Washington's Trail

Three years ago I gave a brief review of this trail here.

In that time it's gotten no less treacherous - even dry.

I swear every time I ride this thing a little part of me that sucks dies.

It traverses a 50ft slope between the tracks and the river. Most of the time it's only running about 10ft above the water. If you fall, it's a hard bounce on the rocks, then you're wet.

It snakes along the slope, up, down, around trees, over roots and rocks.

It's as hard mentally as it is physically. Your brain is constantly assessing the next challenge and picking the right line. It's up to your body to follow through.

By the end my hands are all cramped from tweaking the bars left or right to achieve the proper balance as my front wheel goes over a rock while my rear wheel slides on a root.

When you're done, your cheeks hurt from smiling so much.

I can't wait for the next time.

- b