Dogs Leashed
Overview
River Legacy is an excellent network of cross-country singletrack suited for beginners as well as advanced riders.
The system is set up as one continuous main loop with several optional loops to add mileage. There are also many sections with optional lines; blue = easier, red = harder.
This 'full tour' includes all optional loops except
EKG.
Need to Know
River Legacy trails are directional. From the parking area you'll enter the system on the left (south) side and ride clockwise. The finish will be on the right (north) side.
Located in Arlington, River Legacy sees heavy use from walkers and runners in addtion to mountain bikers. Pedestrian traffic travels in the opposite direction of bikes.
Description
Starting from the back left corner of the parking area, the River Legacy Full Tour starts with an easy level roll into a big dip. It's a fast introduction to what lies ahead. From here the trail continues in a clockwise direction.
The beginning sections of the trail gently roll and twist with a couple of hills, dips and a bridge before hitting the first loop,
EKG.
EKG is the most technical section of River Legacy and is easily bypassed if you're not ready for tight, twisty trail with steep ups and downs. South Loop, the next loop down the trail, is a good example of what
EKG is all about but in a much smaller dose.
From South Loop, the trail transitions into flat, twisting singletrack through open forest. There are a couple of small gradual ups and downs before coming to the intersection for Prairie Loop.
Prairie Loop takes you out into the open with lots of grass and a few clusters of trees. There are a few quick hills to navigate, but overall it's mostly flat.
From Prairie you'll connect to the West End - Fun Town Loop, one of the more advanced sections of River Legacy with tight trees, whoops and jumps.
The loop starts by winding through the trees. The entrance to Fun Town will be marked. This area starts with steep drops and climbs through small gulleys. There are both red (harder) and blue (easier) options through here. About half way through Fun Town you'll come across a dirt jump area. You can stay right here to continue the loop or take a quick left to ride to the top of the hill and try one of many jumps. Take care here as speed will feed your amplitude.
Fun Town funnels back onto West End and back into the trees, eventually connecting back with the main loop.
Next up is the North Loop where you'll have a chance to see some of the wildlife at River Legacy. Don't be surprised to see a wild pig or armadillos through here. This section starts out in open forest and eventually transitions into dense vegetation that feels like you're riding in a tunnel. North Loop makes you feel like you're going in circles as the trail makes several tight turns, looping back on itself.
The finale of the River Legacy Full Tour is on Gordon's Loop, a quick hit before hitting the end of the trail.
The ride ends on the back right side of the parking lot.
Contacts
Shared By:
Leslie Kehmeier
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