schnauzers.ws

At 27 miles, it would have been an agonizing ride without the shuttle.

We're dropped off at the starting point and head off into the forest.

The trail follows the river downstream. What does that mean? Downhill for 99.8% of the way. Not a "no pedal" DH, but enough to let you take in the beauty of this area without bursting blood vessels.

It was actually a pretty good start for me and what seemed like a fast pace. Although we tried to slow it down a bit, fun took over.

Chip sweeping the trail:

The trail starts off very smooth. It's a nice flowing twisty tree covered singletrack that aside from the altitude it starts at, reminds me of the east coast. Oh, and the trees in Oregon are much bigger!

All along the way are bridges that cross streams and rivers. It's interesting that the trees are so large, you can actually make a bridge out of one.

Every now and then we take a break, look around, and adjust our pace. A couple of wrong turns take us to a trail around a crystal clear blue lake.

We end up riding through a lava field to a paved path. Just a sample of what's to come, I guess.

Back on track and another bridge to cross.

I wouldn't call this a super technical trail. In fact, if it weren't for the distance, it would be a great trail to take a rider with just a little time under their belt.

But, oh the scenery!

The river then disappears under the ground. I'm guessing in a lava tube, because when it comes back out at a turquoise blue hole, the trail becomes a bit more technical.

Now you have to contend with babyheads and sides made out of razor sharp lava rocks.

I think Joe got a little scared and had an incident.

I think this was my favorite part of the trail. As nasty as the stuff is, I thought it was hoot! I wish I had more photos of this section, but I didn't want to stop.

The lava eventually fades and whats left is a smooth pine needle covered floor. Can you say FAST?

Mauricio wondering why he has no competition:

Another spot where we lose the trail.

Back on again for a short spell, before bailing to the road for the ride back to the car. Many of us ran out of water since it was unusually hot and dry in Oregon.

I have now replaced Two Elk with MRT as my favorite trail. Worth the trip!

Hopefully some of the video comes out since the camera (bullet cam) kept fogging up.