Sunday, May 16, 2010

Finally got some riding in at Ponca State Park

I went on a two week hiatus and my bike just sat in the corner. I kinda fell into the lazy not wanting to bike mood, but still managed to get to the gym about 5 days per week. Our original plan was to head down to KC this weekend and ride Landahl Park, but the weather was not looking favorable down there. So instead we headed up north to Ponca State Park to prep for the upcoming race. It's a drive that takes a little over 2hrs, just west of Sioux City. If you plan to eat lunch out there, just try to eat before 1:30pm. The Chic was closed on weekends at 2pm, and Outlaw Pizza only serves food until 1:30pm then reopens at 4:30pm. Luckily, the owner of Outlaw Pizza was outside painting and gracious enough to open his doors for us. Otherwise there is a gas station/convenience store selling some food.

I love the expression on my face, pure enjoyment! 

The trail conditions were great for the most part, one downed tree blocking the trail (on Buffalo Run?) and some overgrowth that nips at your legs. Otherwise pretty decent riding. The hills will burn your legs and my quads were cramping by 4pm. Lots of hopping off and pushing on certain climbs, but the trails flow pretty smoothly for the most part. A fellow mt biker from Omaha named Cody joined us with his Chumba full suspension. We only had one fall on the Corps if Discovery trail, and it could have been a bad one. Luckily a tree stopped the bike and the rider from falling 30ft. A rider that shall remain unnamed threw up shortly into the first ride, Friday night's shenanigans had caught up to him (it wasn't me!).  The views are spectacular from the tops of the hills, so bring your camera if you plan to get out there. Weird, no mosquitoes, but a ton of gnats and a few ticks were found on clothing so bring your best bug spray!
 It took some teamwork to get over this tree. Barbed wire right next to it, watch out!
 

This Oak tree on Old Oak Trail is 366 yrs old!
 
 Picture provided by Cory
 The tree stopped Krista's fall! Whew!

 Cody getting some major air 

 

2 comments:

  1. Nice pictures guys, looks like fun. For those of you that have riden at Potters Pasture we now have free flowing video of several trails with more to come. Next time I come by your way I would like to check out your trails.
    http://potterspasturemtb.blogspot.com/

    Paul Brasby
    North Platte

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  2. Thanks Paul for the heads up on the video. It brought back great memories of the riding, snowy night ride, the shivering and 6 inches of snow, and the eating of pancakes in full parkas! Great times! Let us know if you guys make it to the Omaha area and we'll get some riding in.

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