This trail is a combination of some very old and established foot trails with some newer, more sustainable sections. Most of it is older and has the roots to prove it. While there isn't a lot of rock, the roots do provide some intermediate challenge as do the climbs.
Watch for disrespectful people's broken glass in a few spots.
About a dozen bridges add to the fun. There are several "bowl-like" features with some short but steeply graded climbs out. There are 6 climbs of about 100 feet of gain over the 6.35 miles. And, of course, what goes up...
The trail starts with nice flowing downhill singletrack that exits into a field. Cross it going slightly uphill and reenter the trees on the other side. After a little switchback, it reemerges in the field. Just U-turn to the right, back into the trees. It's all singletrack from here. There are several path and service access crossings. If the MTB trail isn't obvious, it's usually marked with a brown wooden sign with an up arrow or a carsonite post. If the signs have been stolen, and you find yourself in doubt, go straight across. New signs have been added that significantly help navigate the trail.
Note the tree gap drop. It's not so big that it can't be rolled by a noobie, but you'll be leaning left, possibly landing on roots, and setting up for a quick right turn immediately after. Really fun!
There is a nice view overlooking the creek before climbing Halloween Hill (the city used to have a haunted park thing on this part of the trail at Halloween). The top is where you cross the only railed bridge. The fall-line descent is great! Near the bottom, after crossing a bridge, GO STRAIGHT, over the edge. Then turn right at the T. Just past 2.2 miles is a 4-way. Go straight up the short hill. A wooden arrow sign is slightly hidden up the hill away from vandals' view. The trail rejoins the other quickly. Turn right.
The most scenic place is a small waterfall near 2.3 miles. It's just briefly visible from the trail, but you'll hear it long before you see it. It's just a few feet off the trail and a great place to prepare for the next climb to the halfway mark.
Immediately after the halfway point, named Top of the World, is a connector trail to the right that will allow you to shorten your ride and avoid some substantial climbs. Some of the best trail is to come so I don't recommend the shortcut.
Another long descent brings you to the Red Bridge section and the Bridges section. All structures are narrow to keep ATV's off and have gaps to keep horses off. So, use caution.
After the Bridges one begins another climb to the Cedars section. Some super rolly and airable trail lies on the other side. Some mild climbing then reaches the far west side of the trail. There is an "Exit to Sunbridge" that takes you on a brief road ride to
Sunbridge Hills Conservation Area.
Once you reach "Powerline" and blast downhill, watch for "The Chute," one of the most fun sections of trail. If you miss the sign, you'll know when you're there!
Nevermind the gunshots you may hear starting your next big climb. It's the SJPD range close by.
There are some fun "bowl-like" features on the last part of the trail with some steep climbs. Carrying some speed into them helps.
Whatever you do, bring your power legs. You'll need them!
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