Tuesday, February 16, 2010

Annadel Goodness


There's a hidden jewel in the MTB jewelry box that is called Annadel State Park. Most riders who are "riders" in the passionate sense, have ridden in this Norcal pleasure palace, but I dare to say that it's still one of the lesser known hotspots on the map.

I personally became introduced to the park in 1992, shortly after the purchase of my first mountain bike. We rolled out of The Bike Peddler in Santa Rosa and immediately hit the trails up the street. At the time, I wasn't aware of how awesome Annadel was because I nothing to compare it to from a mountain biker's perspective. Now, some 18 years later, it's become one of my favorite riding destinations.

Yesterday, a "Pride" of Cats made the pilgrimage over to ride. 22 Mad Cats and 6 hours of singletrack goodness. Awesome climbs, awesome views, redwoods, mud, sweat and tears. Very few mechanicals, very little blood drawn, and many good memories and smiles to go around. The day didn't end at the parking lot... Russian River Brewing had a table with our name on it.

IF you haven't yet witnessed this Norcal goodness, I recommend going with someone who knows the trails. If you want to put together a day of good flow and less pain, travel with someone who can help. Some trails are better run in one direction and one direction only... You'll see...
Oh, and if you are a single-speeder, you'll be in super-heaven if there is such a place, but you might gear-down a little.
Scale 1-10: 9+
Papa Mad Cat

No comments: