Change of Plans; updated

The season is off to a good start with two pavement rides - including the Spring Fling this past week where there were as many tutus as there were sandhill cranes! Though cool outdoors, it's been good to get out on the bikes with friends.

We were in the process of changing the location for next week's dirt ride when Singletrack Advocates opened the Kincaid trails that are south of Raspberry Road. So, see us there on May 24 and thank the wind for drying things out!

Also next week, if you'd like to give the trails a little TLC, you can join Singletrack Advocates in a work party or two. Here's a message from STA:

The trails are starting to dry out, and it's time to get them ready to ride!
Here are the first two volunteer opportunities of the season:

• Tuesday, May 23rd, Jodhpur Parking Lot at 6:30pm 
• Thursday, May 25th, Raspberry Parking Lot at 6:30pm 

Details:
A new waiver must be signed for every volunteer every year.
Please sign a waiver before you arrive:https://app.waiversign.com/e/5ec6a0d0275df10018e1cde3/doc/5ec6a250b3c8af0017c68cb5?event=none

Appropriate Gear and Clothing:

• Bring work gloves
• Bring water
• Wear long pants
• Wear work boots if possible

STA will provide tools and helmets (you may wear your bike helmet if you want). Expect to do some walking to get to the work site.

Here's information about participating in work crews. 

See you on the (paved) trails!

posted by Rose

Springish

Russian Jack bridge.

The calendar and the migrating birds say it's spring but we're still waiting for snow to clear from sections of the paved trails in town. Last weekend, the Ship Creek Trail was clear except for an icy tunnel, while the Coastal Trail and Chester Creek still had areas of snow. It is melting fast, but it sure doesn't seem that way.

We're hoping that our first ride of the season on Wednesday, May 10, will give us clear trails! Be sure to sign up so we know you're coming.

Meanwhile, we've already had two events. The Meet & Greet in late April was a chance to see familiar faces (without helmets!) and meet some new riding friends. It was great to be back in-person indoors for the first time since 2019 and I think Paramount Cycles was glad to have us back.

On Monday, May 1, we had our first Bear Aware clinic in several years. Many thanks to Kristine for arranging for us to be at the Hilltop chalet. The event was open to the public and we had guests from the BikeMe Anchorage group and other people from the wider community. Our presenter, wildlife biologist Marian Snively, showed us tips for effectively using bear spray and offered pointers for other ways we can stay safe while biking, hiking, and just living in bear country! We were able to practice with inert canisters, so it was a worthwhile refresher before we hit the trails.

Marian gives Patience some pointers.

Kristine nails it!

 

Here's a link with resources including videos to help you prepare for the season. Remember, while you're getting your bike and other gear ready, be sure to check your bear spray canisters to make sure they are not expired.

See you on the trails!

posted by rose