Squish. Jump On In! The Water is Fine. XV - Dirt Season Challenge First one to check them all off wins

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1 In This Issue: Spring Run Off V - Mentoring Youth with a Positive Spin It takes a village with trails VI - What s in Your Bucket? This an t no trip to the beach, or is it? Squish UPMTB aka U. P. Mountain Biking Publisher Bob Hendrickson Editor Ryan LaBar Contributing Writers Lori Hauswirth Ryan LaBar Rhonda Lassila Marc Norton Trail Write-up Contributions: Kyle Lindstom Sam Raymond Bill Quigley Dropping Campfire Smores are Best XXII - Call Out for the Trail Blazers Know anyone deserving? XXIV - Bay Watch The dream becomes reality XXXII- Frank s Secret Recipe You ll find it totally absurd Publisher s Note: 20th Anniversary Issue Have Fun, Ride Safe, Think Dirt! Jump On In! The Water is Fine XV - Dirt Season Challenge First one to check them all off wins XXI - The Only List You ll Ever Need Well, not true, but a good start Light em UP Cover: Neil Washburn about to drop sub-600 sea level into Lake Superior. Contributing Photographers Steve Farr, blackrocksbrewery.com Andy Gregg, bikefurniture.com Chris Holm Chris Schmidt, xmatic.com UPMTB x-files And that one guy Cover Credit graphic design Ryan LaBar photo credt Steve Farr This issue is dedicated to: The Crew -- Gratuities Appreciated U.P. Mountain Biking All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited. Views and opinions of contributors are their own and may differ from those of U.P. Mountain Biking magazine. U.P. Mountain Biking is a publication of Microcosm Adventures, L.L.C. -- U.P. Mountain Biking Negaunee, MI Some of the activities covered in U.P. Mountain Biking may carry significant risk. We recommend abstaining from these activities if you are not qualified. We assume no responsibility for your actions. III

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3 Youth Programs There are several opportunities for youth to get involved in mountain biking across the Upper Peninsula. The descriptions were provided by the organizers directly or their website and Facebook pages. Down Wind Sports Junior MTB Team, Marquette This will be the 17th year of the Junior Mountain Bike Team. Jeff and Melanie Stasser organized this program to introduce local youth to the joys of mountain biking. Riders can expect to learn trail riding techniques, bike maintenance, nutrition, and training schedules. The program is for area youth, ages 8-14 years old. Riders should have a working mountain bike, helmet and hydration system. It is asked that participates please bring in their bike prior to the start of the program to make sure all is in working order. A complete program schedule can be picked up at Down Wind Sports of Marquette We were thrilled with the success of last year s team and look forward to another sensational year. We have planned a season full of riding, learning and fun. The team will meet weekly each Tuesday morning at 9am at Tourist Park and begin each week discussing maintenance, nutrition, racing and other aspects of riding. We will then take to the woods in our ability appropriate groups and ride on mountain bike trails for the duration of the 2 hours. We will ride a variety of terrain. Most importantly, we will have FUN! Best of all, the program is free. Contact the Marquette Down Wind Sports store for more details. 906 Adventure Team, Marquette Local community cycling group, 906 Adventure Team, to organize a youth team that will compete in the Wisconsin High School Cycling League this fall. Team members again attended the NICA (National Interscholastic Cycling Association) Leaders Summit at Trek Headquarters in Waterloo, Wisconsin to become certified ride leaders and officially register the 906 Composite Team in the Wisconsin League. For those not familiar with who NICA is, from their website, they are an American non-profit organization that promotes high school mountain biking programs in the United States. NICA provides governance, leadership, and program support to regional high school mountain biking organizations. 906 Adventure Team is probably most recognized through their local family events (FREI-Day Family Rides) and Take-a-Kid-Mountain Biking Days or the popular events 906 Polar Roll and Marji Gesick 100. From 906 Adventure Team Founder, Todd Poquette: Our goal is to get more people on bikes. The family friendly events have been a great, casual format for mountain biking families to meet other mountain biking families and get kids riding with kids. We introduced a lot of new kids and parents to the trails last year. Last season we established the foundation for a High School Cycling League in the UP. Our first mission? Compete in Wisconsin and learn the ropes. NICA has a ton of amazing resources for us to pull from. Wisconsin has 25+ cycling teams for us to network with and learn from there s no reason to re-create the wheel. The long-range mission? To establish a local UP League in the next 1-3 years. Last season the 906 Composite Team competed in 5 races as part of the Wisconsin High School Cycling League. Weekly training starts May 15. For more informaiton go the 906 Adventure website at continued on pg XVI V

4 Getting You to the Goods... The following is not an all inclusive list. The trail information was provided to UPMTB by the respective region s DNR, chamber of commerce, tourism associations or council, U.S. Forest Service, local mountain bike club, and by our own personal experiences. EASTERN UPPER PENINSULA Drummond Island Location: Drummond Island, the eastern most point of the Upper Peninsula, is the largest freshwater island in the United States. The island contains over 87,000 acres with well over 100 miles of terrain to explore. There is also a technical riding area called Turtle Ridge which is a limestone out cropping that allows numerous routes and trial challenges. For those freeriders looking for a challenge this is the place to go. Island trail guide books are available at the Drummond Island Resort & Conference Center, or or call the Drummond Island Tourism Association at or Canada Lakes Pathway, Luce County Located 5.5 miles southeast of Newberry via M-123 & Co. Rd. 403, the Canada Lakes Pathway offers 14 miles of trails broken into three loops. Although the soil is a little on the sandy side, the trails are well used and a stable tread winds it way through a jack pine for forest and on the back loop it climbs into a hardwood forest before looping around back to the trailhead. The ride is easy to moderate, sometimes a little dusty when dry but really nice just after rain fall. It is a marked DNR trail system and a recreation passport is required. For more information contact the DNR Newberry Field Office at or search for it on the Michigan DNR website: dnr.com Seney National Wildlife Refuge, Schoolcraft County Boarded by Highways M-28 & M-77, the Seney National Wildlife Refuge is a great place to take the family or if you looking for a mellow ride through some of the most diverse wetlands in the Upper Peninsula. This place isn t about epic trails. It s about getting into nature, taking a relaxing cruise on the dirt/gravel roads which are only open to automobiles one-way, and checking out some truly unique U.P. wilderness. Comprised mainly of wetlands, the Seney Wildlife Refuge is home to all types of native animals and migratory birds. The land is managed for wildlife. Water levels on over 7000 acres are regu- VI

5 lated using a system of spillways and dikes. Cyclists can see this management system first hand as they pedal along the streams and pools. The visitor center is located near the town of Germfask off Hwy M-77. It is open daily from May 15-Ocotber 15 from 9am-5pm. Exhibits, and orientation show and friendly staff will help you get started with your visit, for more information call or online at CENTRAL UPPER PENINSULA Bruno s Run Trail, Alger County Bruno s Run Trail is located approximately 11miles south of Highway M-28 on Forest Highway 13. The trail may be accessed from Widewater and Pete s Lake campgrounds, as well as Forest Highway 13 at Moccasin Lake and Forest Road 2173 at Grassy Lake. Limited parking is available at each site. The trail offers a nine mile loop ideal for advance beginner to intermediate mountain bikers. Described by many as an enchanting trail it winds its way past small lakes, over rolling hills and along ridge tops and valleys. For more information call the Munising District Ranger Station at Valley Spur Mountain Bike Trails, Alger County The Valley Spur Mountain Bike Trail System is located five miles southwest of Munsing on Highway M-94 and is part of the Hiawatha National Forest. The Friends of Valley Spur are the caretakers of the system. The trails offer riding opportunities from be- continued on pg VIII UPMTB Bicycle Shop Directory Sault Ste. Marie: Pro Sports, 2621 Ashmun St., Newberry: S&J Sports, 317 Newberry Ave., Munising: South Bay Outfitters, 209 Maple St., Marquette: Downwind Sports, 514 N. Third St., Lakeshore Bike, 505 Lakeshore Blvd., Quick Stop Bike Shop, 1100 N. Third St., Revolutions, 130 W. Washington St., Sports Rack, 315 W. Washington, The Flying Moose, 351 W. Washington St., Keweenaw Peninsula: Cross Country Sports, 507 Oak St., Calumet, Downwind Sports, 308 Sheldon Ave., Houghton, Hancock Bike Shop, 115 Quincy St., Hancock, Keweenaw Adventure Co., Copper Harbor, Rhythm, 418 Shelden Ave., Houghton, Gladstone/Escanaba: Beaten Path, 1015 Lundington, Esacanaba, Brampton Bike & Ski, 910 Delta Ave., Gladstone, Mr. Bike, Ski & Fitness, 1016 Lundington, Escanaba Iron Mountain: Mortl s Sports Center, 120 E. Main, Menominee: Cycle Path, th Street, Ironwood: Hobby Wheel, 1435 E. Cloverland Dr., VII

6 cont. from page VII ginner to intermediate. It offers four loops that provide 26-miles of marked trail. Riders travel through northern hardwood forests, meadows, past lakes, hemlock groves and giant white pine stands. For more information call the Munising District Ranger Station at or online at Grand Island, Alger County Grand Island is a Congressionally-designated National Recreation Area (NRA) located in Munising Bay for recreational pursuits. The island contains 22-square miles of land with 300 sandstone cliffs on the north side, beaches and historical buildings. For more information call the Munising District Ranger Station at or online at Noquemanon Trails Network, Marquette County The Noquemanon Trails Network is a 501c3 organization dedicated to developing, maintaining, signing and mapping non-motorized trail networks throughout Marquette County. The multiuse trail system is being created to connect communities, foster stewardship and draw tourism. The NTN feels a trail network is an important asset to the health of the residents and economy. A jewel of the NTN system is the South Trails of Marquette. This multi-loop system offers great mountain bike singletrack. The trailhead is located just off County Road 553 just south of the City of Marquette and just before the downhill ski area Marquette Mountain. For more information go to Range Mountain Bike Trails, West Marquette County The Range Mountain Bike Trails are located in and around the cities of Ishpeming and Negaunee. It has marked and un-marked trails that are easily accessible via Highway US-41. The Iron Ore Heritage Trail runs between the two communities. This paved greenway connects the two communities and allows access to several trails within the location called Old Town. The best way to experience the Range Mountain Bike Trails is to join up on an open ride on Wednesday evenings leaving at 6:30pm from Cognition Brewery, Ishpeming. For more information go to or Facebook. SOUTH-CENTRAL UPPER PENINSULA Days River Trail System, Delta County Located about five miles north of Gladstone, the Days River Trail System offers riders a looped run of up to nine miles. With scenic lookouts and rolling hills this is one of the more popular trail systems in the south central U.P. The trails are well marked with four loops from two miles to nine miles. Several unmarked singletrack connectors add some mix the system. For more information contact Brampton Bike & Ski at or online at VIII

7 Iron Mountain, Dickinson County Dickinson County is located in the south central section of the Upper Peninsula. Mountain biking and hiking trails are available at most state forest campgrounds and county property. Specific trail information includes: Fumee Lake Natural Area: Fumee is a wildlife area that is only minutes from downtown Iron Mountain and contains both double and single track trails. It can be accessed from both the Iron Mountain and Norway sides of the area. It contains double track trails around Big Fumee (4.45 mi) and Little Fumee (1.55 mi) lakes. Built in the 1999 and 2000 the North Ridge (2.93 mi) and South Ridge (1.43 mi) singletrack trails have survived the test of time and are used on a daily basis. Currently these are the only 2 trails of dedicated single track in the county. The local Dickinson County bike path group has been working on local routes in town and are currently working with the city of Norway to build the first single track trails since Fumee Lake Trail map fumeelakes.org/fumee%20lake%2011x17.pdf Genes Pond: the 2.3 mile trails begins at the boat launch and travels to a scenic overlook and through wildlife openings. Iron Mountain City Park: This trail system offers four loops totaling 3.5 km with east to difficult paths. These wide trails are used as ski trails in the winter as well as running a biking in the summer months.there are several other trail head in this area. For more information call the Tourism Association of the Dickinson County Area at , or -Submitted by Kyle Lindstrom NORTHERN UPPER PENINSULA Houghton/Hancock/Calumet, Houghton County Houghton/Hancock offers a variety of trails and terrain for mountain biking. Using an old railroad grade, bikers can start in Chassell, ride along Portage Lake to Houghton, cross the lift bridge to Hancock and continue on the grade to Calumet, the total distance being more than 25 miles. But there are a lot of interesting loop systems in-between and at both ends. The Chassell ski trail offers 10K of mostly wooded single track. Moderate elevation changes suited toward beginner to intermediate riders. You can find the trail one block west of town. Follow the signs off US-41 for the ski trail. In Houghton, the Michigan Tech Trails offer a variety of challenges, from beginner loops to expert dirt jumping & technical features. The stacked loop system is located just south of the MTU campus off US-42 turn on McInnes Drive. Follow the road up the hill and past the football field and turn on to Sharon Drive. Look for the water tank and turn left. Take the dirt road to the trail head. One of the gems of the area is the Maasto Hiihto Trail/Churning Rapids Trail Systems which offer scenic views of the Swedetown Creek Gorge, dramatic up-hills and down hills, plenty of singletrack and a rhythm pump-style track section that is sure to bring a smile. The trailhead is behind the Houghton County Arena in Hancock. The Swedetown Trails located near Calumet host the annual continued on pg X IX

8 continued from pg IX Great Deer Chase mountain bike race in mid-august. It is home to some 20+ miles of sweet flowy singletrack and is a system that will challenge the beginner or intermediate. And for experts, a few more challenging trails have been build over the past couple seasons. For more information on these trails call Cross Country Sports at or go online to Copper Harbor, Keweenaw County Some of the most unique mountain biking in all the Midwest is located in Michigan s northern-most resort community, Copper Harbor. The narrow finger of land known as the Keweenaw Peninsula extends nearly 70-miles north and east into the center of the world s largest fresh water sea, Lake Superior. The Keweenaw s northern tip is particular is a geographic anomaly consisting of a series of spiny ridges and undulating valleys amidst some of the oldest exposed rock in the world outside the Grand Canyon. The rocky, rugged terrain and sustained elevation changes include a multitude of singletrack climbs and descents that are up to 550 vertical over the course of up to three-miles at a time and are comparable to the western-like mountains biking experience... some even say BC-esque. The singletrack trails wind over exposed bedrock, extensive cedar planked bridges and boardwalks, and through enchanted Boreal Forest, along the scene vistas above Lake Superior with bermed switchbacks, edges of hidden canyons, scenic streams and historic locations. For more info on the Copper Harbor Trail System go online to -Submitted by Sam Raymond WESTERN UPPER PENINSULA Adventure Mine Trails, Ontonagon County Located in little town of Greenland, the Adventure Mine Trails host the annual Miner s Revenge, early July, mountain bike race where participants race on a five mile cross country loop that even goes through one of the mine drifts. Literally underground racing at its best. These are very rugged and technical trails, but also have a twotrack road system that winds through the mine are where foundations of the old mine structures can still be seen. Even if the trails are too technical this is a great stop to discover some of the history of the Upper Peninsula while in route to the Porcupine Mountains. For more info online go to Porcupine Mountains, Ontonagon County The Porcupine Mountain on the western north shore of the Upper Peninsula offers some great easy riding along the crosscountry ski trails there, but plans are underway to expand singletrack options at the downhill ski area located on the east continued on pg XIV X

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10 NTN Singletrack UPdate The NTN Singletrack has been working hard developing plans for the upcoming year and trying to devise creative and effective means of fund raising to pay for it all. Accomplishments for the past year include: Extension of the Eh-line jump trail, top of Benson Grade Opening of Rome a highly technical trail on Benson Grade Lost Creek trail, 1+ mile of beginner singletrack Langford Link scenic trail near the golf course Upper Blue Heron Trail new singletrack connector north Ramblin Man & Wildcat trails on North Trail System Other notable accomplishments includes new grooming equipment for dialing in the Snow Bike Route, both north and south, expansion of South Trails trailhead parking lot, and continued efforts for advocating and collaborating with the City of Marquette and other land owners in creation of a master trail plan. The plan for 2017 is to continue the development of trails within the current footprint, in partnership with land owners and municipalities. There are new trail projects for the North Trails already approved and currently working on plans to finalize the Yellow Loop, and also ramping up trail maintenance efforts whicch includes a crew dedicated to working on existing trails that need a little love. Follow NTN Singletrack on Facebook for current updates. XII

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12 continued from pg X side of the park. The first singletrack trail under development is Log Jammin. The 21 miles of designated mountain bike trails offers loops ranging from 1.5 to 10.5 miles long. Riders can expect rugged terrain, incredible vistas and abundant wildlife viewing opportunities. For more info online go to Wolverine & Copper Peak Mountain Bike Trail Systems, Gogebic County Located on the far west end of the Upper Peninsula near the town of Ironwood, the Wolverine Mountain Bike Trail System has an extensive loop system built on private land and privately owned. It is open to non-motorized use only. It has a mixture of technical singletrack and wide cross-country ski trails. Please observe signage as some of the ski trail system is closed in the summer. The Powers Trail System is a fun network that has a mix of two track, single track and gravel roads. There is around 25 miles of trails total. Some of the trail is shared with ORVS and horses but generally a nice quite place to go ride. It is an easy trail system to get lost on so make sure to carry a map: www. getaroundwup.org/non-motorized/maps/gogebic-county/ The newest trail system on the western Upper Peinsula is Copper Peak Trails. These are modern Flow style trails with great views and a lot of elevation change. They are located at the Copper Peak Ski Jump just off Copper Peak Road north of Ironwood. These trails are open but in progress so use caution. Currently there is about six miles of ride able single track that winds down a valley along Black river then up the back side of Copper Peak Ski jump with the last two miles being a fun downhill section. These trails would be rated at an intermediate level. Maps should be available by mid-summer at the trail head and at Hobby Wheel. Check out copperpeak.com for updates. Also located within the town of Ironwood is the Miners Memorial Heritage Park which offer and easy 2.6-mile loop taking riders past historic mine sites and interruptive markers. There is a section of the trail that is two-way traffic. This system is more of a tour and trail etiquette needs to be followed. For more information of mountain bike opportunities in the Western Upper Peninsula contact Hobby Wheel at or go online to XIV

13 XX Best Trails- Check List Apple Sauce, Calumet A good, classic singletrack ride. Downtown, Copper Harbor This gnarly descent has a solid mix of features. Garden Brook, Copper Harbor Smooth and flowing. Now with optional jumps. Paul s Plunge, Copper Harbor A rough, hard-charging plunge. Red Trail, Copper Harbor Classic Copper Harbor Dangerous Curves, Greenland Name says it all, really. Pucker up. Great Oaks, Hancock Swooping singletrack sure to cause grins Don t Think, Houghton Flow trail for all skill levels. Go as big as you dare. Outer Limits, Houghton Fast and smooth. Both directions are equally fun. Copper Peak, Ironwood Switchbacky climb up, amazing view, long swoopy down Grand View, Ishpeming Take it all in, upper ridge line of Suicide Ski Bowl Carroll Jackson, Ishpeming Built by Carroll Jackson, named in memory of Doctor s Trail, Marquette Fun flow. Lowes Trail, Marquette Long mixed descent. McLovin, Marquette Rock-face riding at its best. Split Tree, Marquette Classic Marquette flow. Scary, Marquette Steep and swoopy. Your Mom, Marquette Old-school all-mountian. Bruno s Run, Munising, Hiawatha National Forest Beautiful 9-mile singletrack loop in U.P. backcountry Munising Bike Park, Munising Machine-built flow, bridge features, sweet loop in town XV

14 Youth Programs continued from pg V MTU Junior Mountain Bike Camp, June Ride through beautiful scenery on well-maintained trails of the local area, including the Michigan Tech Trails, Maasto Hiihto/Churning Rapids, Swedetown, and the Copper Harbor MTB Trails. Gain experience at your own pace as you develop riding skills, get training ideas, learn race strategies, set goals, and tackle some of the coolest single-track in the Midwest. What to Expect: Two to four hours of training per day. We will instruct campers to train at paces and riding levels that are appropriate for them; however, the camp may be intense for novice riders. Special Requirements:Your own bike (with good brakes and appropriate gearing for serious off-road riding) and a helmet. A Health Assessment/Code of Conduct Agreement form and Concussion Awareness Acknowledgement form must be submitted. This is a junior camp for cyclists ages 13 to Under 20 (U20). A cyclist is considered 20 for the year if they will be 20 as of December 31, Start the Cycle, Marquette County Now going into it s fifth year, Start the Cycle gives mentoring, goal setting and a supportive environment for kids to challenge themselves and find their confience. In the beginning, it was two men with an idea to help kids stay out of trouble by getting them on a mountain bike. Very simple in its origin, Dr. John Olesnavage, a local psychologist, and Curtis Hewitt, a board member at Northstar Academy, were seeing at risk kids who needed a focus, a boundary, and a dream. In 2013, working alongside Child and Family Services, the Marquette County Juvenile Probation staff, with a small budget, and donated equipment, 6 Start the Cycle volunteers/mentors met weekly and trained 16 youth to ride mountain bikes. In 2014, Start the Cycle approached Lisa Coombs Gerou, CEO at The YMCA of Marquette County, about becoming a part of the YMCA programs. The YMCA is well versed in organizing and creating sustainable programs for youth and could offer administrative help as well as fundraising and grant writing. The Start the Cycle program was awarded a grant for winter Wellness in Working with Sports Rack Marquette, 5 Start The Cycle riders got the chance to experience fat tire biking. The conclusion of the 6 weeks pilot program was riding the inaugural 906 Polar Roll fat tire bike race. That support has spread to other local bike shops. The program now is year-round with many of the kids who started now mentoring. Start the Cycle believes in all kids. We are giving them something to strive towards, a goal, a dream. It gives mentors and volunteers a chance to give back in a very physical and emotional way. It is said that it takes a village to raise a child. XVI

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19 HOTSHEET Races: June 17: Keweenaw Tread Fest: 12 &25 mile XC races, youth races, contact: MichiganTechRecreation.com June 23-25: Marquette Trails Festival, cross country, gravity events, youth events, for more info: marquettetrailsfest.com July 15: Miner s Revenge Mountain Bike Race, 1/3 mile underground, for more info: minersrevenge.com July 22: Red Earth Classic, cross country races August 12: Ore to Shore Mountain Bike Epic, 48-mile and 28- mile races, youth events, info: oretoshore.com August 19: The Great Deer Chase, 17.5 & 27-mile cross country races, 3 & 4.5-mile youth races, contact: greatdeerchase.org Labor Day Weekend: Bell s Copper Harbor Trails Festival, Michigan s northern-most MTB event: copperharbortrails.org September 9-10: NMU Colligic Trails Celebrations, USA MQT Mtn, contact Mark September 23: Marji Gesick 100-mile & 50-mile self supported races, Marquette County, contact: 906adventureteam.com September 30: Marquette Mountain Bike Enduro, enduro stage race, more info: marquetteenduro.com Sept.-Nov: UPCROSS, cyclocross series, multi-venues; mulitple catagories; more info on Facebook UPCROSS February 17, 2018: Polar Roll snow bike race, short & long, Marquette County, contact: 906adventureteam.com Events: May 26-28: Ride the Keweenaw, organized group rides, multiventues contact: copperharbortrails.org or keweenawtrails.com June 18-22: MTU Youth Mountain Bike Camp, featuring coach Brian Matter, ages 13-20, Weekly Rides: Range Mountain Bike Association, Ishpeming: Wednesday, Cognition Brewery, Ishpeming, meet 6:30 p.m. open group. Down Wind Sports, Marquette: Group rides Thursday night, ride starts at 6:30. For more info call Quick Stop Bike Shop, Marquette: Group rides Tuesday nights, ride starts at 6:30. For more info call Cross Country Sports, Calumet; Wednesday night, 6:30pm or open group Keweenaw Adventure, Copper Harbor: Thursday evening rides, for more info: keweenawadventure.com or call Hobby Wheel, Ironwood: Tuesday evening group rides, call All events & rides: Helmets are mandatory! XXI

20 UPMTB Hall of Fame Honoring Heros of Dirt The notion of a U.P. Mountain Bike Hall of Fame isn t new. It s been tossed around for several seasons. Chatted up in bike shops, mentioned at race events and discussed over beers at many local breweries. The concept came up again while the core group of individuals who contribute to UPMTB started making plans for the 20th anniversary last fall. At the time, it was discussed that we should print a story of the Top 20 Influential People who have contributed to mountain biking in the Upper Peninsula. That alone is a daunting task and leaves open subjective selection and probably over sight of who would be deserving. Out of that came up a list of over 15 people who would be easily recognized and mostly likely deserving then it started getting a little more challenging and the likely hood of what about started to arise. As the print date loomed closer and closer the concept changed toward bring it to the public for decision. Given the nature of people and the likely hood of volunteer participation in such an endeavor we re going to create a nomination list and then seek additional nominations throughout the summer. The deadline will be September 15 XXII

21 and the selection committee will then review the nominationsat which point will be published online. Examples of who may be considered are athletes, trail builders, event organizers, goodwill ambassadors and land managers. These are not exclusive categories and additional segments may be brought to light as the process unfolds. The goal of this is to give recognition to people who stand out as champions of mountain biking for the Upper Peninsula. Giving them a public victory salute and preserving their story for generations who follow. The mountain bike culture has an amazing oral history. Just stop in to any pub or post-ride assembly and you ll hear many stories and recounts of how that happened one time or why that trail ended up there. By documenting these contributions we ll be able to post the stories online for everyone to share in and remember. Key points for nominations must include: Contributions must directly relate to the Upper Peninsula of Michigan mountain bike culture. Individuals must have a proven track record of continued contribution. Not just one time notoriety. The contribution should have history as well as a continuing influence on the way mountain biking has impacted the Upper Peninsula. The contribution must be able to stand the test of time, shift the way things are done and have a lasting impact on the region. In some cases a group or organization can be nominated as a representation of an event or continued program that strengthens the mountain bike culture in the Upper Peninsula. Athlete nominations need to have more than just an impressive race record or event portfolio, contributions must reflect how the Upper Peninsula inspired them to pursue their quest and how they have given back to the Upper Peninsula mountain bike culture through inspiration and impact. Individuals do not need to reside in the Upper Peninsula or be originally from the U.P., but their contributions need to have significant influence to the region and lasting impact. Send nominations to: upmountainbiking@gmail. com Deadline for submissions is September 15, Check upmtb.com and Facebook for more details. XXIII

22 Munising Bay Trail UPdate bridge roller. The Bike Park also includes a Skills Loop featuring over 300 feet of wooden decked bridges, a teeter totter, log rides, and rock armored boulder features. Each of the obstacles in the skills loop offers a ride around option to accommodate a broad range of skill level. MBTN has grown from a small group of local mountain bikers with a desire to build trails they could ride locally, into an organized group that is working hard to make a difference in the community. The focus of this group is to create a non-motorized, multi-use trail system that provides a place to experience outdoor activities in all seasons. MBTN is a non-profit organization that operates on money earned through memberships, sponsorships, donations, and fundraising. MBTN has partnered with important land managers such as The City of Munising and The USFS, whom have provided access to the land in which the trails they once dreamed of now wind through. The Munising Visitors Bureau, an important community partner, has provided monetary support to MBTN since its conception. Their support has enabled MBTN to; pursue grants requiring matched funds, organize events such as the Pictured Rocks Road Race, and hire an experienced trail builder to rough cut the trail utilizing a Kubota U17. Combining the support of these important partnerships with thousands of volunteer hours has empowered MBTN to continue expanding the trail network they envision for the community. MBTN s accomplishments to date illustrate the determination that this group exemplifies. At the top of the list is the completion of nearly eight miles of singletrack trail in the Valley Spur Recreation Area. This singletrack trail begins at the trailhead parking area and winds through the forested hills of Valley Spur, offering a family friendly vibe and enough mildly challenging climbs to give any bike enthusiasts a great workout. The trail work did not stop there. MBTN continued work in Munising at the cities western boundary with the construction of a 1.4 mile singletrack multi-use loop, atop the hill behind the Hillside Party Store. As of fall 2016, the 1.4 mile outer loop encompasses a newly constructed Bike Park featuring a 1500 foot jump trail with 21 rollers, 12 table top jumps, 5 large berm turns, and 1 massive (dirt to wood) XXIV MBTN has many other undertakings to share beyond the trail building mentioned above. This group of volunteers purchased a New Kubota U17 mini excavator with a thumb attachment in July 2016 to assist with their trail building efforts. The purchase of the Kubota was made possible through the USDA Rural Business Development Grant. Generous donations received from local businesses and community members enabled MBTN to meet the match required to secure the grant. MBTN members/volunteers organized a six week youth mountain bike program MBTN Trail Kids that was made available at no charge FREE to all participants. Helmets were made available to all participants as well a limited number of bikes for those that did not have their own. The purchase of the youth program equipment was made possible through grants received by Alger Regional Community Foundation and Superior Health Foundation in Additional youth equipment will be purchased in 2017 with funding received through the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians/CDC Partners to Improve Community Health. This year s Youth Event will begin the Sunday following Labor Day (2:00 3:30pm) and will run for 6 consecutive weeks. MBTN became the new organizer of the Pictured Rocks Road Race in 2016 (41st annual) and successfully brought the participant level back to record numbers. The 2016 event attracted over 500 participants. The goal for 2017 is to increase participant level to 700 registered runners/ walkers. MBTN does not have any plans to slow down with plenty in the pipeline to keep them busy. The work bees (typically Tuesday s from 4:30-6pm) will begin when the snow is gone, to complete the approximate 13 mile loop at Valley Spur. Five miles of singletrack trail, meaning hundreds of volunteer hours, will need to be completed to make it happen. Simultaneously, the Bike Park expansion will continue atop the hill with the addition of a rock armored trail and 300 feet of wooden features to be added to the Skills Loop. The first phase of the Trust Fund Trailhead/parking lot/ universal access trail located on the cities western boundary began late last fall, with the construction of a parking lot in the grassy area adjacent to M28 near the Hillside Party Store. The completion of the parking lot will commence when the weather allows. The second phase which includes the Trail-

23 BEER HERE head/universal access trail is scheduled to begin when the contract bidding process ends and the contractor of choice is awarded the project. The estimated date of completion of the entire trust fund project is November MBTN is working to gain access to public and private lands to expand the trail system. The short term goal is to connect the current trail systems together by linking the City of Munising Trail/Bike Park to the Valley Spur singletrack trail. MBTN is strategically planning additional routes to try and stay ahead, allowing time for National Environmental Policy Act analysis, and other road blocks that may hinder the process. Proposals have been submitted to the USFS for an additional 10 mile loop within Valley Spur and a 15 mile loop across the road (M94) that would link to the connector trail mentioned above. Expansion to the trail in the hills that surround the city of Munising is on the list as a future route to be pursued. BIKES & HIKES MBTN hosts several fundraising events (Pictured Rocks Days -Pizza Sale, Pictured Rocks Road Race, 4th of July raffle, Grand Island Marathon volunteers) throughout the summer to raise the funds required to continue expanding upon the trail network. Additional help from the community is welcome and encouraged. MBTN is working hard to make a difference one trail at a time. If you are interested in learning more about MBTN or becoming a volunteer, please visit mbtn.org and/or like the Facebook page. XXV

24 Pssst..., check out these trails Calumet s best kept secret: Swedetown singletrack. There is no better place to take your family, friends or significant other who has developed an interest in mountain biking than the Swedetown Recreation Area. This trail system now features over 25 miles of fast, fun, flowy singletrack. It is an area that will challenge a beginner or intermediate rider without high consequences for error. For experts, there are more challenging trails to conquer. Most of the trails are designed to ride in either direction, providing variety in the 1,200 acre woods. Take the family out on the Lakeview Loop to see the beaver mansion (and yes it does show up on the satellite photo that is used on the map background.) Enjoy the babbling of McGunn s Creek; the whispering heard in the Cathedral Pines; in the evening you might even hear the owl from which the Two Hoots trail derives its name. Swedetown is a great, family-friendly system where you may pick and choose a number of trail options to fit your time and mood. More trail is being added each season, so if you haven t been there in a while, there may be something new for you to experience. Plans for this season include creating a trailhead closer to downtown Calumet by connecting the Fawn Chase trail to the Back Country trail continued on pg XXVIII XXVI

25 Carroll Jackson Memorial Ride On Wednesday, June 7, the Range Mountain Bike Association will be hosting a memorial ride in honor of founding member Carroll Jackson who passed away on June 4, 2014 during a mountain bike ride on a trail that he just completed building. The ride will start at 6:30pm with a social time and favorite beverages after. Come and share your favorite stories, laugh, cry and remember a true mountain biker. Carrollisms: Always, Jesus hates a coward. I turned something down once, I regretted it ever since. Friday night bible studies, Sunday church rides. Got any bad habits? Let s see where this goes. XXVII

26 continued from pg XXVI Swedetown Secret and also updating and maintaining some of the signage (you ll find that Swedetown is one of the best signed trail systems in the U.P.). The volunteers or trail elves, as they are affectionately known, also hope to add a challenging alternate line in a few spots on the Burly Trail later this year. If time and budget permits, the sustainable two-track roads will be repaired and signed for those who want to ride side by side for a more relaxed experience in the woods. Don t forget to make the Great Deer Chase part of your racing docket this year. This event, which takes place the 3rd Saturday in August, makes for a great first race with a comfortable amount of racers and lots of singletrack. The Great Deer Chase is the sole fundraiser for the summer Swedetown trails. You can learn more about the race online at XXVIII

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29 Copper Harbor UPdate A Place Where even Yoopers Call it Vacationland Story of Access in Copper Harbor The Copper Harbor Trails Club (CHTC) has been adapting to changing land ownership patterns for over 20 years. While some trail systems are solely owned by a single owner, in Copper Harbor a puzzle of ownership provides the space from which a world-class trail system has emerged. Most trail users see a unified trail system but what isn t visible is the diverse owners and relationships that have allowed the trails to develop and exist. Whether it s coffee with a private owner or developing a trail proposal through the DNR, access takes time and ongoing partnerships. CHTC is not being complacent with access and is actively working to protect trails for the future. In the last year, in partnership with Grant Township, CHTC raised $333,300 to secure 94 acres of at risk private land at the heart of the trail system and is now working and meeting with County officials to secure permanent easement to trails crossing Keweenaw Mountain Lodge property. The 94-acre acquisition will move forward this summer but will depend on the appraisal and the current land owner s acceptance. The Keweenaw Mountain Lodge is in a period of uncertainty and is for sale by Keweenaw County after they have struggled to pay back federal Rural Development loans. The lesson for trail users is to not take access for granted, be respectful of the land, and be sure to support efforts that protects mountain bike access for the future. Outside of land protection, on the work list for this summer in Copper Harbor is the completion of Phase 2 of the Keweenaw Point Trail to High Rock Bay, final routing of the proposed Phase 3 and some needed general trail maintenance. Trail users will be able to enjoy the fruits of the 2016 year of trail work including lower Garden Brook, a new hiking trail off of Brockway Mountain Drive, and the expanding Keweenaw Point Phase 2. On the event side of things, Ride the Keweenaw on Memorial Weekend is now partnered with the Portage Health Foundation on a new Experience the Keweenaw event that will broaden the scope of the weekend to hiking, paddling, and biking opportunities. Skills weekends are on the summer docket for the guys and the ladies. Bell s Beer Copper Harbor Trails Fest on Labor Day weekend will be breaking tradition with a new schedule featuring the XC and DH on Saturday, and Trail Run, Enduro, and Junior XC events on Sunday and of course, the Copper Harbor Park will be the gathering point each evening for again great beer and entertainment. Copper Harbor trail efforts are dependent on the generosity of supporters, partners, friends, and volunteers. To learn more about all that is happening in Copper Harbor and how to get involved, visit their website XXXI

30 XXXII Original article from UPMTB 2008 Print Issue

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