key (think challenge, not race) end of the season ride.

The mass start up on Kirby Road at the Belmont Stock Farm:  bikers, runners, supportive spectators and cows.

Me, pre-ride, looking tired, cold and a little crazy.  I can’t say enough about Shredly shorts – the DH Knickers are a bit longer and perfect for late season riding.  Photo by Herb Swanson

Mark Tucker rode his Salsa Mukluk, one of a small contingent of fat bikes.  He also covered this event much more extensively on his engaging blog – check Single-Speed Slogging for Circumburke recap and photos.

As for Burke this winter, it remains to be seen.  Lots of changes with the ski area ownership and nothing much encouraging coming from official communications nor scuttlebutt we hear.  So we will wait another couple weeks until we can finally get on snow and see how it plays out.  Certainly, we will hope for the best and as always. . . lots of snow!