Archive

Posts Tagged ‘bikes’

Delaware: Home To One of The Best Bike Trails on The East Coast!

September 1st, 2009 No comments

Delaware was the very first state (of the original 13) to ratify the Constitution of the United States of America. And though it’s a tiny state-the second smallest in our nation-you’ll still find plenty of biking trails to make this a great biking destination. This small wonder is filled with rolling hills and fun challenges for bikers of all levels.

Biking as a family with bikers of various experience levels? Head down toward Glasgow to the 10-mile loop called Lums Pond. Everyone will enjoy the rolling hills and pleasant ride and you can take a side trip onto an unpaved route near the creek for added adventure. Don’t plan to ride after a heavy rain, though, because the trails get muddy and slippery. Pack the insect spray and be alert for hikers and horses and riders-then plan to have fun!

Local residents built a 10-mile bike trail abutting the Brandywine Creek State Park. Called Woodlawn Trustees, this trail area is not far from Wilmington and makes for a great ride with pleasant views. The fields and trees are especially beautiful and interesting during the summer and fall. And once you get started, you can head right on into the state park, as well, if you want to.

Within Brandywine Creek State Park, there are lots of different trails, but not all are designated for biking. On your way in, get a map from the park office so you can stick to the bike trails because otherwise you could get a fine or even have your bike confiscated. Again, these trails can be slippery when they are wet and muddy, so use caution or postpone your ride until the trails dry up. Or stick to the trails with a foundation of wood chips. The wood chips can make things a little challenging, but the steep uphill inclines, fallen logs, rocky terrain in some areas, and one very lengthy rough descent are what more advanced riders dream of!

Middle Run Park in Newark was built by locals. There are many looping trails that can be connected or ridden separately. There arent any hills, but because its so flat, you can really build up a lot of speed. There are some technical areas with roots and rocks, logs, and creek crossings so dont be fooled into thinking that it will be easy. The trails are well-marked but can be confused with nearby White Clay Creek (see below). There may be a fee to ride here during the summer.

Also in Newark, you’ll find one of the best technical trails for advanced riders anywhere along the entire East coast of our nation. Not far from the university, White Clay Creek features a 10-mile network of complex trails with steep drops and skinnies, rapid downhill descents, teeter-totter bridges, and fallen logs. These exciting trails are always being updated and maintained, and they’re worth a special trip to Delaware!

What Delaware lacks in mountains, it makes up for in forests, rivers, and parks. Dont forget to enjoy the gorgeous scenery while you ride! Happy Trails!

If you are looking for quality cruiser bikes at an affordable price take a look at PJs, thecomfortbikeshop.com. She specializes in cruiser bikes and bikes for the casual user. Don’t spend a fortune on a mountain bike, visit thecomfortbikeshop.com.

Great Places to Ride Your Bike in Florida

August 21st, 2009 No comments
by Patricia J Williams

Even though Florida is fairly flat, there are still plenty of places to intrigue and defy bikers of all skill levels. Some of the extra challenges this state provides are plenty of sand and mud (due to the high rainfall). You might even have to watch out for a gator or two!

Located not far from Sebring, Sun ‘N’ Lakes Park boasts five miles of rolling hill country trails perfect for novice bikers and seasoned veterans. Beginners will appreciate some of the nice dry trails while mid-level bikers will enjoy some of the obstacles that keep them from getting bored. And for the experts? Try tackling this terrain after a big rain and enjoy slipping and sliding in the mud! Be sure to pack bug spray, though. The insects can be vicious.

With 16-20 miles of marked trails to select from, Balm Boyette is also a fun place to go for a long bike ride. Beginners can choose flat, even trails and then boost their skill level by navigating some of the trails with rocks, tree roots, and sand as they gain their confidence. Take a map along and explore multiple trails. But don’t forget the water bottles. You’ll get some great exercise and don’t want to get dehydrated.

Set atop what was previously a landfill, Dryer Park boasts several diverse trails. Located not far from West Palm Beach, trail one goes up and down the old landfill hill for three miles of intense riding. Sharp inclines and turns make it exciting for bikers who want to experience a challenge. Trail two encompasses the park’s perimeter with more technical trails leading from it, along with some gravel roads and some paved, but use caution because these trails are also shared by riders on horseback. This is a great trail for riders with some experience who want to build their skills.

If a loop of twists, turns, and technical difficulties-including trees, stumps, roots, leaves, mud, and sand-intrigues you, head over toward Fernandina to tackle the 7-mile trail at Fort Clinch. Plan to bring $5 for admission unless you prefer to park near the beach and come in on your bike. Fort Clinch offers vending machines and has restrooms on the property, as well. Watch for bike trail signs and follow them to ensure you don’t get off on the wrong track, because there are some parts of the trail that can be a bit confusing.

Carter Road is a 6-mile loop near Lakeland. This area is home to an old phosphate mine and features hard-packed track. It has some pretty technical stuff like finger loops, jumps, and rollercoaster drops. All in all, it makes for an awesome ride. Watch out for alligators though!

If you’re in good shape and want to tackle steep hills and technical challenges, head over to Alafia where you’ll find 10 miles of exciting and well kept trails. This trail also has restrooms and a parking fee-usually $2-$4-but it’s worth it. Get a map of the area, though, before you head out, because sometimes the trails aren’t marked clearly and can get confusing.

Beginning bikers and experienced thrill seekers alike will find some fantastic trails to explore in warm and sunny Florida. Just remember to bring plenty of water so you can stay hydrated. And have fun!

About the Author:

Biking Vacations, The Best of the West

March 25th, 2009 No comments

If you are looking for great places to go on vacation without spending a ton of money check out some of my favorite riding destinations. Biking vacations always soothe my soul and are a great to actually experience a place. You won’t just be driving through or around these towns. You will get out and experience them. There are lots of great places to ride your bike, these are a few of my favorites in the West.

Black Diamond Coal Mines, WA. Located on the edge of the historical town of Black Diamond, the trails here are an adventure as well. There is no shortage of trees to count and marvel, but the trails also wind through Lake Sawyer, Frog Lake and Ravensdale Creek. Few areas can rival the Pacific Northwest for natural beauty.

Oregon, Hagg Lake. This lake is so beautiful that when you arrive you may think you accidentally stepped onto the backdrop of an old western. The trail is enough that you know you went riding but easy enough so that you can still enjoy your evenings. At 15 miles you may decide to ride it more than once unless you bring the kids along. Either way make sure to jump in the lake to cool off and have fun.

Napa Valley, California. Known for its ability to produce some of the worlds greatest wines, Napa Valley California is also a phenomenal place to ride your bike. The rolling hills of some of the worlds best vineyards provide a relaxing backdrop for easy rides. The Mt St Helena North Peak is one of my favorite easy rides in the world, providing me with the zen feeling that comes with getting lost in some foothills. If you enjoy wine, this place is not to be missed, just make sure you bring your bike and do your drinking after your ride.

Monterey, CA. Ranging from zero to 150 feet above sea level, 17-mile-drive is one of the beautiful rides in the entire country. Starting from Lovers Point in Pacific Grove (be sure to visit the monarch butterflies), the route follows the rugged shoreline on Oceanview Boulevard and Sunset Drive before turning into the gated community of 5,300-acre Pebble Beach.

Kona, HI. Due to a lot of rainfall, this area of Hawaii is especially lush and green. There are so many natural wonders to see in Hawaii it is hard to narrow it down. The trails on this area will include such incredible sights as Hilo Bay, Pepeekeo Scenic Drive, Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden, and Akaka Falls.

I am sure you can tell by now that I love the Western US. There are so many incredible places to visit and to ride your bike. It was hard to narrow it down to just five places to visit. While there are many other places I could recommend, these five are an incredible way to start your discovery of the west. Pack your bag, bring your bike and have an awesome adventure.

About the Author: