MTB Adventure in the Adirondacks
The Adirondacks High Peaks region is probably my favorite place to adventure on foot in the country. I have heard very little about the mountain biking in the area but started to hear more and more about the trail riding in the Wilmington and Whiteface Mountain area over the past few years. I have always hiked and ran on these trails so I was excited to finally get out and explore the trails on the Ibis Ripley.
I began my ride with about 90 minutes on the Flume Trails near Whiteface Mountain before eventually popping out on the Whiteface Memorial Hwy. I was thinking about hitting the Poorman’s Downhill but a trail called COOPER Kiln was just around the corner. I read about this trail prior on www.trailforks.com and part of the description stated that it was “survival riding on a trail bike” with plenty of hike-a-bike sections. I tend to steer toward this type of riding.
After some epic riding, I eventually found my way to Bonnieview Road which completed the original Adirondack Agony Ride. I then headed over to Hardy Road to ride the Beaver Brook Trail Network. This is the first mountain bike specific, multi use trail system built in the Adirondack Park. Looking at the route I had ridden afterwards leaves me excited to head back and add several additions to this ride. Lots of potential in this neck of the woods!
After my morning ride I went back out to the Hardy Road trails with Ben Nephew and his son Gavin. There were many trails that I had missed earlier and they were excited to check out these trails as well.
The Barkeater Trails Alliance (https://www.betatrails.org) did a great job with this area. Plenty of parking and some really fun trails. Whether you are a beginner or expert rider, this place has something for everyone. I have some video of this ride as well that I will post soon.