Rattling Creek SingleTrackers

An Incredible Feat Accomplished - And Then Some! The Bridges are Back

2011-12-05T04:37:00.005-05:00

First, we can't thank the 27 folks ENOUGH who came out and made this project happen. They include: Doug Bailey (he's the main guy that made this happen - thanks Doug!), Erik Bolig, George Harman, Emory Ehrenfeld, Joe Ketrick, Dale Shomper, Alan Murak, Rick Begley, Matt Hollenbach, Mike Kuhn, Keith Whitcomb, Chris Jones, Saysana Inthauungsa, Joe Daversa, Clayton Bouchard, Jason Petroff, John Haines, Fred Bellis, Brian Despot, Martha Ruff, Joe Lauver, Steve Miller, Kory Jones, Ed Hidden, Shawn Withers, Rick Brown and Jill Wiest. A special thanks to Ed Hidden for the below YouTube Video. It's heartwarming to see the teamwork and hardwork that went into dismantling, moving, and reassembling the bridges. Here's the You Tube Vid, courtesy Ed Hidden.

And here are Rick's Pictures. Definitely worth a look along with the You Tube Vid by Ed. In both these cases, a picture is worth a thousand words, fer shure!

Update on Bridge Retrieval for Dec 4

2011-11-24T05:42:00.000-05:00

The December 4 workday is ON. Doug and his "crew" (Nathan and Jack) were doing some rock work on Sunday and helped cut in the trail for the bridge beam carrying. The footer for the bridge beams will be reinforced this weekend and that should put everything in place for December 4. Clayton and his friends put the small bridge back over Rattling Creek downstream a ways where it landed. This will serve as a perfect temporary detour until the big bridge is completed. We're not sure if we'll finish on December 4. The detour is off of Doc Smith trail -- look for the orange ribbons. Rick and Jill cleared a path from Doc Smith to the bridge, and Clayton cut a path from the bridge almost to Rattling Creek. Rick and Jill finished the connection. It's a good temporary go-around. Thanks Clayton for doing this. The trail is mostly rideable. We're concerned though if there's a downpour some of it will be underwater. For December 4, we're not quite at twenty folks on the list of folks helping that have confirmed with Rick/Jill, but feel confident we'll have enough because many have said they'd help. Please, if you plan on coming, let us know. rebjsw@epix.net

Rattling Creek Named IMBA Epic - Now Let's Retrieve a Bridge

2011-11-15T04:47:00.000-05:00

Little ole' Rattling Creek has its 10 minutes of fame - an IMBA Epic. Heck, even Keith is mentioned in the article - so that means he's famous too!   IMBA talks about the trails being a labor of love, and they truly were for many years. You can read the entire press release here.

NOW:

Since everyone loves these trails so much, please help us bring the bridges back.

DECEMBER 4 - 10:00 am - meeting at the Rattling Creek end of Doc Smith Trail. BRIDGE RETRIEVAL DAY.

Thanks to a couple locals (Doug, Clayton) and a fellow SAMBA rider (Kory), the effort to retrieve the bridges is alive and well and planned for December 4. We need manpower to make this happen.   Below is what was discussed to get the beams back in place.    Be prepared to get wet feet -- bring a change of clothes. And of course bring your bike to ride the "Epic" trail system afterwards. Please let us know if you can make it: rebjsw@epix.net We need a head count to make sure this can happen.

We discussed a possible method using sets of straps as hand holds allowing one person on each side of a strap to lift or drag the beams out of the creek and back up to a location on the far side of the creek along the original trail. We are looking into how to fashion sets of straps or ropes with hand holds to allow many people lift or drag a beam.

Doug had also mentioned how they use small diameter logs under the ferry boats when they move them out of the water and onto the shore for winter. We thought that we may be able to work something like that out to help us drag the beams back up the makeshift trail I cut some weeks ago. If nothing else, placing short sections of logs under the beam while trying to move it will allow it to slide over the ground and not get hung up on everything. The distance the beams need to be moved is short enough that we feel this method of lifting or dragging with straps or ropes may be able to be used.

Downstream Bridge Pictures

2011-10-16T18:32:00.000-04:00

Rick got out to get some pictures of the washed out bridges to assess the situation and share what he found with someone that might be able to organize a community group project to retrieve them. We'll keep you posted. Here are the links to the bridges.

Small Bridge

Big Bridge

Oct 8 Bridge Retrieval CANCELLED

2011-10-06T14:18:00.000-04:00

Due to lack of response, the bridge retrieval trail work day for this Saturday, October 8 is CANCELLED. Looks like we'll be bridgeless for a while.

Bridge Retrieval Work Day - October 8 at 9:30 am.

2011-09-30T12:33:00.000-04:00

Please try to make the bridge retrieval work day on October 8 at 9:30, meeting at the Rattling Creek end of Doc Smith Trail. Kory would greatly appreciate your responding to him to let him know if you can make it. As mentioned before, he needs at least 10 people for this project and only 4 responded last week. The weather certainly played a big factor last week, so maybe the 8th will see lower water levels for a change with more folks available to help. Please contact Kory at kjmt001@comcast.net . Thanks!

Trail Bridges Across Rattling Creek still Downstream - Beware

2011-09-28T09:23:00.000-04:00

Please be careful crossing the creeks where the bridges used to be. There was to be a work session last week, but I haven't heard the results other than seeing they aren't back in place.

Saturday Work Session -- Putting the Bridges Back

2011-09-21T19:55:00.000-04:00

9:30 Saturday , 9-24, at the trail head for Doc Smith Trail, Rattling Creek End. Many thanks to Kory Jones for coordinating the bridge retrieval. He'd really like someone there that participated in the last retrieval - Rick nor I are able to be there on Saturday. I'm sharing this e-mail with folks that attended the BASH because some expressed an interest in helping out. Rick wanted to share basic tools you'll need to bring: hammer, crow bar, a saw, rope. These beams are quite a bit heavier than the smaller bridge we moved back last time. A come along or some other mechanical advantage could be helpful if available. A group of at least 8-10 would be the best. Rick can't recall how many fit on the 22 foot beam, but he's thinking somewhere between 10-12 for the 30 foot beams would work. Please let Kory know if you can make it and what tools you might be able to bring. You can contact him at KJMT001@comcast.net Thanks to all. Sorry we will be missing this important session.

Another Happy BASH - the LAST BASH

2011-09-19T06:56:00.000-04:00

Lots of happy campers once again at the LAST BASH. Ricks pictures are here that show the evidence of happiness in many ways. Thanks to all of you for making all 12 years memorable. (11 years technically for me... 10 for Rick.... 12 for Keith). We enjoy having you as much as you enjoy coming -- even if some of you don't like heavy metal. You'll be happy to know, the Valley Mountain Bikers (VMB) decided it can't be the Last Bash and stepped up to the plate to take it over for next year. Yes, it was the Last Bash for RCST, but not the last Bash! Did you really think it would die?? Ride on...

Bridges Downstream -- Anyone Care to Retrieve?

2011-09-17T04:26:00.000-04:00

Several fellow-mountainbikers have spotted the bridges downstream. The largest is about 100 yards downstream and smaller is about 1/4 mile own dnot far from Doc-Smith trail. One of the spotters is at the BASH and he commented how there's certainly enough of manpower at the BASH, maybe a bridge-retrieval possy should be organized and go get them. And I said, "would you like to do that??" He didn't (that I know of). The club and those that ride the trails would be very grateful if someone would step forward, take leadership, and organize this effort. As mentioned before, I'd be glad to get the word out via this BLOG and maybe to those who are attending the BASH this year and I'm sure you'd get enough helping hands to retrieve.

Rattling Creek Trail Assessment After Lee and Irene

2011-09-11T06:28:00.001-04:00

Where a bridge used to be on Rattling Creek Trail

The RCST trails were hammered first with the winds of Irene three weeks ago and now with the rains of Lee. We estimate this area saw somewhere between 12 and 15 inches of rain over a 4-day period and where there's rushing water, there's bound to be some damage. The trees are removable which we've accomplished (the majority of them). The high waters of Lee, however, took its toll on the bridges over Rattling Creek on Rattling Creek trail. They are gone. In 2004, Ivan did the same thing with the smaller of the two bridges and the club retrieved the bridge from downstream, dismantled it, and returned it to its home. This time both are gone including the largest 32-foot span. As of today, there are no plans to retrieve. If you would like to take the lead in this effort to rebuild the bridges, let us know and we'll help you get the word out. As for the remainder of the trails after the heavy rain washing, be prepared for more rocks. Many of the trails acted as streams to carry the rushing water and you can visibly see the washing. All are still rideable, but very rocky at spots.

Before and After Lee - Rattling Creek Trail Bridges

2011-09-10T03:21:00.000-04:00

Before

and after

Thanks to Clayton for the second photo at high water level on Wednesday after the bridges were washed away. More shots coming later today.

More Update on the Trails and Weather

2011-09-09T17:01:00.000-04:00

Thanks to those of you who e-mailed about helping with cutting trees. We have bigger fish to fry now -- a flood and washed trails. Both bridges are washed out on Rattling Creek trail an anonymous post reported. Rick and I heading to the woods tomorrow to scope the situation out. Not sure how much we'll get "repaired" before the LAST BASH.

Weather Update and the Trails

2011-09-08T04:33:00.000-04:00

Irene downed about 25ish trees on the trails and thanks to Em, most brush is cleared and 5 of those trees. We got two of the trees this past weekend and will get out again this weekend. Our next concern are the bridges over Rattling Creek. In Ivan (2004), a bridge washed away. Lee's rains the past 48 hours were comparable, so we are thinking we may be missing a bridge or two. Will keep you posted. The club only has one chainsaw. If you have a chainsaw and are available this weekend, please email us and maybe we can coordinate a quicky trailwork session. Fawn Kill had the most downed trees at 14. rebjsw@epix.net

Last BASH Itinerary 2011

2011-08-31T06:54:00.002-04:00

The (2011) 12th and Last RCST Mountain Bike BASH
Happenings and Times

Thursday 5 pm – Camp gate opens

Friday 7-8:30am – Breakfast
Friday (all day) – Informal Rides(self guided)
ask us for trail maps
Friday 6 pm-? – Pizza – Bring your own ingredients - Bake in Bunk House
Friday 6 pm – Micro-Brew Swap
Friday 7:00ish-? – Live Band

Saturday 7-8:30 am – Breakfast
Saturday 10:00 am – Organized Group Rides
Meet by pavilions
Saturday 4 pm – Troegs tasting begins
Saturday 5 or 5:30 pm – Chicken Dinner
Saturday 7 pm – Prize Drawings
Saturday 8:00ish-? – Live Band

Sunday 7-8:30 am – Breakfast
Sunday – On your own Rides
Sunday 3:00 pm – Camp gate closes
Please be out by 3pm

Last BASH Itinerary Coming Shortly

2011-08-07T05:25:00.000-04:00

We are putting the finishing touches on the itinerary for the weekend and will post to this blog and send via e-mail to all registrants when ready. In a nutshell, same as prior years: a live band Friday AND Saturday evening, beverage exchange friday evening, beverage wagon saturday evening, Gonder's Grubhouse chicken/vegetarian dinner on Saturday evening, swag drawing Saturday evening, etc. We will NOT be having the chili cook-off on Friday evening. Instead, we will be inviting folks to BYOP (Bring Your Own Pizza) supplies and put together your own creation on Friday evening in the bunkhouse kitchen. There are two really nice ovens you are welcome to use to make pizza. The PORC folks did this last year and had a ton of fun. There's a bunch more ride-on-your-own time this year too with nothing planned for Sunday but recovery from Saturday and ride when you feel.

BASH Registration is now CLOSED

2011-07-26T15:10:00.001-04:00

SOLD OUT.

Only 5 Spots Remain for the BASH

2011-07-26T06:46:00.000-04:00

Almost gone! 5 spots left for the BASH. Get them before BikeReg shuts down.

The Last Bash - Almost Full - 12 Spots Remain

2011-07-25T09:33:00.001-04:00

As of today, there are only 12 spots left for the Last Bash. Just as a reminder, when we hit the limit, registration will be closed and we will begin turning folks away.

2011 LAST BASH Approaches Maximum Capacity

2011-07-20T07:33:00.000-04:00

Email send to 2010 BASH Attendees:

If you haven't already registered for the 2011 BASH and had planned on doing so, you better do it quick. We've hit the maximum of 150 and decided since this is the last bash, we'll go to 200. We only have 38 slots remaining with just over two months until the BASH. When the entries hit 200, we will be officially closed. So get your entry in before it closes.

The LAST BASH Registrations Keep Rolling in.

2011-07-05T06:51:00.001-04:00

Right now, the count for the LAST BASH is at 139 with two months to go. Each year, we cap the registrations at 150, but this year, since its the last year, we'll make an exception and cap it at 200. 200 is a FIRM number. When we hit 200, we truly will be shut down for any more entries. Registration is on the sidebar.

The Outdoor Experience Organization -- Riding Part of the Trans-Sylvania Epic

2011-05-21T05:40:00.003-04:00

Most of you have probably heard of the Trans-Sylvania Mountain Bike Epic by now -- the 7-day staged mountain bike race based out of Seven Mountains Boy Scout Camp near State College. The organizers are giving you a chance to ride one of the stages. Go here for info. Did you know that by riding that one day, the proceeds will help towards maintaining the Rattling Creek Trails? The Outdoor Experience Organization's mission is:
to build and create, improve upon, and document forest trails in the state of Pennsylvania for the use of foot traffic, bicycles, cross-country skiers, equestrians and other user groups in order to increase interest in sustainable, healthy, and enjoyable outdoor oriented activities; build outdoor recreation tourism in Pennsylvania; and contribute to improved community health and wellness by increasing availability of fitness-related outdoor recreational activities and enhancing outdoor recreational opportunities.
This includes Rattling Creek and if you go to the Organization's website, you'll see there's something in the works for the trails. Soo.... if you have nothing to do on Memorial Day, why not sign up for a ride on the hardest stage of the now infamous Trans-Sylvania Epic and at the same time, support the trails of Rattling Creek? Sign up here.

Trail Gods Were At It Again

2011-03-19T18:42:00.003-04:00

Mountain bikers are a caring, good bunch of gents and gals. We see it at the Bash, at other events, races, and I witness it numerous times on the trails. They care about each other, about the trails, about the event they are at. They aren't afraid to chip in, help out, share, or lend a hand. They remove tree limbs, ramp up logs, and will stop and take a minute to do a little trail maintenance. I even know a couple guys who will carry a small folding saw with them to do some maintenance while riding. Today, I saw no less than 5 or 6 trees that were chain sawed to get them off the trail. Someone took a bunch of time to walk all of Fawn Kill (about 3 miles) and also got a huge tree on Doc Smith. THANK YOU. You know who you are, but I don't know who you are or I'd send you a personal thank you. Mountain bikers ROCK!!! Thanks guys and gals - you're all the best.

Trail Update March 18, 2011

2011-03-18T15:11:00.002-04:00

RIDE ON! No ice, snow, or even gushing water at this point. Just a couple trees to hop over every now and then, but hey - that's mountain biking! Hello springtime - nice to have you.

Water Water Everywhere

2011-03-12T20:58:00.003-05:00

If you ride on Sunday, March 13, be prepared to get wet. There's some serious water flowing in the woods and all those runs that are normally dry, are now true runs. Rattling Creek trail is very wet and there's many sections of the trail that the water is running straight down it. The trail normally flows beautifully, but today its flowing with water so beware.

Trail Update - Icy Roads and Some Snow

2011-02-20T15:54:00.002-05:00

There's still snow at spots on the trails and the fire roads and snowmobile trails are thick ice. I can't tell you not to ride 'cause there were some hearty souls on the trails today; but I didn't last an hour on the ice and in the 4-6ish inches of snow in some of the low lying, shady spots. Its like a different world in the woods. I left home with temps near 40 and it was 28 degrees in the forest. I'll keep you posted.

The Last Bash - Setting a Record

2011-02-09T10:20:00.002-05:00

Registration is open less than a week and we are 1/3 filled-up with attendees already for the Last Bash. If that's any indication of the attendance this year, we'll be bursting at the seams! Rick's been making his list(s) and checking them twice. We're sure to have all details covered with Mr. Brown finalizing specifics. What the hell -- maybe we'll even throw in an extra Porta-John this year. It IS the Last Bash - so we need to go out with a Bang! :)

The Last BASH - 2011

2011-02-04T05:55:00.003-05:00

It's official. The final episode. The last chapter. The end to the BASH is near. This September will mark the last year for the annual BASH. After 12 years of organizing, we're calling it quits. There's a couple changes for this year: no Chili cook-off on Friday night. Our entries were down; thus, not enough food! We're tossing around other ideas for Friday night dinner -- maybe a pizza party in the bunk house. And there's no Rock's Ridge nor Hill Climb for Sunday. It's a free day to do as you please. Everything else is the same -- Camp Muckleratz, Gonder's Grub House on Saturday evening, entertainment both Friday and Saturday, the beverage wagon, organized rides on Saturday, same $45.00 registration. Oh, and we're giving you a t-shirt with registration for the LAST BASH too. Can you guess what will be on it?? So sign up here and be one of the 150 final attendees.

Snow Reports for Rattling Creek Trails

2010-12-07T11:14:00.001-05:00

I'll try to keep you all posted on snow and whether the trails are covered or not. Check back for updates on the sidebar on the right - "Trail Update" - for the latest. enjoy the Winter!

Hunting Season is Upon Us

2010-10-12T19:30:00.004-04:00

It's hunting season. Check the schedule here and be cautious of hunters on the trails. They like to use them too.

And pictures from the BASH are on the sidebar under BASH. Enjoy!

Where There's Smoke, There's Fire

2010-09-22T07:22:00.001-04:00

They say rules are made to be broken. During the BASH we tell people to do this, don’t do that, blah, blah, blah !!! Yeah I know, rules. Well the one rule that someone broke this past weekend as they left the camp grounds was the “empty your ashes in the big bon fire pit in the center of the field. I guess someone was just in too much of a hurry to carry their ashes the 100 yards to the ash pit. Instead they dumped them under a very large hemlock/pine tree. Now if you know anything about pines and hemlocks is that they drop their needles, small branches and bark around the base of the tree. The bows of the tree keep this area dry even after a nice rain. It builds up into a nice thick, dry tinder, just right for starting a fire. As the camp owner and I sat talking in front of the camp, the last of the BASHers had left at least a half hour ago by this time, he saw some smoke. We went down to investigate. I carried a shovel and rake figuring what we would find. There it was…smoke coming from the base of a tree….. hot ashes under a big pine, smoldering away. The bows of the tree were hanging on the ground so you really couldn’t see the spot where the ashes were dumped without actually wading in thru the hanging branches. Looks like it was dumped from a fire pan of some sort because there was no evidence of a spot where there was a fire on the ground, no burnt spot around the site there anywhere. I shoveled the hot ashes and small pieces of burnt wood out onto the stones there at this particular camping spot. Then we headed back to the camp to get some water to throw on the spot where the ashes were smoldering under the tree just to make sure it was out completely. By the time we walked back to the camp and rounded up a big pot…. there is was once more…..A good amount of smoke coming from the same spot. I grabbed the pot and filled it with water and ran down only to find a hot spot still trying to catch the dry needles and bark under the tree. Had we been in a hurry to get out of there and not hung out talking for a bit those carelessly tossed hot ashes would have gone unnoticed and most likely sat smoldering until they started a fire…. and at best…… burned some trees… At worst, with the dry conditions it could have burned the place to the ground. Some rules are too costly to break. Please empty your ashes in the fire pit !!! Thanks You !!

An Impressive Vid of the RC Trails

2010-09-03T04:50:00.001-04:00

You Rattling Creek Trail groupies are gonna love this film. A big shout-out and thanks to Sir Bikes A Lot for creating this impressive video/web page on the trails. Suuuuhhhhhwwweeettt.

TWO Weeks to the BASH!

2010-09-01T06:59:00.002-04:00

And only one week to register! We're just slightly over 100 and if registrations for this are anything like bike races, folks are waiting until the very last minute to see what the weather will be and then register. Sorry we had to close registration a 8 days before the BASH starts, but we have to get the chicken order in. Register!

3 Weeks to the BASH!

2010-08-22T20:47:00.007-04:00

It's BASH time! The registrations are rolling in and it's time to get you guys PUMPED for PARTY! We have about 3 weeks to go and have 94 folks registered. Those final 56 spots will fill up real quick. We are closing registration on September 8 (two weeks) because that's the date the chicken orders go in to Gonder's Grubb House. So you have only two weeks to register to be guaranteed your chicken. Swag is in our hands and ready for the swag table for Saturday evening's swag drawing (you are automatically entered for the drawing when you register). And many of you will be pleased to hear AccouCo is BACK on Friday night. These were the two acoustic guys that ROCKED. Check them out here. Saturday evening's entertainment is Blacktooth Grin.

The other BIG change is Sunday morning -- no King and Queen of Rock's Ridge. Instead, we're having the "IRONCLIMBER" competition. Unhuh-- the fastest person to the top of the GATE at Ironmine/Wolf Pond road wins. And what do you win? A nice set of bike nuts. Hey… if you have balls enough to conquer that climb at a break-neck speed, you deserve the balls! Pink for the girl and blue for the boy.
Here's a quick run-down of the weekend's festivities:

Thursday - 5:00 - Gate Opens to Camp Muckleratz
Friday - all day - informal rides (maps provided)
Friday - 6:00 pm. The great Chile' cook-off and micro-brew exchange
Friday - 6:00ish (?) - AccuCo - Acoustic Duo (excellent)

Saturday - 9:30 am - Organized group rides (maps provided if you prefer to go on your own)
Saturday - 4:00 - Taste testing begins - The Beverage Wagon will make its return

Saturday - 5:00 p.m. - Chicken Dinner is Served - Gonder's Grubbhouse!
Saturday - 7:00 p.m - Swag Drawing
Saturday - 8:00 ish - Band - Blacktooth Grin

Sunday - 10:00 am - Ironclimber competition

No swap table this year. You are welcome to set up a table at your camp and sell your wares. Link worth checking out (maybe stop and grab something on the way??)
Gonder's Grub House!

Trailwork Underway

2010-08-11T18:16:00.003-04:00

The trail gods are hard at work and you may notice some brush cutting going on. Thank Steve Miller when you see him and I heard through the grapevine Zach Adams is planning to get weed wacking happy. Both men are prepping the trails for the Rattling Weekend coming up next weekend. Beyond the closeness of brush, the trails are in incredible shape -- dry, dry, dry. The woods could use some rain just like everywhere else. Still a couple logs here and there, but hey, why dumb down the trails? They are good jumping practice. So be aware, next weekend is the Rattling Weekend with a 25K trail run on Saturday, August 21 and a 25 or 50 mile mountain bike race on Sunday, August 22.

DCNR organized Trail Work Session this Saturday

2010-07-07T08:55:00.002-04:00

DCNR has organized a trail work session for this Saturday in Weiser State Forest. Details below. They plan to re-route part of a snowmobile trail near a leased hunting camp. I believe this would be Preserve line trail. Meeting time and place is 8:30 am at the Stone House as you enter Weiser State forest. More info below.

"i know its short notice but i just found out about it last evening. brian price is putting together a work day this saturday to reroute a trail in weiser state forest. we are to meet at the stone building at 8:30. attached is his suggestions. if you are available to help it would be great. dee, would you please forward this to the members of trail blazers. thanks.

From: brprice@state.pa.us> To: jimbob113@hotmail.com> Date: Tue, 6 Jul 2010 14:34:23 -0400> Subject: RE: Friends Meeting> > Jim> > equipment for workday> > 1. Work Gloves and boots> 2. Long Pants Try to keep the clothing cool, light colors> 3. Bug Spray and Sun Screen> 4. Pack a lunch. we will have water. We are working on providing some food, but please bring a lunch in case> 5. Any possibile chainsaws would be appreciated.> > Thank You Jim. I've talked to the 49ers Camping association. The do many activities with the Boy Scouts. They are very greatful for you help.> > My cell number is 570-449-4121. Please let me know about the meeting and thanks again.> > Brian

Trail Work Follow-up

2010-06-29T13:31:00.005-04:00

Thanks to those of you that said you'd help out with trail work and even more thanks to those of you who are already out there doing it as you ride. The Rattling 50 Marathon (not an event of RCST) is coming up on August 22 and the event promoter, Mike Kuhn, is planning to organize a trail work session to prepare for the marathon, so I'll let him know of your interest. We've asked the question before and will ask again: Is there anyone willing to take on regularly scheduling trail work and the be the RCST trail guru? Due to other activities and time constraints, Keith, Rick and I are no longer able to commit to this function of RCST like we have in the past (thus, you see what the trails are starting to look like). So please, if you wanna organize and lead trail maintenance sessions, let us know! rebjsw@epix.net Thanks so much.

Question on Trail Maintenance

2010-06-22T20:33:00.002-04:00

If a trail maintenance session or two was organized, would you come? There's been mention there are some tight brush spots and someone is offering to organize a maintenance session, but he'll need help. How many will help?? (leave a comment, please). Thanks so much.

BASH 2010 Prep Well Underway

2010-06-14T19:08:00.002-04:00

Keith is doing is Bashly duty and lining up bands and refreshments, while Rick lines up other goodies -- dumpster, porta-potties, supplies, swag, etc. Jill confirmed Camp Muckleratz and Gonder's Grub house and registrations are rolling in. We're hoping for a repeat of other years, hopefully minus the rain this year. As it gets closer, we might contact some of your that offered to help out to firm up your duties Bash weekend. Thanks for the offer!

The Old Website Is Going Down - No More Memberships

2010-05-06T07:08:00.004-04:00

As an FYI, if any of you have links to www.rcst1.org, I'd suggest removing them 'cause that website is going to dissappear shortly. We no longer have the software to update and this BLOG serves the purpose well since we do not make a ton of updates and the club is not nearly as active as years past. The other major change with the club is NO MORE MEMBERSHIPS TO RCST. Since the BASH generates enough funding to keep the trail maintenance going, memberships are going away also. We are going get the map PDFd and provide it on the Blog for anyone to download. Now some of you will say why not hook up with other groups that do memberships for you? Like the Friends of Weiser, or even IMBA? We do not see the need -- the BASH covers the basic funding needs to maintain the trails.

Memorial Weekend Ride - Show and Go - BYOF. Sunday, May 30

2010-04-29T06:30:00.004-04:00

A dedicated RCSTer had a great idea for the Memorial Weekend Ride -- show and go/bring your own grill/food. Rick Begley plans to be there with his posse and he'll likely have his grill. The group usually starts at 9:00ish from the Minnich Hit Picnic area. So feel free to show up, ride, and bring your own munchies/drinks for afterwards. The date is Sunday, May 30, 2010. Have fun!

Annual Memorial Day Ride Cancelled

2010-04-26T07:27:00.003-04:00

Unless someone is interested in organizing the Annual Memorial Day Ride that's been held for the past seven years, the ride is cancelled. Keith didn't ride last year and its likely Rick nor Jill will not ride this year (other plans for that weekend). If someone IS interested, let us know and we'll repost the event is happening. e-mail me at rebjsw@epix.net and we'll let folks know. We continue to look for folks to step up and take over organizing events/rides, etc on a permanent basis.

Turkey Season Starts Saturday 4-24-10

2010-04-21T06:54:00.002-04:00

Junior Turkey hunting starts this Saturday so beware of kids and parents/grandparents in the woods on Saturday. From the PA Game Commission Website:

SPRING GOBBLER (Bearded bird only): Special season for eligible junior hunters, with required license, and mentored youth – April 24, 2010. Only 1 spring gobbler may be taken during this hunt.
SPRING GOBBLER (Bearded bird only): May 1-31, 2010. Daily limit 1, season limit 2. (Second spring gobbler may only be taken by persons who possess a valid special wild turkey license.)

Also, the monstrous tree at the top of Rattling Creek Trail is now gone. We'll keep plugging away at what we know are nuisance trees that need cut out. As an FYI, we're letting many this time around so you can practice your log hopping skills. If you know of trees that definitely need the chainsaw, please leave a comment. Thanks!

Trail Update 4-16-10

2010-04-16T07:02:00.002-04:00

Trails are in good shape except for the occassional tree across the trail here and there. We're still seeing signs of you guys getting your handsaws out and clearing trail debris -- thank you! Most of the treefall is rideable, but there's one or two that we'll be getting the chainsaw on when we get time -- maybe this weekend. Rugged Trail was cleared of all treefall about 3 weeks ago. The trails are still tight at many spots with underbrush (mainly huckleberry bushes), but after riding some trails in Michaux this past weekend, I'm not so sure tightness is such a bad thing. Right now its not an issue -- possibly once everything is in full leaf and it rains there will be some wet legs/feet when riding. But hey - it's mountain biking! Enjoy.

Friends of Weiser State Forest Group Forming

2010-03-25T20:02:00.004-04:00

Jim Theurer is looking for other groups to help out with the Freinds of Weiser Group they are trying to get going. He needs hikers, bikers and equestrians to make it work. Rick, from RCST will likely attend, but we sure could use some other involvement from the club. Here are the details from Mr. Theurer:

Our next meeting for the Friends of Weiser state forest will be held Wednesday April 14 at 6:30 in the park office at Haldeman tract. Marci Mowery from PA Parks & Forests Foundation will be there to tell us what we need to do to organize under their umbrella. What that will do for us is it will put us under their 501c plan so any donations will be tax deductible to the donor. And we would also be eligible to apply for grants. They will also handle all money for us. But we must meet certain requirements which she will explain. But one of the requirements is that we have a diverse organization made up of hikers, bikers, horsemen & anyone else who might use our state forest. So if you know anyone who might be interested in joining us please invite them. Please let Jim know of groups so he can invite them also. If you have any questions or concerns please let me know. Jim Theurer, 717-433-8694 or mailto:jimbob113@hotmail.com">jimbob113@hotmailthanks.
JIM THEURER

Trail Update 3-23-10

2010-03-23T06:47:00.002-04:00

Trail gods, we love you! And you know who you are -- the riders who carry hand saws and trimmers and will take the time to stop and remove a tree or two. THANK YOU!! It's a huge help to all that ride and I can guarantee all that ride are thankful to you also. Rick walked Rugged on Sunday with the chainsaw and removed the trees so Rugged is good to go. There are still some trees down on all the other trails, but we'll slowly get at them. Everything is drying out nicely and besides the trees, the trails are looking good.

March 14 Trail Update - Post Snow Melt and Wind

2010-03-14T16:12:00.003-04:00

Be prepared kids, the trails are clear of snow but by no means clear to ride. There's water running down the trails at spots, a ton of twigs, branches and trees (many you can't ride -- you have to get off), and you know the brush that makes the trails so tight? Well the snow laid it down at spots on the trails. So your rides the next couple weeks will be met with a lot of debris on the trails and a lot of dismounting. I'd suggest taking a pruner along on the ride and doing a little trail maintenance if you can. If anyone wants to borrow any of the club equipment (chainsaw, brush hog, etc), please let Rick or Keith know and you are welcome to organize a trail day. Not sure when we'll get at it... it may be quite a while. So please keep alert for tree fall.

Snow on the Trails Yet - It'll be Awhile

2010-03-06T17:58:00.003-05:00

It appears there's still about 8 inches of snow on the trails and the roads leading through the woods are not cleared. Both Lykens road and White Oak are snow covered and packed from the snowmobiles. It'll likely be at least another week until things melt, but even then the trails won't be rideable -- they'll be way, way too soft. So please, have patience and wait until things melt and dry out.

Even More Snow and a Longer Wait

2010-02-27T05:32:00.001-05:00

We were on the dividing line of a blizzard or nothing, and we got the blizzard. There's maybe another 8-10 inches of snow on the trails and a bunch of drifting at spots. So the wait will be longer until we see dirt again.

Skiing the Rattling Creek Trails

2010-02-14T07:57:00.003-05:00

The season is upon us and finally we have enough snow to get on the singletrack in Weiser State Forest and the Lykens Watershed, a.k.a the Rattling Creek trails. It usually takes at least a foot of snow to cover the rocks and yup, there's a minimum of a foot on the trails. The snowmobiles are out in force, so beware on the snowmobile trails. I was getting a kick out of how the snowmobilers gear up -- not much different than a biker having to have everything match. The snowmobile suits, gloves, boots all color coordinated with the snowmobile. Funny. It's actually nice to finally see the snowmobile trails getting some use for their intended purpose. The snowmobiles have the trails groomed nicely for diagonal striding, but no skating -- too bumpy. And the singletrack is awesome for you backcountry skiers. You'll need someone to break trail, but once that is done, the skiing is good. The parking lots are plowed at Lukes Trails, the East end, and the snowmobile parking lot near the Weiser headquarters. You can't drive into the forest on any of the gravel roads; all the roads are packed by the snowmobilers and aren't plowed. Enjoy!

Trail Workshop Scheduled

2010-01-29T14:13:00.002-05:00

Attention:
Bikers, Hikers, and Horseback Riders!
The Pennsylvania Equine Council
PRESENTS A:
1-DAY TRAIL STEWARDSHIP WORKSHOP
WITH BUD AND GWEN WILLS
Saturday, March 13, 2010
8:00 AM-4:00 PM

Where: Park Office, Haldeman Tract, Weiser State Forrest, near Elizabethville

Registration - 8:00 – 8:15
Morning Session – 8:15-12:00, Lunch – 12:00 – 12:45, Afternoon Session – 12:45 – 4:00

WHY: the Friends of Weiser State Forrest have contacted the PA Equine Council requesting assistance in maintaining non-motorized shared-use trails. The Friends of Weiser wish to keep the trails open to all users and would like all users to become involved in maintaining these trails. Without your assistance, trails and access could be severely restricted or possibly eliminated.

WHO SHOULD ATTEND: All outdoor enthusiasts (particularly hikers, mountain-bikers and equestrians) concerned about the future of and access to recreational public lands.

WORKSHOP CONTENT: Trail layout, construction, maintenance techniques, tools and their proper usage, and an introduction to Leave no Trace Skills, and the Ride Smart concept.

COST: FREE!! Donuts & coffee will be provided in the morning as well as lunch.

REGISTRATION: Pre-registration is required for materials preparation

INFORMATION REQUESTED FOR PRE-REGISTRATION: Name, address, telephone number, email,
and interests (hiker, biker, horse enthusiast, scouts, DCNR, etc.).

DIRECTIONS:
From Harrisburg rte 81take 322 west 11.3 miles to rte 147 north, take 147 north 6.4 miles to the only red light in Halifax, from the red light take 225 north 9.3 miles, at the Weiser State Forest sign turn right on Mountain House Road. Once on Mountain House Road follow the signs to Weiser. Go .6 miles and make the first left onto Dietrich Road, go .6 miles to the stop sign & turn right, still on Dietrich go .9 miles to the Y and bear right on White Oak Road into Weiser State Forest. Go past the maintenance sheds and the snowmobile parking lot, the office is on your left.

For more info and/or to pre-register contact: Jim Theurer, 717-433-8694 or jimbob113@hotmail.com

Note: If you've been thinking about getting involved in trailbuilding or helping RCST with trailwork/maintenance, we recommend you attend this workshop.

2010 BASH Registration is now open

2010-01-19T11:43:00.002-05:00

We're going techy this year and registration for the BASH is now through bikereg.com. The link is at the right, or you can go here to get registered. Attendance is still limited to 150, so get your registration in before September 1 (maybe earlier than that if there's a rush on entries).

Trail Maintenance

2010-01-19T08:10:00.002-05:00

We finally had a chance to start hiking trails to clear trees. Doc Smith had three trees, two of significant size that were not rideable and are now clear. The one tree had both Doc Smith AND Rattling Creek blocked. We'll keep plugging away on the trails as time permits. Don't worry, we won't "dumb down" the trails too much. We're using Jill's log-hopping skills as the gauge. If she can't get over it, it's going.

A Couple Updates

2010-01-17T07:29:00.003-05:00

DCNR contacted us about vandalism at the gate on top of the mountain, near the hang-glider launch. Did we see or hear anything? If any of you see anything or anyone suspicious, please let us know so we can pass it on to DCNR. Us users truly are their eyes and ears as they simply don't have the manpower to be out and about on every trail like we are.

We hear there are trees down. Don't worry, we'll get at them! Rick and I are planning a hike with the chainsaw on Doc Smith to start the clearing process.

There's going to be a trail building class sometime in the spring. The class is being coordinated by the Equine groups and the PA Equine Assoc is presenting the class. We'll post more info as it becomes available.

FYI - August 22 is the Rattling 50 Marathon. In the past, the club has not participated in this event because the majority of members had concerns of trail degradation from a race. That was three years ago and times have changed with more users on the trail (horses). If anyone wants to help out with the Marathon, please let me know and I'll let the organizer know.

Snowfall - Dec 31, 2009

2009-12-31T12:24:00.002-05:00

It was about 2 inches or so we're guessing. Your choice on to ride or not to ride.

12-27-09 Trail Update

2009-12-27T06:33:00.002-05:00

The rain washed the majority of the snow away but there's a LOT of run-off and very wet conditions. We didn't get out on all the trails, but there's sure to be tree fall also with the wind that accompanied the rain all day Saturday. So watch for wet spots, run off, washed creek crossings (maybe - not sure, but possible), and downed trees. Enjoy the day!

Snow. Snow. Snow. Ski. Ski. Ski.

2009-12-20T06:04:00.002-05:00

It's beautiful! The trails are open for skiing. We had about 8 inches which should put down a real nice base for back country skiing. The best skiing location is Lukes Trail on the top of the mountain. The snowmobilers usually have it packed nicely and from Lukes you can get to the rest of the trail system to check things out. Rick and I usually run out of gas by the time we do Lukes and Rim to the hang glider launch, so we end up heading back the same way we came. That's about a 3 hour tour on back country skis. If you are skating (yes, you can skate on Lukes and Rim because the snowmobiles groom things fairly nicely for skating), stay on the areas where the snowmobiles keep it packed. Have fun!

No Takers for RCST Trail Advocate

2009-11-26T17:34:00.003-05:00

We didn't get any takers for the Trail Advocacy Post for RCST. What will we do? Frank suggested a committee. But that would still require someone to take the lead. Anyone?

Help Wanted: RCST Trail Advocate

2009-11-19T10:17:00.001-05:00

RCST is looking for a trail advocate representative. Keith, Rick, nor myself no longer can dedicate the time to this and the club could use a fresh face in this area. I’m sure you noticed less and less trailwork sessions (although the trails really have been awesome and we have lots of members that will do a little trail work while going for a ride).

What the job involves:
o Attending bi-annual, statewide meeting of mountain bike clubs to hear/talk about trail advocacy.
o Working with DCNR and other users groups (equine/hikers) on organized trailwork sessions. Maybe be part of a “Friends” group of Weiser.
o Help organize trail work as needed (working with the Equine folks).
o Coordinate club members for trail work as needed.
o Follow IMBA’s guidelines on trail advocacy, trail building, trail maintenance.
o Communicate any info you receive with the club membership. That could be done through the BLOG (or maybe our soon-to-be redesigned website).

This is volunteer work, but if you have a passion for mountainbiking and the RCST trails, its well worth the time and effort. If you do it right (you are calling the shots!), you’ll get to RIDE every time there’s a meeting or trail work session.

Please let Jill know ( rebjsw@epix.net) of your interest and she’ll take care of connecting you with the appropriate folks (i.e., IMBA, DCNR, and Jim Theurer of the Equine Assoc to start). There’s already a session underway by Jim to have someone take a look at Preserve line trail. He’s also planning to have someone show them some trail building techniques so this is a perfect time for those of you wanting to get involved to join ranks with Jim, et.al. Thanks!

Meeting with DCNR and Equine Groups Held

2009-11-18T12:23:00.002-05:00

DCNR called a meeting between the Rattling Creek Singletrackers and and the Equine folks. DCNR wanted to simply get folks together and talk about trail use, maintenance, and next steps for trails within Weiser State Forest. The Lykens Watershed trails (Rattling Creek, Doc Smith, Fawn Kill, Rugged, and Hopback) were not discussed and are not part of the trails the Equine groups ride. Those in attendance were Keith Whitcomb, Rick Brown (and Jill) from RCST; Jim Theurer, "Dee", and another gal (forgot her name - doh!) from the Equine groups; and Nick Zulli and Mark Deibler from DCNR. It was a good discussion that primarily focused on trail maintenance and the horse groups were enthusiastic to help with trail work. So much so, that Jim took the lead and will proceed with contacting Bud Wills of the PA Equine Council (Frank McGuire works closely with Mr. Wills on trail usage) to have him come to Weiser and look at Preserve line trail for a possible re-route. While the portion of Preserve line to be re-routed (the creek end) isn't a regularly used trail of the mountain bikes, it IS a primary trail for the horses and there's some concern the trail is too much on the "fall line" and erosion will occur eventually. DCNR agreed this has been a problem for years. The equine folks asked DCNR if regular trail maintenance could be set up and DCNR stated they do not have the manpower to do such maintenance. DCNR depends on folks like us -- the users -- to tell them what is needed and volunteer the hours (Like RCST has been doing for many years. We did talk about regular sessions of the past). DCNR commented we probably know the trails better than anyone and rely on us for any issues that arise. I'd like to thank DCNR for recognizing the work RCST put into the trail network. "If we didn't have you guys, there probably wouldn't be a trail system today." The Equine groups asked DCNR for better maps and that may not happen too soon due to budgetary constraints. DCNR also commented they would love to see a "Friends of Weiser" group formed consisting of all of us to regularly maintain trails. Not sure what the program is -- I'll have to research a little more.

Fall Trail Conditions and Update

2009-10-31T04:25:00.003-04:00

With all the rain we've been having, the trails are super soft and have water standing in some spots. Wolf Pond is full and overflowing and the flow goes through Matter Snowmobile. All the springs are flowing full, thus the small stream crossings are medium stream crossings right now (waterfall on Doc Smith). It's actually relaxing and nice being in the woods on a wet day and hearing all the springs flowing. All you hear is water. No phones, cars, media, or people. Just the water. Very soothing. Even the hunters are quiet right now -- its archery season! There were several trucks parked throughout Weiser.

FALL FLAME RIDE 2009 CANCELLED

2009-10-15T09:21:00.002-04:00

Thanks to mom nature, the Fall Flame Ride on the Rattling Creek Trails this Sunday, October 18 is CANCELLED. See you all next year.

Hunting Season is Upon Us - Refrain from Saturday Riding

2009-10-02T09:10:00.002-04:00

We've (RCST) always respected hunting season and ask you to also respect the hunters and NOT ride on Saturdays. The National Wild Turkey Federation folks have already made a donation to the RCST for trail building. Why? Because they too like the open trails to drag out their kill. Tomorrow starts archery season and if I'm not mistaken, there's something in nearly every week from now until January sometime. The full hunting schedule is here.

More BASH 10th Anniversary Pics

2009-09-29T08:10:00.003-04:00

More BASH pictures are up from the famous Uncle Don (Don Pagano). Very nice shots Don!

More 2009 BASH Pics

2009-09-17T19:12:00.001-04:00

Courtesy Dean, the Bikeman. Thanks Dean! Nice shots.

2009 BASH Pics by Dean the Bikeman

2009 BASH Recap

2009-09-15T19:54:00.002-04:00

What a weekend! We’re finally getting a chance to regroup and have a little time to recap the 10th Annual RCST Mountain Bike Bash. First, thanks to all of YOU for making it happen. It rained all day Friday – no it poured all day Friday – but that didn’t stop folks from contenting themselves with other extra-curricular activities rather than riding. The rain didn’t stop the Chili Cook off, the beer wagon tapping, nor the Jay DeJesus skills clinic. 12 folks prepared a pot of Chili for everyone to vote on and in the end; Don Olson won another “Chile” trophy. Runners up were Karen Egolf and Scott Christina. Saturday started with dry skies and wet trails, but nearly everyone headed out anyway for a day on the trails. The skies broke lose again in the afternoon while many were on their way back to camp so most folks were “looking awesome dude” coated with mud. Saturday evening festivities started with the famed Gonder’s Grubhouse chicken dinner at 5:30, followed by the very entertaining and soothing acoustic duo, Accouco. We want them back next year!!! The prize drawing went off at about 8:00 and the table was non-too short on quality prizes. Camelbacks, a trainer, a bike stand, bike computers, bike chains, sunglasses, Forze bars, Dirt Rag glasses and the prized possession of the 10th annual bash – specially created 10” anniversary GRIZ mugs. Sunday’s Rock’s ridge contest was questionable with the weather; so we shortened it so folks could ride – and ride the trails they did ‘cause only 4 folks showed up to battle for the crowns. In the end, Brad Doxtater unseated the reigning King, Darrin Kreis for the King trophy. Yours truly, Jill Wiest, was “the only girl with balls” to attempt it and took home the queen honors. This was the last year for the Rock’s Ridge King and Queen – we’ll replace it with something equally fun next year. The rain took a toll on Camp Muckleratz this year and the field endured a lot of wet conditions leaving a very rutty entrance down the middle of the field. The land owner was happy we did the best we could and raked the muddy sections, and he told Rick, “what I should have is a roller.” Rick was more than happy to share his roller with the Camp caretaker. We haven't confirmed the dates yet with Ken the Camp caretaker, but we're looking at September 16, 17, 18, and 19. We'll confirm when we confirm Muckleratz availability.

2009 BASH Pics are Rolling In

2009-09-15T19:48:00.002-04:00

Here's the first group of BASH pics -- thank you Jon Pratt!

10th Annual RCST BASH Recap (a short one)

2009-09-14T08:20:00.003-04:00

We're too exhausted to do a thorough recap at this point. Suffice it to say, it was yet another memorable event -- in more ways than one. It rained for 48 hours. The Acoustic guys, Accouco, were very well liked. All the kegs were kicked. The trails held up (sort of). The Rock's Ridge competition dwindled immensely this year -- 3 guys and a girl with balls -- could it be the wet rocks scared them away? Gonder's chicken was again awesome. 12 folks cooked up chili and Don Olson won (again!). We had a Friday night band for the first time. And that 48 hours of rain took a toll on the field and 6 tired souls raked, shoveled, and tamped the ruts back into place so the property owner wouldn't have a fit (we don't think he will). Thanks to everyone who made the BASH yet another success. But a special thank you to Shawn Withers, Trainwreck and Esther, Scott Corbin, Rick Begley, Rick, and Keith for toughing it out to the bitter end and helping with the final clean up of ashes, fire rings (they had to be dismantled), and tossed firewood (it went back to the wood pile), and filling in those muddy ruts. Tom Gibson and Mike Bega get an honorable mention too for helping moving those monstrous picnic tables back to their starting point. And a thanks to all of you who helped toss trash in the dumpster on the way out. Feel free to post your comments - we'd love to here them.

We're Off to the BASH!

2009-09-10T05:01:00.002-04:00

The Rattling Creek Single Trackers BASH organizers are heading off to Camp Muckleratz today so don't try to contact us anymore -- we ain't home! The gates open at 4:00 pm. Everything is ready for good time. The weather? Don't worry about it -- even a hurricane (Ivan!! in 2004?) didn't "dampen" our spirits. We rode, partied, and had a good time even with a downpour. It's all fun and that's what the BASH is all about. See you at Camp!

Four Days and Counting -- And Princess Is Coming!

2009-09-07T17:55:00.002-04:00

We thought for sure Princess had the weekends mixed up and was thinking the BASH was the weekend of the 17-20; but today we got an e-mail... "Hey, I'll be there." Princess is one of the few folks that have been at every single BASH - all 10 of them. What would the BASH be without our dear princess? Making messes in the kitchen, lounging in the hammock, hanging clothes from the fan to dry (yes, while it was going), trying to eat a pizza that was water soaked from melted ice. What a princess! We're pretty much done preparing and have started to load the vans (Rick is anal like that -- he "packs" the vans to make the best use of space). "It's like a reunion man." We're ready.

"Groups" of Horses on Singletrack -- Again.

2009-09-06T19:50:00.002-04:00

A "Wise" soul from Michaux commented if you don't nip in the bud, they'll be back, and he was right... the horses were out in force again today on the Weiser single track. Rick saw 7 of them in one group, and another 2 were riding in another group, and on our way out of the woods, we saw about 6 more. The snowmobile parking lot had about a dozen trailers. And the trails? They continue to show signs of degradation. Matter, Shale Run, and Preserve Line are the worse. It's been dry all week, yet these trails are wet, muddy at spots, and very soft. This is a direct result of the horse event earlier this year. These trails will continue to degrade unless DCNR opts to keep the horses off the single track. Surprisingly, they asked Keith when we could sit down with them along with the horses folks and work this out. So it appears there's a meeting in the future between DCNR, us, and the equine group to hammer out what IS ok and what isn't. I'm looking forward to that because its very sad to see all of our hard work get chewed up so badly.

The Swag List -- Stop your Drooling!

2009-09-05T05:51:00.002-04:00

We pretty much have an exclusive bike shop sponsor this year -- MOUNTAINSIDE SKI AND SPORTS! Its not that we were dissing anyone else, it just worked out to get most of the swag from Mountainside. Mountainside is located in Mechanicsburg and they double as THE place to go for downhill ski equipment too. They helped us out with an incredible list of swag:

Park Bike Stand
Kinetic Trainer (better than Cyclops)
Chains
Chain Cleaner kits
3 different kinds of sets of pedals including egg beaters and Shimano 540
3 bike computers
4 or 5 camelbaks
Jersey(s)
tubes (including 29 inch!)
Dirt Rag Pint glasses (12)
Custom Griz mugs (8)
Water bottles

Massage Anyone??? How 'Bout at the BASH?

2009-09-05T05:34:00.003-04:00

We're delighted to have a Holistic Health Practitioner at the BASH this year and she'll be offering massages to those interested. Melissa Doxtater of Good Karma Better Health specializes in things like energy therapies, massage, nutritional counseling and health and well being and she'll be set up at the BASH with not only the massages, but also some organic health products too. Visit her website -- its interesting stuff.

No One Will Be Turned Away

2009-09-04T09:49:00.002-04:00

Even though the chicken and t-shirts have been ordered (with a handful of extras) and reserved for the pre-registrants, we want you to know we won't turn anyone away from enjoying the festivities of the BASH. You may not get food or a t-shirt, but you sure can still come ride and enjoy the camaraderie the BASH is known for. How could we deny anyone from having a good time!? At least that's the attitude of the organizers... its all fun and good and we want YOU to enjoy the party. "It's like a reunion man...." Please be sure to still e-mail us if you plan to show up even though the chicken/t-shirts are gone -- there will still be a charge for the weekend for camping/raffle drawing/etc. rebjsw@epix.net

Ride on!

Info for the BASH Virgins

2009-09-02T14:06:00.004-04:00

Boy are you first-timers in for a treat! I'm sure by now you've heard about all the hoopla from your friends on how great of a time the BASH is. They weren't kidding. It's laid back and easy-going - not a lot of rules. So here's some basic info if its your first time.
Gates open at 4:00 on Thursday.

Drive all the way to the end of the driveway to a cinder block building -- that's registration and check-in. You'll pass two pavilions -- that's where the chili cook off and the Sat evening dinner is will be, along with the prize drawings and maybe the band.
There's no announcements or loud speakers saying what's going on -- so watch your clock for the times on the schedule of events and happenings.
They'll be a schedule at check-in, along with other goodies like:
Group rides. We try to post who is doing what kind of ride on Saturday, and that will be hanging in the bunkhouse to give you an idea of what kind of ride you might want to do.
We'll provide a black and white map so you can find your way on your own on Thurs eve and Friday. Only Saturday is organized rides unless we can find folks willing to lead a group or two on Friday.
A full kitchen is in the bunkhouse. Feel free to use it! You can cook if you want, the water is good to drink and fill up for rides, and the bunkhouse is where bagels and coffee are located for breakfast. There's a microwave and a nice gas stove and oven.
Porta-potties - there will be 5 this year, thanks to the generous donation of an un-named regular who thinks we never have enough.
Showers -- are primitive. Ricky Brown builds 3 "porta-showers" with curtains and we have a club member who supplies a water heater. So its actually not bad. But remember there's going to be about 200 people wanting to shower. So think that through. There's also a nice, private washroom in the bunkhouse with 3 bowls to wash, brush your teeth, change. Feel free to use that. One of my friends said they never "shower" at the BASH -- showering is over-rated. (???)
Camping - first come first served. No reserved spots. But don't fret - its BIG and there are lots of spaces. It's help yourself. If you don't want to tent camp, you're welcome to the bunkhouse which has about 40 bunk beds. There's usually about a dozen or so used during the BASH. Remember though -- its a CAMP. It has that wonderful campy smell to it :)
Saturday evening hoopla -- the Beer Wagon (yup, there's a WAGON with 4 or so taps on the side of it) is fired up about 4:00 ish (I think) and it's included in your registration fee so help yourself! Dinner arrives about 5:30ish and most folks bring a chair and sit under the pavilion and relax a little. About 7:00ish, Keith, Jill, and Rick do the raffle drawing. If you registered for the whole weekend, you're name is in the drawing. Other years we had prizes for everyone, but it took WAY too long so we cut the prizes back to about 40 or 50 NICE things. So many of you will walk away with a nice prize.
The Trails. Ahhhh... the best part. The trail system is about 27 miles total if you ride from camp. Riding from camp means a 2 mile, 800 foot elevation climb. But you get to come back DOWN that at the end of the ride, so its all good. We'll have black and white maps for you. Many folks drive to the top of the mountain to skip the climb and just go for the meat of the trails -- the oh-so-sweet singletrack. Some will ride Rock's Ridge over and over again to get ready for....
Rock's Ridge Contest on Sunday. It starts at 10:00 this year. You just show up at the Schreffler Trail end and get your number plate (a paper plate). The judges mark a start-point and end-point in the rockiest sections of the trail and YOU get to TRY to dead start and make it through the rocks. That's right -- no running start -- its a dead start and it ain't easy! But it sure is fun. Please tell the GIRLS to enter. We didn't have any last year and other years were sparse. Last year we had to give the queen trophy to the last place guy! He was such a trooper and had SUCH a good attitude. GIRLS -- ENTER THIS!! Its really fun.
Closing time. You gotta be out by 3:00 on Sunday! and we mean OUT by 3:00. Last year we had to rush some guys 'cause the camp owner was there to lock things up and he wasn't happy waiting around. So please respect the property owner and be out by 3:00.
Campfires. You are welcome to build them - but bring your own firewood. The camp is out of firewood this year. We're trying to locate some for the big bonfire in the middle, but that hasn't happened yet. When you are done for the weekend, the ashes need taken to the big bonfire in the middle and your ring must be covered over.

You'll get all this info at check-in too. Welcome!!!

RCST Chili Cook-off - Sept 11, 2009 6:00 pm

2009-09-02T09:48:00.001-04:00

Yup… we’re doing it again this year. Friday evening, September 11, 2009 at 6:00 begins the “contest” to see who is the creator of the best chili in Camp. It’s a simple thing… just brew up a pot of Chili, bring it to the pavilion between 5:30 and 6:00, and at 6:00 the troops start tasting them all and casting votes on which one they think is the best. There are no rules on what goes in the Chili. We keep it simple. Yes, meat competes against meatless – no holds barred. (BTW, a meatless chili was tied for 2nd last year.) And the judging is pretty simple too. Cast your vote by writing the number of your favorite chili on the piece of paper and throw it in the voting can between 6:00 and 7:00 pm. At about 7:15 or 7:30 (while you all enjoy swapping micro-brews), the top 3 winners will be announced with the winner taking home a specially made trophy (courtesy Reinhart Ironworks!) for the BASH Chili cook off. It’s all good fun. Chili creators are welcome to use the kitchen in the bunkhouse to cook up your chili. There’s a nice gas stove, ovens, and a microwave. There’s usually space in the frig to store your prepared Chili prior to the cook-off too. And here’s a tiny word of advice – make sure its heated up and ready for taste tasting at 6:00!!! I’ve seen some beautiful looking pots of chili go uneaten and not voted on because they were cold. Don’t let your creation fall into this “blah, it’s cold!” category! It coulda been a winner if only it was warm. So cook up some chili – there’s about 150 people waiting to taste it.

p.s. BTW, only make a normal “batch” – don’t make enough for 150 people! Folks will only take a taste of each pot so that pot should go a long way except when they love it and come back for more. Last year all of the pots were empty (if I remember correctly). There were 16 (?) pots. The year before there was 13. So bring along a pot of chili. Past winners “secret’ ingredients include beer and smoky chipotle peppers.

Jay de Jesus/EWR Bikes Skills Clinic at the BASH

2009-08-29T07:06:00.003-04:00

Oh is this going to be fun. Famed Jay de Jesus will be offering "Beginner/Intermediate Technical Skills Clinic by Jay de Jesus of EWR Bikes". They'll be two clinics at Camp Muckelratz -- one on Friday evening and one on Saturday morning before everyone heads out for a day of riding which is actually perfect 'cause you can use the new-found skills on the trail. We'll have exact times on the final schedule when you check in, but more than likely you won't miss when it's going on 'cause there will be a crowd around the cones and logs (which you also won't miss 'cause they will be near the entrance driveway somewhere). Here's what the clinic will involve:

1) bike set-up and body position
2) balance and stance
3) cornering
4) logs - general and uphill
5) bunnyhopping
6) whatever else we have time for

There will be a "course" set up at the camp for this clinic and it should be a ton of fun - and you just might learn a thing or two too!

2009 RCST BASH Final Days of Registration

2009-08-27T06:52:00.002-04:00

We're at the deadline for registrations for the 2009 10th anniversary BASH. If you haven't registered by now, you may miss the boat. We're calling in the chicken order tomorrow (Gonder's Grubhouse wanted two weeks notice) and the t-shirt orders are going in on Monday. At this point, PLEASE E-MAIL US IF YOU HAVEN'T SENT YOUR REGISTRATION. We need to know chicken flavors for tomorrow's (Friday, August 28) order placing. Our e-mail is rebjsw@epix.net And the t-shirt sizes are s,m,l,xl, and xxl.

Rattling Creek Single Trackers DCNR Volunteer Group of the Year 2006

2009-08-26T07:41:00.003-04:00

I think its ironic the RCST club was selected as volunteer group of the year in 2006 (I just found this press release on the DCNR website -- sorry for taking 3 years to share with you!!), and the DCNR folks in Weiser, Haldeman Tract aren't exactly cooperative these days when it comes to the club's views of sustainable trails. Interesting. Check out the press release! I'll be sure to share all this information with DCNR in November when I attend the PA Mountain Bike Summit to share our recent story of horses on the single track.

2009 RCST Mountain Bike BASH Schedule!

2009-08-25T07:41:00.003-04:00

Finally.... here's the 2009 schedule -- subject to change slightly (not the times except for Jay's clinics). We'll have the final, final schedule for you at check-in.

Thursday
4:00 pm – Gates and check-in/registration opens for the weekend
REGISTRATION AT BUNKHOUSE (end of driveway)
All evening – on-your-own riding

Friday
REGISTRATION IN BUNKHOUSE
7-8:30 am Coffee and Bagels in Bunkhouse
??? Jay DeJesus Mountain Bike Skills Clinic (time to be determined)
6:00 pm Chili Cookoff! (pavilion)
6:00 pm Micro-brew swap! (pavilion)
All day and evening; on-your-own riding

Saturday
7-8:30 am Coffee and Bagels in Bunkhouse
9:30 am Organized group rides depart (meet at bunkhouse/pavilion area) Note: Social/casual group(s) drive to starting location – have bike loaded and ready to roll at 9:30.
??? Jay DeJesus Mountain Bike Skills Clinic (time to be determined)
4:00 pm Troegs tasting begins (at pavilion)
5:30 pm Dinner at pavillion
7:00 pm Prize Drawings (at pavilion)
8:00 ish “Accouco” Acoustic duo – will set up near bonfire in camp area.

Sunday
7-8:30 am Coffee and Bagels in Bunkhouse
10:00 am Rock’s Ridge Competition – meet at Matter Trail end of Rock’s Ridge (off White Oak Road)
3:00 am Gates Close to campers. Please be out by 3:00. Respect the property owner!

All weekend
Swap Meet/Sale. Located at the registration area in the Bunk house. Bring your items you’d like to sell, tag (price), and put on the swap table. You never know what others might be interested in!

Scarlet O'Hara's Southern BBQ Menu

2009-08-25T07:14:00.009-04:00

We'd like to have Scarlet at the BASH, but we're having issues with getting power to her. Sooo.... be sure to visit her on Route 209, outside of Elizabethville. She's "parked" in the parking lot a Rita's, adjacent to the bowling alley, about 1/4 mile from Walmart (on opposite side of street from Walmart).

Rattling Creek Trail Woes

2009-08-23T18:38:00.005-04:00

Yesterday was the Rattling 50 Marathon and about 40-50 riders were on the trails. Luckily, it appeared the rain held off for them (I wasn't around to check things out unfortunately). I plan to contact Frank McGuire of IMBA and try to figure out how to deal with DCNR after seeing the trails today after the bike race. It's NOT the bikers that are the problem. I'm sorry to say the DCNR singletrack the horses were on are now super soft, and after a week of wet conditions and bike race on the singletrack, it's obvious the DCNR singletrack trails will not hold up. They were fairly soft and mucky with clear bike lines (muddy). The Rattling creek trail system hardly ever had a muddy spot for many years. Now, after a horse event, the single track the horses traveled on are showing signs of wear and tear. It was most evident after the bike race. Two years ago after the Rattling Marathon, club members purposely checked the trails the next day to make sure they were "ok", and they were. The only sign of 100 bikes on the trails were on Doc Smith on a fast turn or two. Hardly no evidence of 100 bikes racing. Yesterday? 50 bikes and it was obvious on the DCNR singletrack. Something was also very obvious on the Lykens Watershed trails -- trails the same 40-50 bike traveled on -- showed NO signs of a race. There was hardly a bike track and nothing but hard-packed, smooth trail. The watershed policy is no horses on watershed singletrack and it DOES make a huge difference on the singletrack. I'm hopeful there's a resolution -- but the vibes we are getting from DCNR is the trails are for everyone. Frank, help!

Hopping Along Again on Hopback!

2009-08-20T06:20:00.002-04:00

You regular riders know how Hopback trail gets grown in pretty bad and needs regular trimming. Well thanks to Ricky Brown and having too much vacation time on his hands, he spent 5 hours trimming Hop back 2 weeks ago. It's rideable again.

8-14-09 BASH Update - Get Your Registrations in!

2009-08-14T06:54:00.002-04:00

We're down to the final two weeks of getting everyone registered so you can get a t-shirt and chicken dinner. I mentioned in the previous post, the t-shirt guy and the chicken guys need the orders by the end of August. So click on the below link (previous post) and get registered! And for you vegetarians -- we just confirmed VEGAN lasagna this year; no eggs, no dairy, no meat. You'll get the lasagna in place of the chicken and still get all the fixings that come with the chicken (tater, cole slaw, roll). Keith confirmed two acoustic guys for the Saturday evening entertainment. You asked and you received. Folks were not happy with the bands and the suggestion was made for something a little more camper-friendly (at the campsites), so these guys will be down by the campsites on Saturday evening rather than sitting under the pavillion all night. Lastly, Keith was contacted by a gal who has a food truck and wondered if we'd be interested in her setting up for the weekend. We're still working out the details on that and will let folks know via e-mail if confirmed. She sells things like pulled pork, BBQ, eggs, etc -- the normal "food truck" types of things. Might be nice for people who don't really want to camp-cook. Fun stuff! It's all coming together -- just like other years. Gonna be a good time again.

10th Anniversary BASH T-shirts -- Need Your Registration by Aug 31

2009-08-03T10:29:00.003-04:00

The t-shirt maker will need our order for the special BASH 10th Anniversary t-shirts by September 1. Sooo….. we need to have your registration in our mailbox by the 31st. So if you want a shirt get registered ASAP !! We may, (or may not) order some extra shirts in whatever sizes, so if you register after Aug 31st there are two possibilities. (1)you may get a shirt, that may (or may not) fit. Or....(2) you may not get a shirt at all.

So please get your registration and preferred t-shirt size to us by Aug 31. Registration info can be found at the RCST website BASH page. Thanks! Jill

Checkin The Trails

2009-07-31T08:16:00.002-04:00

If you get out riding this weekend on the Rattling Creek Trails, we'd appreciate your assessment of trails (the trails the horses were on last weekend... Shale Run, Preserve Line, Matter, Wolf Pond, and Rock's Ridge far West) if you could take a moment and comment to this post. Keith (yup Keith!), Rick (Yup, Rick too! Neither have been riding much) and myself will do some riding this weekend to see how things are to get ready for the BASH. Of course, we need to see how Shale Run and Preserve Line held up to heavy rain this week, now that the trails are rototilled. Rick is predicting a nice washing off of topsoil at spots with bare rocks showing through. We'll check it out and let you know. Let us know what you think of Shale run. Thx.

A First Hand Rider's Assessment of "Horse Trails"

2009-07-29T06:56:00.003-04:00

I decided to be totally objective when making my assessment of the singletrack the horses were on this weekend. Forget what's been said, forget what's been written, and simply ride and see for myself. This is Rick's 4th day in a row he's been at the trails looking them over. You've read his opinions and of course DCNR's assessment -- now its my turn.

I've been on dozens and dozens of all types of trails in all types of conditions and yes, there IS some damage, but not significant (as DCNR stated) -- YET (more on that shortly). What came to mind most when I was riding was growing up on the farm and me and my brother would grab our bikes and head out across the horse fields on the trails the horses would make. They were rutty, bumpy, rocky, and bro and I would get a kick out of seeing if we could make it up this one hill that was slippy from the horses chewing up the gravel and making it loose. Yup, that's the impression I got of the trail. Bumpy, rutty (they are drying out now and after digging it up in wet conditions, they are becoming rutty), hard to climb on the steep sections because of the looseness, and full of horse shit. Before I even started riding, I tried to get on my bike and slipped and fell in rocks -- in horse shit! Stupid me.

Now my verdict -- at present, the trails are definitely rideable, but bumpy and loose at spots. The worst parts are minimal - maybe 25% of entire length of trail? The bumps will likely smooth out over time with bike traffic and a couple rains; unless the rains are SO hard it starts to wash which is my next verdict. I think over time there will be areas that will begin to erode and that's the part I'm not so sure DCNR was really thinking about - how will these trails hold up over time with this kind of traffic. But time will tell that story. I can't imagine the horses will be back for another year - at least not in the numbers they were in this past weekend. We may see a horse or two every now and again, but one or two may not cause that much trouble.

So... get out and ride and smooth out the trails! Ride Shale Run, Preserve Line, Matter Singletrack, Rock's Ridge West and Wolf Pond.

RCST Prez and Vice Prez Comments on Horse Event

2009-07-28T06:30:00.002-04:00

In case folks don't open comments to posts; I wanted to be sure everyone saw the comments of the RCST Prez, Keith Whitcomb, and the Club's Vice Prez, Ricky Brown. These comments were in response to a sort of confrontation equestrian rider. As as an FYI, Keith is a graduate of IMBA's (International Mountain Biking Association) Trailbuilding school, so he just might know what he's talking about! Here the comments:

My name is Rick Brown. I'm the biker that came over to camp to talk to Jim Saturday eve.I'm not sure what you are imagining I said or did that was unsportsman like but I was anything but. I was respectful and simply voiced my concerns for damage to the trails due to soft trail conditions.As far as the trails, bikers built them for biking and hiking. We know that the trails cannot take horse traffic with out considerable damage over time. There's no room for discussion on this point. We've seen the results of horses on these trail before and it's unacceptable.When Jim ran this event last year I actaully helped mark the course and we had an understanding that he would not use singletrack bike trails. That was great. But now this year we were not involved and he used trails because DCNR gave him the go ahead. He should have had an alternate course laid out just in case of bad trail conditions so he could have used it and avoided the damage that was done today, especially after the heavy rains last night.If you spent years developing a trail system for a certain purpose and had anther user group come in and in a weekend of use do damage to those trails you wouldn't be happy.I was also back over there today, taking pictures of the results of the ride. Hopefully when DCNR comes in to inspect the trails tomorrow they will agree that horses should not be on the singletrack trails. Running the course on the trails after the rain we had the night before, after I voiced concerns for trail conditions, may actaully have been a mistake on Jim's part.Those trails can take horse traffic if conditions are good. Today conditions were not and if you were out there on the trail today you could see the results of it.I've posted pictures and sent e-mails to DCNR and Lykens Borough Watershed letting them know of our concerns.About half of the singletrack trails are on Lykens Borough property and due to previous horse damage to the trails they have gave us permission years ago to post all those trails off limits to horses. Hopefully DCNR will see things from the same perspective after inspecting the trails after this weekend.

Keith Whitcomb said...
Ok, here we go. My name is Keith Whitcomb and I'm one of the guys who laid out the Rattling Creek Trail System.First, I'll tell you that we took about 2 years just hiking the mountains with a topo map in hand just to figure out where to go and where not to go with the trails. We made meticulous notes of wet areas, steep slopes, etc. when we were looking at building a connector or new section of trail. Some of the trails already existed on DCNR property and the topo map so we opened them up because they were grown in at the time. We actually rerouted some sections, such as on Wolf Pond Trail. The old section of Wolf Pond Trail went through vernal ponds so we rerouted out of that wet area. Our plan was to open up existing stuff and then asess them later to see if we need to reroute, which we did.All of the new trail or connectors were laid out to minimize impact and/or trail maintenance. We used IMBA guidlines for this. Many of our club memebers have attended IMBA Trailbuilding Schools and are knowledgable on how and how not to build trails.So to see damage like this in one weekend is just very frustrating for me. I understand that this is public land but I don't think that this event was coordinated using a common sense approach. At the very least there should have been a contingency plan in case of soft trail conditions. The snowmobile trails or roads could have been used in lieu of the soft singletrack. Also, even in dry conditions the route should not have went up and down an approximately 20% grade into a stream bed. (Preserve Line Trail)That section of trail definately needs rerouted.
July 27, 2009 1:45 PM
Keith Whitcomb said...
I don't hate horses or equestrians. That's not the issue here, trail degredation is. Hikers and mountain bikers have an initmate relationship with the trail surface itself. What I'm trying to say is that the damage that has been done will not be felt or noticed by equestrians but it will be by hikers and bikers. So with that being said I hope you all understand that your impact will be noticed by other users, and eventually maybe to the point that those other user groups will no longer be able to use those trails.I, or our club is not looking for any recognition here, but the truth of the matter is if RCST didn't exist, most of that singetrack wouldn't exist. We have logged 3,000 to 4,000 volunteer hours to build that trail system. I spent many lonely days in those woods with my brushcutter. We have also done a lot of meticulous rock work to make impassable sections walkable and/or rideable. We had a fiord built across wolf run so we wouldn't rut the streambed. So much work, can some you see where I'm coming from?I'm not saying that bikes can't do damage either, that's why we rerouted some sections. A good comparison to this is secondary and rural back roads. Did any of you ever see a sign on a back road saying no vehicles over 10,000 pounds? That's because that road can't handle that kind of impact, especially if repeated over and over again.There are plenty of studies and data out there comparing the impacts of user groups. Horses are right up there with motorized users. Hikers being the least and bikes usually second in most cases.The issue isn't the people in the user group or even the horse itself, IT'S ALL ABOUT THE IMPACT AND HOW THAT IMPACT EFFECTS THE EXPERIENCE OF THE OTHER USER GROUPS.Rick tried to get Jim to see our point of view but I guess he didn't. He wasn't being "unsportmanlike" he was being "passionate" about the work we have done. All we're looking for here is for you to work with us and try to understand our point of view. We feel that there is no respect for what we have done in Weiser Forest.If there is mutual respect you will try to work with us and also put some sweat equity into this great trail system. We just feel that we shouldn't have keep repairing damage if we aren't the ones making these huge impacts. Like I said earlier, equestrians might not notice these impacts/changes to the trail, but someone on foot or bike will. I know GOD made the forest for all animals, again, that's not the issue. If this was the 1800's we wouldn't be having this conversation. But it's not the 1800's and this is public land, so in my opinion should be managed that way. It's funded by taxpayer dollars and VOLUNTEER sweat and equity. There are no simple solutions but I think we can find a way not to hate each other, but we also have to respect each other and each other's concerns.Keith Whitcomb, RCST
July 27, 2009 1:46 PM

DCNR Trail Assessment of Sunday's Equestrian Event

2009-07-28T06:26:00.000-04:00

From DCNR - their assessment of the trails:

From: "Nicola R Zulli" To: rcst1@yahoo.com, REBJSW@epix.net, "jim theurer"
Cc: "Michael Mazur" , "Mark W Deibler"
Sent: Monday, July 27, 2009 2:49:02 PM GMT -05:00 US/Canada Eastern
Subject: Damage to Single Track Trails
Hello All,
I spent most of the day today hiking the single tract trails used by the
equestrian event held this past weekend. I will agree the trails did show
signs that horses had traveled them after a rain event. I did not see major
damage to the extent that the trails are unusable for biking or hiking.
There were some small holes made by the horse's hooves and I did find one
hole that was a foot deep or so, probably from a rock being moved. The
stream bed had no damage to it and the stream banks had minor damage, that I
believe will have little impact to the stream and water quality. Over all I
am impressed the trails held up the way they did with having a down pour for
a couple hours and then having 29 horses travel over them.
I have spoken with Jim in person and he is going to go over the trail and
fix any holes that were made by horses and special attention to Preserve
Line Trail and Shale Run Trail. This work will be done in the next day or
two. Once this work is completed, Jim please let me know and I will walk
the trails again.
Also, while I was talking to Jim, he mentioned he is willing to help do
maintenance on the trails with the Rattling Creek Single Trackers, he would
just have to be notified in advance.
If any one has any comments or questions please contact me.
Nick Zulli

Pictures of the Horse Damage on Shale Run and Preserve Line Trail

2009-07-26T17:42:00.002-04:00

Here is the link to pictures of the horses on soft singletrack. These pictures were shared with DCNR and the Lykens Watershed for erosion concerns in the West Branch of Rattling Creek. We plan to also talk directly to DCNR.

Please, keep the comments non-confrontational. Our intent is NOT to prevent anyone from using the public land -- but to work with the landowners to conserve the land. There are many, many miles of trails that can appropriately be used by numerous user groups. Last year's equestrian event was ideal -- we worked directly with Jim Theurer to develop the course to prevent any trail damage and it worked out fine. We were not contacted for this year's event, thus, trail damage on soft singletrack. We've never had any issues with horses using the snowmobile trails which are built to sustain the horse traffic.

I also have to make one more personal comment to the horse folks. I was raised on a horse farm and still live near the horses. I have all the respect in the world for these beautiful creatures and certainly hold nothing against the horses. This is simply a situation of the mountain biking club trying to maintain the quality of the trail system they volunteered hundreds of hours building.

HORSES - Sunday July 26

2009-07-25T21:10:00.003-04:00

The horse competition I mentioned in the previous post will continue on Sunday, July 26. Horses will be on SHALE RUN, PRESERVE LINE, MATTER SINGLETRACK, maybe WOLF POND and ROCK'S RIDGE! Rick talked to the organizer tonight about horses on soft trail and the organizer said DCNR told them they could use whatever they wanted. So they are. They are not on watershed trails (Rattling Creek, Fawn Kill, Rugged, Doc Smith). Rick will be taking pictures on Sunday of the trails after the horses go through and he plans to share with DCNR and the Lykens Watershed. We just had a good downpour and 40 or so horses on Shale Run today will not be a pretty sight. There are several concerns: 1) they are using the streambank of Rattling Creek on Preserve line -- that could start an erosion process which the Watershed folks may have issue with, 2) The Rattling Creek Membership built many of the trails and while yes, we volunteered our time realizing the trails are multi-use, we didn't build them to be torn up by another user group that is not planning to return and repair the damage, and 3) We explained to both the watershed and DCNR the trails can't sustain a thousand pound animal in soft conditions - thus, the "NO HORSES" signs went up - both DCNR and the Lykens Watershed agreed to this. Since that time, a new forrester took over and his views differ from Ellen Roane's (we miss her!). Horses on soft single track is a problem and we'll do our best to resolve.

Sat July 25 Trail Report - Horses!

2009-07-25T16:32:00.005-04:00

I'm sorry to say the club had NO idea there was going to be a horse competition on the trails today -- so my apologies to those who "tried" to ride today. We aren't talking a horse or two -- we are talking 50 or so horses doing "loops" on the trails. Last year, Rick helped the organizer layout a course using a 12 mile, mostly-snowmobile (and some fire road) course and the horses did two loops on this course. So when I started riding, I said to my riding partner, "don't worry, when we jump on the single track, we'll be fine." WRONG! Much to my surprise and disappointment, the course was laid out this year to include the far west end of Rock's Ridge (behind Wolf Pond where its the softest and yes, the trails were soft today), the first half of Wolf Pond Trail before the big rock gardens, all of shale run and Preserve line (ARGH! and it was soft too), and I'm fairly certain Matter single track which may have been fairly solid. The horses were NOT on Rattling creek, Fawn Kill, or Rugged (watershed territory). We were not contacted this year to help with the course and we had no idea it was going on. You can't imagine the frustration when I saw the hooves digging in the soft single track and they were the first 3 of 50 doing two loops on that section. I was truly afraid to go back and check what it looked like when they were done. Not sure what we'll do if anything. It IS public land afterall. But -- its possible the horse folks have a trail work session scheduled to fix what may be rutted (maybe?). In the meantime, watch for horse ruts on Rock's Ridge West (far end), Wolf Pond, Shale Run, Preserve Line, and Matter Single track (unless they fixed it today when they were done).

The RCST Website is Down - Maybe for Good

2009-07-20T04:13:00.002-04:00

If you've been checking the RCST1.org website and have been wondering why no recent updates, it's because our other computer died along with the software to update the website and we haven't quite figured out what to do just yet other than maybe use this here Blog, which works fine. Yes, that site was antiquated and needed a faceflift, but we didn't think it would happen this way. One of our wonderful club members offered to do a website -- but for a cost (he works for an IT company), and we really didn't want to take on another monthly cost for the club. Sooo.... after the BASH, that website will likely disappear and you'll see a permanent link to this blog.

July 4 Firecracker Ride

2009-07-06T07:17:00.003-04:00

It was a nice turnout for the ride. Some familiar faces, and some familiar faces we haven't seen in a while too! Andy Miller, Andrea Strubhar, Brian Arnold, Shawn Withers, Chris from Mountainside Ski and Sports, Joe Daversa, and some other folks I didn't know showed up for the ride. While Rick nor I could partake in the fun and festivities the rest of the group had on the 4th due to family obligations, I'm sure the group had a great time. Isn't it all good??

July 4 Firecracker Ride - BYOB(urgers)

2009-06-23T21:13:00.003-04:00

It turns out we have to make some changes to the July 4 Firecracker ride this year. Yes, we're still doing group rides -- it'll be Rick with a more casual group and Jill with whatever else everyone else wants to ride. Keith won't make it, and Jill and Rick have family visiting from out of town so they won't be able to stay after the ride to cook up dead meat and chat. You all are certainly welcome to bring your own eats. There are charcoal grills at the picnic area you are welcome to use. You'll have to supply your own charcoal for the grills, and of course the dead meat, rolls, and snacks. So come on out for the ride! 10:00 am at the Minnich Hit picnic area. See www.rcst1.org for directions to the Minnich hit picnic area.

Trail Report, June 14, 2009

2009-06-15T21:20:00.002-04:00

18 horses, 7 mountain bikers, a family of hikers, 2 turkeys, 1 ruffed grouse, a chipmunk and a tick or two -- not bad for a sunny day in the woods. The horse people were very nice folks on gorgeous animals - I was impressed. The horses were all very well behaved as they passed me -- maybe it's cause I WASN'T in neon? Might make a difference. :) Of course about 15 minutes later I wasn't as happy when I rolled over some leave-behinds of the horses. Nice. My bike needed a good scrubbing anyway. Don't worry, the horses weren't on single track - it was Rim trail. They tend to stick to the roads or snowmobile trail. The trails are still in awesome shape. There are a couple face slappers here and there, but nothing we can't live with. It's also getting easier to get over some of the logs we talked about removing -- maybe we'll let them stay. Have Fun!

Trail Report - June 8, 2009

2009-06-08T07:09:00.002-04:00

We have another trail god to thank. If you notice trees removed - thank Emory Ehrenfeld the next time you see him. He spent several hours on the Rattling Creek trails on Sunday not only riding, but clearing trees. Our club has some dedicated folks and Emory is one of them. The trails are still in pretty good shape with everything grown in now. I noticed a couple face slappers on Doc Smith and Rattling Creek that we'll have to get to, but all in all, even with all the rain, the trails were good to go with few wet/soggy spots. There are two really big trees down on Rattling Creek that we'll have to hike in with a chainsaw - but it appears some folks are getting over them with the chain ring marks on them. There's some serious gypsy moth feasting going on and its quite obvious on Rattling Creek and other areas where there's a concentration of oak trees. You can see chewed leaves on the trail and if its calm, you can hear them! No, I'm not kidding. They have voracious appetites and will clean a tree in a couple weeks. And I also noticed two deer INSIDE the Deer EXCLOSURE. Poor things. Rick said water could be a problem for them -- but I commented if they got in, they can get out. They're not so dumb.

IMBA Action Alert - PA State Parks!

2009-06-05T20:56:00.000-04:00

From IMBA:

Take Action to Protect Pennsylvania’s Parks and Forests
IMBA’s Mid-Atlantic office urges mountain bikers to help protect vital natural resources, including singletrack, by asking the Pennsylvania legislature to reconsider drastic budget cuts. The proposed cuts would negatively impact 117 parks and 2.1 million acres of forests managed by the state.Take Action by speaking in favor of strong funding for Pennsylvania’s treasured parks and forests. IMBA’s online form allows you to easily contact your state legislator and let him or her know that you support an equitable review off all state programs, and that state parks and forests are critical to the economic well being of the state and the health of its citizens. Additional InformationThe Senate’s current budget plan (Senate Bill 850, now in the House as Bill 1416) reduces the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) budget by about $19 million more than Governor Rendell’s current proposal. This could force DCNR to close between 35 and 50 state parks, and close more than 1,000 miles of State Forestry roads. Prime mountain bike trails in state parks such as Blue Knob, Laurel Summit, and RB Winter would be affected. The list of closures centers disproportionately on the central region of the state, where the state parks are vital to tourism and local businesses. For example, every park that the Wilderness 101 ultra endurance race passes through would be closed. The State Forest system itself would need to close 20 percent of their forest road inventory to meet the proposed budget. Read the DCNR press release. While IMBA appreciates that in these tough economic times we all need to tighten our belts, the Senate’s plan cuts a disproportionate amount from the DCNR budget. The proposal cuts the state park budget by 14 percent and the state forest budget by 30.5percent (a 17-percent reduction to DCNR overall). State parks and state forests have already taken strong cost-cutting measures to accommodate the economic downturn: reduced maintenance, limited purchasing and reductions in travel and training. The next step, should the Senate bill pass the House, would be closure and reduction in programs. DCNR is already facing a loss of their trust to the tune of $174 million, a fund created by resource extraction fees and leases.

Memorial Weekend Ride Report

2009-05-25T03:28:00.002-04:00

Oh what a beautiful day -- the rains held out, the trails are in tremendous shape, no mechanicals, and a group of about 9 made for a perfect group ride day. Since the group was small, we all rode together and those that felt like they were done, headed back when they felt like it. The group was Ricky Brown, Keith Whitcomb, Brian Arnold, Andrea Strubhar, Mike Althouse, Joe Daversa, Emory (who actually went on his own with two folks unfamiliar with the trails), Rick Michael, and jill. There was a 9:00am crowd too - Rick Begley and company (why don't they ever ride with us????). Dale Shomper gets man-of-the-day recognition. He took the chainsaw while the rest of us were riding, and got down some of the nasty logs that have been hanging around for awhile -- mainly the one on the top of Rattling Creek that you had to crawl under and wondered when that sucker was going to fall on top of you. We can't thank Dale enough. That one required about a mile hike in with chainsaw in hand. Emory also did his deed on Doc Smith with a nice hand saw. Our club has some of the best members - thank you, thank you, thank you. The ride? Excellent. Its rare there are no mechanicals, but today was the day. The group started breaking apart at about mile marker 10, and two die-hards stuck it out the whole loop. Food awaited and the festivities of the welcome summer biker-picnic began. The 9:00 am crowd joined in on the socializing and all had a good time - thanks for coming out!

Coming Up - Memorial Weekend Ride, Sunday May 24

2009-05-15T06:51:00.002-04:00

The RCST schedule has the annual Memorial weekend ride slated for Sunday, May 24 at 10:00 am. The ride starts at the Minnich Hit Picnic area -- plan to start RIDING at 10:00 am - not get there, change a flat, change your clothes, get your food/drink ready, then ride at 10:30. 10:00 AM SHARP the groups leave! If there's no one there at 10:01 a.m. when you arrive, don't say you weren't warned! The groups will be based on the turnout and who feels like riding what. Rick, for sure, will be taking a shorter, easier ride -- maybe 10-15 miles on the easiest trails with fireroad and snowmobile trail mixed in. I'm not sure what Keith is doing -- last year he didn't ride because of carpal tunnel surgery, but I'm not sure about this year. I'll do whatever folks want to do. I'm (jill) good for all the rocks and the entire loop if that's what people want to do. Don't expect any race pace though. For you racers, hopefully someone like Shawn Withers, or maybe even ANDY! will show up and you follow them through the woods. But we'll have to wait and see. Weather plays a huge factor. I'll try to keep you posted as it gets closer.