Fun, but expensive.
Its fun, but the cost is a bit high, compared to other bike parks with way more trails and features that are open longer, and way more expensive than any other private trail in the central texas area. Chair lift takes about 8 mins to get to the top, a ride down can take about the same, realistically can do 4 runs an hour.
With the cost and limited trails ( which i know they are making more of ) the cost is hard to justify when you have reveille peak ranch next door for $10, which has its own jump and flow trail. $35 I'd say what I feel the place is worth, and at that price would go all the time. $50 makes it a once every month or two, and makes you think about hitting up some of the other much much cheaper trails.
Aside from that, its really fun, trails are rocky and dusty and slippery when its dry, which is a bit unforgiving but the danger makes it fun. If you're expecting the same conditions that other parks have, its not it. No soft dirt to really dig into. Rocks and dust. Slippery when wet, slippery when dry. Full face helmets are not required, but it is a good idea to wear extra protection than a regular helmet.
Shop has a selection of basic parts like brake pads and chains, which is awesome, as I needed new pads while I was there. Would be cool if they sold sports drinks and snacks, and real bathrooms ( porta pottys only, no bike wash or showers either )
They do have free water station at the top and bottom of the trail, and a medic on staff. Do watchout for wildlife, last time i was there they had a giant beehive in a tree right under the lift and obviously there are snakes in the area.
The last time I went was way better than the previous as far as the trails are, few sections were cleaned up and a bit more groomed, but a few areas were actually worse as the top layer of dirt got worn away leaving rocks. Never any lines or traffic on the trails though.
All the staff is great, polite, and helpful.
Am worried how the metal chair lifts will do once it starts to reach 100 degrees, i don't see how you would not burn yourself on them. Deff. bring sunblock and glasses. Its sunny and dusty. Pack a cooler with drinks and lunch and you'll have...
Read moreComing from Colorado and bigger bike parks like Trestle, I was surprised with the quality of this park three years ago when they first opened. These days, it's even better! They've done a lot of improvements and added new trails and features. It's a great place to ride for anybody who loves biking, whether you're an experienced downhiller or new to the sport. It's tough to beat the chairlift to the top and there are trails for every skill level.
There's a taco stand on site that has good food but its a good idea to bring some lunch and drinks if you don't want tacos. There are lots of picnic tables and plenty of tailgating. There are scenic chairlift rides available for those that don't feel like mountain biking, and a nice hiking trail too.
When the lift is closed during the week you can still check in and get a pedal pass to ride up the service road and hit the downhill trails - it's a great workout and awesome for winter training!
If you're planning to ride a few days, I recommend staying at Thunderbird lodge which is on the same property for easy bike access. Bring your groceries because they have full kitchens and bring your fishing rods if that's your thing. You can even bring your boat if you have one and get out on the water when you're done riding, or rent a kayak or boat from the lodge. The rooms are freahly renovated and the price, service, and location can't be beat.
It's a great escape from the city or from the winter in the mountains. 10/10 — awesome hill...
Read moreThis is by far the most worthwhile trip I have taken to date to go mountain biking. I had never tried downhill riding before, and I really like the trail systems they have because they're ranked from Green (novice/beginner) to Blue (moderate/advanced) Black (semi-pro/slightly insane) and Double Black (expert/seriously intense). I went with some friends who had been here before, and of course gave me no such courtesy as to allowing me to start on the Green trails (haha). The line for the lift may get long during peak hours on weekends, but it honestly moves quickly and efficiently. I was nervous because I don't have as much confidence in my downhill skills as the guys that took me here, and I don't have the most capable bike...but the guys took me on a Blue line for my first run. I'm not going to lie, if you're not comfortable with your riding skills/abilities, you should 100% stick to Green, and take it slow, and should you feel more comfortable afterwards, try the more advanced trails. The people who operate/assist with this park are friendly, courteous, helpful and polite, and that is a big deal for me! I enjoyed every second of my time here - fellow mountain bikers trying to absorb the thrills of the downhill trails are always in a good mood. I really cannot say enough about this place - the amount of time and effort that goes into the trails and technical portions is noticed by all. I cannot wait to come back and enjoy a full day of...
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