Right Coast Mountains: Hot! Hot! Hot! Oak Hill Bike Ride

Saturday, June 19, 2010

Hot! Hot! Hot! Oak Hill Bike Ride

Hot and humid weather has returned to the Upper Valley. Today the temps were pushing into the 90s (just barely) and the humidity was up as well. Luckily for us, the mountain bike trails around here are almost entirely under the wonderful shaded cover of trees. Joining me today were my dad and a friend we mostly see when our pond is frozen.

My dad leads us off around one of the early singletrack corners:

Our destination for the day was Oak Hill and the singletrack trails that wrap around it. Oak Hill is mostly known for its nordic skiing trails that are maintained in the winter. Many people who visit it to mountain bike only ever find the ski trails. They are really missing out. Between and outside of the ski loops lie many tight, twisty, playful singletracks. The entrance are hard to find, but that will hopefully be changing soon.

Jim and John talk trails, weather, and life during a brief pause:

For a long time the trails at Oak Hill have existed as informal, perhaps renegade singletracks. This summer though, the Dartmouth Outing Club hopes to introduce signs and maps to what has only recently become a completely legal riding area:

John fights his way up a climb through the ferns:

It was definitely hot and I will even admit to sweating some, but it was wonderful to get out on the trails today.

1 comment:

Greg HeilJune 20, 2010 at 7:06 PM
It has been hot here in Georgia for several weeks now. Only decent time to ride is early in the morning. I'm hoping to get out tomorrow for some singletrack goodness.

-Greg
http://gregridestrails.com
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IMBA Rules of the Trail

The riders of Right Coast Mountains abide by and advocate for IMBAs Rules of the Trail:

1. Ride On Open Trails Only

Respect trail and road closures -- ask a land manager for clarification if you are uncertain about the status of a trail. Do not trespass on private land. Obtain permits or other authorization as may be required. Be aware that bicycles are not permitted in areas protected as state or federal Wilderness.

2. Leave No Trace

Be sensitive to the dirt beneath you. Wet and muddy trails are more vulnerable to damage than dry ones. When the trail is soft, consider other riding options. This also means staying on existing trails and not creating new ones. Don't cut switchbacks. Be sure to pack out at least as much as you pack in.

3. Control Your Bicycle

Inattention for even a moment could put yourself and others at risk. Obey all bicycle speed regulations and recommendations, and ride within your limits.

4. Yield to Others

Do your utmost to let your fellow trail users know you're coming -- a friendly greeting or bell ring are good methods. Try to anticipate other trail users as you ride around corners. Bicyclists should yield to all other trail users, unless the trail is clearly signed for bike-only travel. Bicyclists traveling downhill should yield to ones headed uphill, unless the trail is clearly signed for one-way or downhill-only traffic. Strive to make each pass a safe and courteous one.

5. Never Scare Animals

Animals are easily startled by an unannounced approach, a sudden movement or a loud noise. Give animals enough room and time to adjust to you. When passing horses, use special care and follow directions from the horseback riders (ask if uncertain). Running cattle and disturbing wildlife are serious offenses.

6. Plan Ahead

Know your equipment, your ability and the area in which you are riding -- and prepare accordingly. Strive to be self-sufficient: keep your equipment in good repair and carry necessary supplies for changes in weather or other conditions. Always wear a helmet and appropriate safety gear.

Right Coast Mountains

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