Thursday, August 27, 2009

Riding Your Bike in Idaho

By Patricia J Walker

There are over 19,000 miles of bike trails in the state of Idaho. In an area thats known for its mountains and rivers, you can expect some spectacular riding! Because of harder winters and wet springs, the best time to ride is usually summer or early fall. Here are a variety of trails that Idaho has to offer for riders of every skill level.

Beginners may want to start on an 11-mile loop not far from Pocatello. This trail-referred to as the Valve or Pump House Trail in the Mink Creek Recreation Area-is a long simple trek that can help build riding endurance without too many technical challenges. Don't forget to bring water, though, and stay hydrated.

Near Stanley, intermediate riders will enjoy the 12-mile loop called Elk Mountain. This trail is initially a pretty easy uphill climb and it provides a fantastic view of the Saw Tooth Mountains, but the descent is pretty rocky all the way down to Elk Meadows. You get to cross a few streams, too. All along this trail, the scenery is incredible.

Goose Creek Falls is the perfect ride for the nature lover. You dont have to too experienced to enjoy this ride. Its a 12-mile track near McCall that takes you back to 45-foot waterfall. You will have to actually cross Goose Creek a couple of times either by a bridge, a log crossing, or on foot. Other than that, theres not too much complexity about the trail. You can even camp nearby.

The Schweitzer Mountain Resort has a fantastic network of trails that are very well maintained. You can climb up yourself or get a ride to enjoy a technically advanced descent. Turns with berms, bridges, and more is what you can expect from the 25 miles of trails here. Experience levels range from intermediate to advanced.

If speed is more your style, head over toward Ketchum to the Bald Mountain Downhill trail. You can climb the hill yourself and tackle this 10-mile loop, but with an elevation gain somewhere between 3,000 and 4,000 feet, you may just want to opt for the $15 chairlift ride to the top. Coming down is an incredible rush! Don't try this one without a full suspension bike, and you'd better plan ahead by packing extra tubes and a repair kit, because you never know when you're going to need them. This trail is also open to hikers, and due to the speed, you should be extra cautious when navigating this trail.

Nearly impassable during the wet season, the Bear Pete Trail is a great ride during dry late summers or early in the fall and the trail runs 19 miles. Located near McCall, you'll encounter a steep climb uphill but will be rewarded with views of Oregon and the Saw Tooth Mountains for your efforts. The decline is also tricky, so this one is also an adventure for the more experienced rider. And at the end of the trail, you can relax at the hot springs resort you'll discover there!

Since Idaho is very mountainous, advanced and adventurous riders are guaranteed to love it here. The terrain is rugged with valleys, rivers, and waterfalls that are spectacular to behold. The natural beauty of Idaho is just waiting to be enjoyed by bikers ready to accept the challenge. But don't forget-there are some great trails for beginning riders here, as well. There really is something for everyone in Idaho!

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