Mountain Biking around Bellingham Washington and Whatcom County with Downhill and Freeriding

5th Annual WMBC Shoot the Trails Awards – First Place ‘Over the Hill’ by Kevin Menard of Transition Bikes

Galbraith Mountain Access Changes – Gailbraith Lane Gate

“Gate and Switch” Trail

Direct access to the Tower Rd (Road 2000) is now closed and a reroute is still in place. The only gate open for public access is at end of Galbraith Lane (Road 1000). The reroute has been completed and detour signs and mini maps have been set up at the base of the hill to help you navigate through the changes.

Galbraith is a really busy hill and all public traffic is now be funneled straight through Galbraith Lane. Please be courteous to the residents by keeping your pets on a leash, picking up your poo bags, and respecting people’s private properties.  This a shared space that we’re lucky to use. Thank you for your patience and for all of your support!

9.21.2017
Howdy folks,

The aerial spraying is delayed until Monday at the soonest.  The helicopter was delayed on another job in the East county today due to fog.

We’ll fill you in as we know more.  Looks like I’ll be pulling signs tomorrow in the AM though.  If anyone is out early AM (I’m looking at you, Dawn patrol and over-mountain commuters!), please pull the signs and/or move the sandwich boards out of the way and let me know what was pulled- where.  Thanks!

Cheers,
EB

Galbraith Closed Friday 9/22/2017

Morning folks,

Please Share with your riding friends!

We are asking folks to stay off of Galbraith tomorrow (9/22). There will be aerial spraying glyphosphate in the highlighted areas on the map and we won’t know exactly where the pilot will be at any given time. They are planning to start in the morning and hopefully will finish up everything tomorrow. If that changes, we’ll keep people posted….you can find out the latest on the website or Facebook.

Signage and flagging will go up on the mountain this afternoon. Thanks!

Cheers,
EB

General information about trails in the Bellingham area:

• There are City trail maps available at the Visitors Bureau or Parks Dept.
• Cornwall Park Trail (1.5 miles, easy double track) – in Cornwall Park.
• Interurban Trail (7 miles, easy double track) – Fairhaven to Larrabee State Park.
• Lake Padden Park Trail (2.6 miles, easy double track) – around the lake.
• Railroad Trail (3.5 miles, easy) – King Street to Alabama & Vining St.
• South Bay Trail (2 mile, easy) – connects Fairhaven, Boulevard Park, and downtown.
• Whatcom Falls Park Trails (3.5 miles, easy double track) – trails in and around park.
• North Lake Whatcom Park “Hertz Trail” (3 miles one way, easy) – runs along the east shore of the lake. Great views and a waterfall.
• Lake Padden single track trails (5.1 miles, beginner single track) Access in park or parking lot on Samish Way about 1 mile south of park entrance.
• Galbraith Mountain (many trails, easy to double black diamond) in Bellingham features miles of trails in and around logging sites.
• Civic Field Dirt Jump Track – Located near the skate board park on Puget Street one block south of Lakeway Drive.
• Chuckanut Mountain (easy to double black diamond) some trails are available for biking and some trails are hikers only.
• Blanchard Mountain (Intermediate downhill) Blanchard was built and maintained by an equestrian club and is frequently in use by riders and hikers.  Please be aware of other trail users.  Blanchard often has less traffic mid-week.
• Snakonia, Mercury Falls, Krasskiki (extreme downhill)
• Glacier area offers newer trails.  Please contact locals or the Glacier Ski Shop, 360-599-1943

Whatcom Parks Trails and Maps – Provides information on the following trails:

• • Beach Walk
  • Canyon Lake
  • Deming Eagle Park
  • Equestrian Center
  • Hovander Trail
  • North Lake Whatcom
  • Samish Trail
  • Semiahmoo Trail
  • Silver Lake Trails
  • Soccer Trail
  • Squires Lake Trail
  • Stimpson Nature Reserve
  • Tennant Lake Trails

• Chuckanut Trail System:
• Chuckanut Ridge
• Hemlock
• Huckleberry Point
• Interurban Trail
• Lost Lake
• Madrone Crest
• Pine & Cedar Lakes
• Raptor Ridge
• Salal Trail
• Teddy Bear Cove

Bellingham Parks Trail Guides – Provides information on the following trails:

• Overview map of trails in Bellingham
• Bay to Baker & Little Squalicum
• Civic Field
• Connelly Creek
• Cornwall & Bug Lake
• Downtown Trails
• Interurban & Arroyo
• Lake Padden
• Larrabee & Fairhaven
• Railroad & Klipsun
• Sehome Hill
• South Bay & Boulevard
• Whatcom Creek – West
• Whatcom Falls & Whatcom Creek – East
• Other Trails
• City of Bellingham animal related regulations

•  Aerobic Fitness Reduces Brain Tissue Loss in Aging Humans
  Stanley J. Colcombe1, Kirk I. Erickson1, Naftali Raz2, Andrew G. Webb1, Neal J. Cohen1, Edward McAuley1 and Arthur F. Kramer1

  1 Beckman Institute, University of Illinois, Urbana.
  2 Institute of Gerontology, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan.

  Background. The human brain gradually loses tissue from the third decade of life onward, with concomitant declines in cognitive performance. Given the projected rapid growth in aged populations, and the staggering costs associated with geriatric care, identifying mechanisms that may reduce or reverse cerebral deterioration is rapidly emerging as an important public health goal. Previous research has demonstrated that aerobic fitness training improves cognitive function in older adults and can improve brain health in aging laboratory animals, suggesting that aerobic fitness may provide a mechanism to improve cerebral health in aging humans. We examined the relationship between aerobic fitness and in vivo brain tissue density in an older adult population, using voxel-based morphometric techniques.

  Methods. We acquired high-resolution magnetic resonance imaging scans from 55 older adults. These images were segmented into gray and white matter maps, registered into stereotaxic space, and examined for systematic variation in tissue density as a function of age, aerobic fitness, and a number of other health markers.

  Results. Consistent with previous studies of aging and brain volume, we found robust declines in tissue densities as a function of age in the frontal, parietal, and temporal cortices. More importantly, we found that losses in these areas were substantially reduced as a function of cardiovascular fitness, even when we statistically controlled for other moderator variables.

  Conclusions. These findings extend the scope of beneficial effects of aerobic exercise beyond cardiovascular health, and they suggest a strong solid biological basis for the benefits of exercise on the brain health of older adults.Visit http://biomed.gerontologyjournals.org/cgi/content/abstract/58/2/M176 for full text

9.7.2017

Hi folks,

I hope you are all handling the hazy conditions ok.  We need everyone to do their rain dance to help our firefighters across the region.

A couple of quick notes.

Saturday:   Trail day at Lake Whatcom Park /  Stewart Mountain
We’ll be working on the continuation of the climbing route and plan to do some cleanup work behind the mini-ex.  Washington Trails Association and other groups have been out working on the trail since our last trail day, so it will be exciting to see the progress and continue this cool trail up the hill.  We will meet at the bottom and then carpool up to the work zone.  If folks need to leave early, they can either hike down the hill or get a ride when we grab lunch.  Coffee and bagels will be provided in the AM and we’ll have pizza from the Fork at Agate Bay for lunch.

When: Saturday, August 9th
Time:  8:30 AM – 3 PM
Location:  North Lake Whatcom Trail (Hertz Trailhead)
https://www.google.com/maps/place/North+Lake+Whatcom+Trail/@48.7330541,-122.3438957,14z/data=!4m8!1m2!2m1!1snorth+lake+whatcom+trail!3m4!1s0x0:0x2f841ca3ca68d40a!8m2!3d48.7305492!4d-122.3087096

As always, come dressed for weather and bring appropriate working attire.

Tonight:  Bellingham PD and Project 529 discuss bike theft and registering your bikes.  More info. here:
When: September 7, 2017, 7:00pm
Where: Bellingham Police Dept. Training Room, 505 Grand Avenue (enter via the gate off C St)
Bellingham Police and Public Works departments invite you to join us for an evening information/discussion session about the Project 529 bicycle registration program. Our goal is to facilitate a community-wide effort to address bike theft in Bellingham.
We hear from citizens on a regular basis who have had their bikes stolen and want to know what can be done about it. Bellingham Police and Public Works departments have committed resources to implement Project 529 in our community. To be effective we need strong partnerships with our local bike shops, cyclists, and advocates.
Thanks and hope to see you there!
Kim Brown
kimbrown@cob.org 360-778-7950

8.11.2017
Hi all,

We got a bunch of updates for you all.  Please read through the entire list!

EB

Civic DJ Build Day on Saturday (tomorrow):
Michael Storm will be leading a crew to continue to give the DJ’s some love…meeting at 9 AM and going ‘til Noon’ish.  BBQ and riding afterwards.

Galbraith CLOSED on TUESDAY (August 15) due to ROAD SPRAYING:
Folks, every road is being sprayed with herbicide on Tuesday and we are asking for folks to stay off the mountain on that day.  PLEASE share with your riding and running friends!

Pump track Grand Opening Celebration:
What a fun evening hanging out with our incredible community.  Thank you to everyone that has supported that effort.  Eric Ashely is putting together a write up on Pinkbike that should be live soon.  Thanks to him and Eric Mickelson, Skye Schillhammer for the awesome photos and video.

• WMBC Write-up:  https://wmbcmtb.org/2017/08/10/whatcom-falls-pump-track-grand-opening/
• Pinkbike Write-up:  https://www.pinkbike.com/news/whatcom-falls-pumptrack-grand-opening-bellingham-wa.html

Cougar Sightings on Galbraith:
There’s been two cougar sightings over the past week.  The first sighting was on Upper Bob’s trail around 8 PM and a friend saw a female cougar and her cubs.  The 2nd sighting just took place yesterday morning and another friend was running with her two dogs on the road between the Ridge and SST (Road 1000) down near where the creek is.  As the Cougar was approaching them, one of her dogs snarled and showed its teeth and the cougar went off into the woods.  This is a reminder that we are sharing the woods with critters – big and small.

Postponed – Fanatik Build Day this weekend:
Due to dry conditions, we are postponing Sunday’s trailday on SST until a late date in September.

September 9th – Build Day on Stewart Mountain:
Mark your calendars!  We’ll be joining Whatcom County Parks again for another build day on the up-route on Stewart Mountain.  More details to come on this!

Sunday, August 27th – Cascadia Dirt Cup Race – Call for Volunteers!
We’ll need folks to help be timers, course marshal, help in the beer garden, parking, registration, etc.  If you’d like to help us put on one of the premier races in the PNW, give me a shout with your preference for what you’d like to help with.  As always, we’ll make sure you are well cared for with food, beers and gear!  Email me directly or the wmbc at:  wmbcmtb@gmail.com
http://www.racecascadia.com/chuckanut

Cedar Dust re-opened:
Huge thanks to Javon Smith, Forrest Montgomery and Nik Budden from Boundary Bay for getting out on Thursday to clear two impasable sections on Cedar Dust.  The trail is reconnected

“This is Home” – Incredible Video and Pictures  with Jill Kintner and Bryn Atkinson:
Awesome pics and vid of Jill riding around town and down at Duthie.
https://www.pinkbike.com/news/this-is-home-jill-kintner-video.html

July’s 3rd most ridden US destinations – Bellingham:
I’m not exactly sure how accurate this is (it’s calculated via Trailforks), but it’s interesting nonetheless.
https://www.pinkbike.com/news/top-10-ridden-us-biking-destinations-in-july.html

Brushing:
Huge thanks to Javon Smith, Jon Hereen, Devon Pelkie, Danny Pickering, Tyler Byrnes and everyone else who helped brush this past week.  We knocked off the list Br’er Rabbit, Kaiser (again), Pigs, Mole Trap and Lone Wolf.  As always, if you’d like to brush your favorite trail (or one you know needs work), give me a shout and I can help coordinate weedeaters and supplies.

Logging Update: 
Cedar Dust is re-opened (per above), 187 is still closed, but Oly is passable.  I’m going to do a quick tour to see how Mullet is doing and I’ll update you all soon.

Cheers,
EB

8.4.2017
The Chuckanut Mountain wildfire flames have been put out. So, what’s next?

Read more here: http://www.bellinghamherald.com/news/local/article165472517.html#storylink=cpy

8.3.2017
Chuckanut fire 50 percent under control; full containment expected by week’s end

Read more here: http://www.bellinghamherald.com/news/local/article165179027.html#storylink=cpy

8.2.2017

Hey folks,

Just a head’s up, there’s a 60 acre fire burning off of Burnout Road on Chuckanut right now.

Clayton Beach Parking lot is closed for staging the fire crews and trucks.  There’s roughly 100 firefighters on the fire right now.  They will be going up Fragrance Lake Road to Burnout to work on the fire.
http://komonews.com/news/local/wildfire-near-chuckanut-mountain-threatening-4-homes

While trails are still open, we’d advise staying away from Chuckanut / Larrabee State Park until further notice.  It’s super hazy over there and there will be a lot of vehicle activity.

Last, it goes without saying, but with the extreme dry conditions and heat, there are NO fires allowed outdoors in Western Washington / Whatcom County right now.

Cheers,
EB

8.3.2017

Hi all,

Some upcoming things for you everyone over the next few weeks.

Advocacy Alert – Take 5 minutes to fill out this Survey:
From the survey page: “It is designed by Washington State University to help land management agencies, and outdoor recreation groups understand your outdoor recreation wishes, and how to make public recreation lands in Washington State easier for you and future generations to use and enjoy. “As such, they are asking trail users to fill out their survey.
https://wsu.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_5zm7FqvKHHSfujX

Wednesday, August 9th –  Whatcom Falls Pump Track Grand Opening:
Well folks, we’ve got the fence built and the signage is designed and we’ll be cutting the ribbon at 6 PM.  Fanatik Bike will be cooking up burgers and dogs and have Norco DJ bikes for folks to ride.  Jill Kintner and Bryn Atkinson will also be autographing posters at the Freehub Magazine tent.  More details here:
https://www.facebook.com/events/1947324518839394/

Sunday, August 13th, Fanatik Build Day on SST:
The weather is going to dictate what we can do on SST on the 13th, so stay tuned for more details on whether we can host this day or not!
https://www.facebook.com/events/1896385753934176

August 12 and 13th, Capitol Forest Classic:
We got a note from the Friends of Capitol Forest that their Capitol Forest Classic weekend of racing has very low registrants so far.  If you’re thinking about racing either day (or both days), head over and get registered asap and help out the good folks at FOCF!
https://www.capitolforestclassic.com/

Sunday, August 27th – Cascadia Dirt Cup Race – Call for Volunteers!
We’ll need folks to help be timers, course marshal, help in the beer garden, parking, registration, etc.  If you’d like to help us put on one of the premier races in the PNW, give me a shout with your preference for what you’d like to help with.  As always, we’ll make sure you are well cared for with food, beers and gear!
http://www.racecascadia.com/chuckanut

Brushing:
We are under a “High” fire danger rating and, as such, all brushing work has to be done by 1 PM when using the weedeaters.  If you’d still like to help brush your favorite trails, give us a shout and we’ll help organize tools and supplies.

Logging update:
As always, please respect the closures for everyone’s safety.

• Mullet and 911 are closed. While only the bottom of Mullet is being impacted, we have the top and middle flagged off as well to ensure folks aren’t ending up in the logging area on accident.
• Oly / Cougar and 187 are still closed.  Logs will be hauled out of there in the coming days and we anticipate them opening back up within the week.
• Cedar Dust is now re-opened, but Janicki’s crew is still hauling logs on the South side of the trail, so please be aware. We’ll get our crew in there to clean up the debris in the next week or so.

Cheers,
EB

7.18.2017

Hey folks,

A quick update for everyone this week.

Timber Harvest:
We closed down Oly and Lost Sole today due to timber operations in that area.  If you ride down Keystone or Happy Hour, please use Vitamin R or Kaiser to get out of those areas.

187 and Cougar are still open, but we will close them down later this week and Cedar Dust still remains closed.

Saturday – Lake Whatcom  / Stewart Mountain Trail Day:
We’ll be working with County Parks on continuing the up-route on Stewart Mountain.  Meeting out there at 8:30 and working ‘til 3’ish.

More info. here:
https://www.facebook.com/events/661552300712175

Cheers,
EB

7.6.2017
Hi all,

I just met with the folks at Janicki this morning and they are about to start a month of harvest activity on the mountain.  As such, there will be more vehicle activity during the weekdays, so please be courteous and move over when you come across a logging truck during the day.  Also, it is imperative that these closures are respected for your safety and the crew’s safety.

We will sign the trails as closed on the following dates, but dates are always subject to change.

1. Cedar Dust – July 10 -24th

Please Use Family Fun Center while all timber activity is taking place on Cedar Dust.

1. July 10th – 17th – Cutting
2. July 17- 24th – Log hauling,

1. Oly, 187, Lost Sole, Cougar  – July 17th – 31st.

Please use Vitamin R or Kaiser to Mullet to avoid this area.

1. July 17th – 24th – Cutting
2. July 24th – 31st – Log hauling

1. Lower Mullet, Upper 911 and Jack and the Beanstalk – July 31st – August 14th

Please exit Mullet on Kaiser or use Happy Hour.  For 911, use Cheech and Chong’s

1. July 31st – August 7 – Cutting
2. August 7- 14 – Log hauling

IMPORTANT: 
Road spraying:  There will be one day  in August (Date – TBD) of a FULL MOUNTAIN CLOSURE due to spraying on every single road.

Aerial Spraying:  There will be several days where certain trails / areas will be closed due to aerial spraying.  TBD on trails and dates.

We will update you on the above dates as soon as we  know.

Cheers,
EB
————————————
Eric Brown
Trail Director, Whatcom Mountain Bike Coalition

7.5.2017
Happy Wednesday, Folks!

I’ve got some big news to share.  The WMBC is pleased to announce the sale of Galbraith Mountain and the new owners intention of continued recreation use on the mountain!

”One of the motivating factors behind the purchase of the tree farm at Galbraith Mountain was our desire to provide continued access to the 45-plus miles of trails that are used year-round by tens of thousands of bikers, hikers, and runners,” says Kiersten Sahlberg, spokesperson for Galbraith Tree Farm LLC.

Photos: Nick Kelly, Eric Ashley, Courtney Nash

Read more about it here:
https://wmbcmtb.org/2017/07/05/whatcom-mountain-bike-coalition-supports-sale-of-galbraith-mountain/

————————————
Eric Brown
Trail Director, Whatcom Mountain Bike Coalition

7.1.2017
Hey folks,

I need about a half dozen folks who can help with the pump track’s wooden fence tomorrow.  I’ve got a dingo for digging post holes and need to set posts (in gravel).

Holler at me if you can help….carpentry skills a huge plus.  I’ll be there by 9.

Cheers,
EB

————————————
Eric Brown
Trail Director, Whatcom Mountain Bike Coalition

6.12.2017
Happy Monday folks,

We’ve been busy the past few weeks.  A handful of folks have stepped up to help brush their favorite trails the past week or two.  Read more below about what needs to be done and how we can knock out brushing with some coordinated efforts.

Cheers,
EB

Updates and Trail Recaps:

DNR  Update:  The Recreation Planning Committee is still busy working to identify the proper locations for recreation within Whatcom County.  Last Tuesday, myself and Mike McGlenn from the BCH went to Oly to speak to the Board of Natural Resources.  More on that here:
https://wmbcmtb.org/2017/06/12/dnr-update-and-board-of-natural-resources-speech/

National Trails Day Recap – Stewart Mountain
We had a great day up on the mountain and will be up there a fair bit over the course of the summer.
https://wmbcmtb.org/2017/06/12/national-trails-day-recap-lake-whatcom-park/

Brushing:
We’ve had a lot of folks get out and help brush the trails these past couple of weeks.  With the increased timber activity on the mountain, brushing has become a much larger and important task than in years past.  If folks want to help, I can always coordinate to drop weedeaters, supplies and our blower off for you.  That way, you can just ride in/out and have everything you need to get stuff done.  To see what trails have been brushed so far, check it out here:  https://wmbcmtb.org/2017/06/12/galbraith-brushing-update/

Civic Dirt Jump June recap:
Thanks to Michael and crew for giving the medium and advanced lines some love on Saturday!   https://wmbcmtb.org/2017/06/12/civic-dj-june-recap/

WMBC Youth Corps:
Char Waller is working on an amazing project involving middle and high schoolers in the 100 acre wood.  Still lots of planning to do, but if all goes as we hope, it’ll be an amazing experience for these youth to plan and create their own little bike park in the rock quarry within the park.

Whatcom Falls Pump track:
The pump track is still closed (other than work days) until we knock out the remaining items on the punch list.  We will be building 340’ of  wooden 2 rail fence that surrounds the track and creating/installing a kiosk with signage.  We also planted grass on the sides of the berms and pumps to help stabilize the slopes.  We’ll let folks know when we need help with the fence….we’ll need some experience folks on this project.

Upcoming Build Days and Events:

This Weekend:  We don’t have something planned YET for the weekend, but it’s almost certain we’ll have crews brushing and perhaps working on the pump track.  TBD.

June 25th , Ridge and Miranda Trail day
Join Jack’s Homegrown Racing for another day of maintenance on the Ridge and Miranda.  More info. here:
https://www.facebook.com/events/1333343226744226/

July 12-16,  Kettle Fest – Colville National Forest
Come join Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance, Evergreen East and the Whatcom Mountain Bike Coalition from July 12-16th for 5 days of epic riding and camping at Kettle Crest!  If you can’t join for the entire time, come for as long as works for you. Folks with kids, the campground is great spot for the little ones to ride around.  More here:
https://www.facebook.com/events/1881115448844863

6.2.2017
Happy Friday folks,

Just a reminder that tomorrow is National Trails day and we’re kicking off working on Lake Whatcom Park!!  The plan is to work on an up-route that is on the lowest part of the mountain.  We’ll be working with Washington Trails Association and County Parks on the day along with other trail users.  We’re asking folks to leave your doggies at home for this day. 

We’ll be kicking off the day at 9 AM at the Hertz Trailhead at the end of North Shore road.  There will be a ceremonial kickoff from the County before we head up the hill.  If you can carpool with friends, please do so!

Wednesday, we had a crew of 4 sawyers (Javon, James, Jimmy and myself) helping clear the corridor and there’s a LOT of Alder debris to move.   After that is removed, we’ll work on getting the organic off the corridor.  Because this will have a mini ex on it next week, we’ll do minimal benching and it should be a fun way to kick off the build season out there.  The weather looks good, so bring a swimsuit if you want to get a dip in the lake afterwards.

Also, Happy Hour starts at the Fork at 4PM….so if you want to swing by afterwards , that’s a great post-dig location!

If you can register with County Parks, that would be helpful too.
https://wa-whatcomcounty.civicplus.com/FormCenter/Parks-Recreation-17/Lake-Whatcom-Park-National-Trails-Day-Gr-111

Cheers,
EB

5.24.2017
Howdy folks,

A few updates for you.  As always, a reminder that you can follow our Google Calendar which is up-to-date.  https://wmbcmtb.org/wmbc-calendar-of-events/

Pump Track: 
The Pump track is still officially under construction, but folks have been getting laps on it.  We’ll have a crew out at the pump track today starting around 3’ish moving dirt and bark, doing general cleanup and then riding and bbq’ing.  We’ll have a trail day there this Saturday to continue those efforts from 9 AM to 1 PM.  If possible, please ride, hike or carpool to the park to avoid clogging up the entire parking lot.  Feel free to bring the kiddos!

Whatcom Falls Pump Track Build day Recap:
We had about 25 folks and a ton of kiddos out last weekend and it was a blast!
https://wmbcmtb.org/2017/05/22/whatcom-falls-pump-track-build-day/

2016 Trail Summary Report:
I finally got around to summarizing the data from last year’s survey.  If you want the Clif’s notes version, go to page 3.
https://wmbcmtb.org/2017/05/19/2016-wmbc-trail-survey-summary/

Saturday, June 3rd – National Trails Day on Stewart Mountain
It’s official folks! We are officially breaking ground and putting shovels in the dirt on Stewart Mountain (Aka, Lake Whatcom Park).  Please join the WMBC, Whatcom County Parks and Washington Trails Association for our very first trail day in Lake Whatcom Park.  https://www.facebook.com/events/288848771543116/
Sign up with County Parks here!   https://wa-whatcomcounty.civicplus.com/FormCenter/Parks-Recreation-17/Lake-Whatcom-Park-National-Trails-Day-Gr-111

June 10th, Civic Dirt Jump build day
Join Michael Storm for another Civic DJ build day to get the jumps in great shape before the summer season hits.  They usually go from 9-12  and then there’s some time to ride after.  More details to come as we get closer to the date.

June 25th , Ridge and Miranda Trail day
Join Jack’s Homegrown Racing for another day of maintenance on the Ridge and Miranda.  More info. here:
https://www.facebook.com/events/1333343226744226/

Bunny / Art’s Trail Logging:
The Janicki crew is starting to harvest in the area with Bunny and Art’s trails today. Thanks to Devon Pelkie and Russ Lambert’s efforts, Kaya, Hopscotch and the southern end of Bunny are re-opened (but still need work), but we’ll be closing the northern end of the these trails today.  See attached map below.
https://wmbcmtb.org/2017/05/24/logging-on-arts-and-bunny-trails/

Cheers,
EB

5.15.2017

Happy Monday all!

We’ve had a busy month and we’re not going to slow down anytime soon.  Huge kudos to everyone who has been coming out for our trail days, visited us at the breweries  and just getting a ton of work done on behalf of our community.

As always, a reminder that you can follow our Google Calendar which is up-to-date.
https://wmbcmtb.org/wmbc-calendar-of-events/

Cheers,
EB

Job Box:  Does anyone have an extra job box they’d be willing to part with for the WMBC?  We’d like to have one for Whatcom Falls pump track, so authorized individuals have easy access to hand tools and hoses for future maintenance.  It doesn’t need to be huge, but it needs to be able to accommodate a dozen tools (shovels, rakes, tampers) and 350 feet of hose.  Thanks!!

Larrabee State Park – Cleator Road is Open
After a week of grading work, the Cleator Road is opened back up to the top of Chuckanut Mountain.

Trail Day Recaps:

Craftsmen in our midst:
A truly over-the-top bridge railing from Belles and Pelkie and another signature Fricker bench!
https://wmbcmtb.org/2017/05/16/craftsmen-in-our-midst/

Unemployment Line Changes – sponsored by Terrain Gym and Terra-tactile Trailbuilding:
More awesome changes made by Andrew and John again this year.
https://wmbcmtb.org/2017/05/15/unemployment-line-sponsored-by-terrain-gym-and-terra-tactile-trailbuilding/

Lair of the Bear Recap – Sponsored by Mt Baker Imaging:
Trail tread and drainage work done.  Holes filled with tons of rock!
https://wmbcmtb.org/2017/05/11/lair-of-the-bear-trailday-recap/

Double Black Diamond Recap – Sponsored by Treelines Northwest:
Lots of drainage and trail tread work completed!
https://wmbcmtb.org/2017/05/11/double-black-diamond-recap-sponsored-by-treelines-northwest/

Rock n’ Roll Recap – Sponsored by Kulshan Brewing:
Tons of brushing and drainage work!
https://wmbcmtb.org/2017/05/15/rock-n-roll-trail-recap-sponsored-by-kulshan-brewing/

Upcoming Build days:  We will be adding more dates soon!

Sunday, May 21st – Whatcom Falls Pump Track:
We’re going to work this Sunday on cleaning up the work site, moving rocks and bark and we may have a few folks doing some adjustments to the track.
https://www.facebook.com/events/417146885321760/

Saturday, June 3rd – National Trails Day on Stewart Mountain
It’s official folks! We are officially breaking ground and putting shovels in the dirt on Stewart Mountain (Aka, Lake Whatcom Park).  Please join the WMBC, Whatcom County Parks and Washington Trails Association for our very first trail day in Lake Whatcom Park.  https://www.facebook.com/events/288848771543116/
Sign up with County Parks here!   https://wa-whatcomcounty.civicplus.com/FormCenter/Parks-Recreation-17/Lake-Whatcom-Park-National-Trails-Day-Gr-111

June 10th, Civic Dirt Jump build day
Join Michael Storm for another Civic DJ build day to get the jumps in great shape before the summer season hits.  They usually go from 9-12  and then there’s some time to ride after.  More details to come as we get closer to the date.

June 25th , Ridge and Miranda Trail day
Join Jack’s Homegrown Racing for another day of maintenance on the Ridge and Miranda.  More info. here:
https://www.facebook.com/events/1333343226744226/

————————————
Eric Brown
Trail Director, Whatcom Mountain Bike Coalition

5.2.2017
Hi folks,

A bunch of  things for you on this beautiful Tuesday, so get in where you fit in.

I’m heading out to the pump track.

Cheers,
EB

Evergreen Survey:  Take 5 minutes to fill this out!
http://www.questionpro.com/a/TakeSurvey?id=5599613&cu=26813

Cedar Dust Trail day – Recap: 
A big thanks to the folks at Boundary Bay for the super fun Cedar Dust Alley and their build day on Cedar Dust.  More about that here:
https://wmbcmtb.org/2017/05/01/cedar-dust-trail-day-recap/

WMBC Joyriders Spring Kickoff Recap:
The event was a huge success with groups ranging from beginners to advanced riding all over the mountain.   More info. here:
https://wmbcmtb.org/2017/04/26/joyrider-kick-off/

Joyrider schedule here:   https://wmbcmtb.org/joyriders/

Galbraith Earth Day recap:
A huge thanks to the 20 something folks who helped us get a bunch of old garbage off of the hill!!  Most of that had been on the mountain for decades.
https://wmbcmtb.org/2017/04/24/earth-day-2017-galbraith-clean-up/

Pump Track progress:
We have the main components of the stormwater system completed.  Big thanks to JP Slagle from Freeland and Associates for donating his expertise for our Stormwater design and Josh Neyman from Bellingham Parks for helping implement the design.  Also a big thanks to Fanatik and Granite Pre-cast for donating our Type 1 Basin and inlets for that system!  We can now focus on shaping the intermediate and advanced tracks.   I know some of you aren’t on FB, but we’re doing most of the updates on there right now.  We will be needing volunteers to help us move dirt for capping later this week…..more on that to come.

A not-so-subtle reminder:  This project is mostly being funded by the WMBC from our members’ donations.  Without your help, we can NOT do more of these moving forward.  If you’ve not donated to the WMBC this year, please do so here:   www.wmbcmtb.org/donate

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Saturday May 6th :  Transition Bikes “Second Annual Grand Opening”
Swing down from 12-5 PM…more info. here:
https://www.facebook.com/events/455819324759350/

April 28  – May 7th – Unemployment Line Overhaul Sponsored by Terrain Gym:
U Line is closed as Andrew Fletcher-Love and John Miller are taking their “vacation” to give U Line its yearly overhaul.  They like to keep it to a small crew, but if they need help, we’ll let folks know.

Sunday, May 7th – Double Black Diamond Trail Day sponsored by Treelines Northwest
We will focus on Double Black Diamond working top down.  As usual, Adam and the Treelines folks will stoke folks out with great food and beverages.  Bill Hawk is leading this day.
https://www.facebook.com/events/344503942614505/

Friday, May 12th  – Rock n Roll Trail day sponsored by Kulshan Brewing:
Come help get Rock n Roll dialed in for summer….meeting at 10 AM at the Samish lot.  We’ll make sure there’s plenty of Lager or Greenwood IPA ready to go.  More info. here:
https://www.facebook.com/events/257953967998938/

Saturday, June 3rd – National Trails Day on Stewart Mountain
It’s official folks! We are officially breaking ground and putting shovels in the dirt on Stewart Mountain (Aka, Lake Whatcom Park).  Please join the WMBC, Whatcom County Parks and Washington Trails Association for our very first trail day in Lake Whatcom Park.
https://www.facebook.com/events/288848771543116/

June 10th, Civic Dirt Jump build day
Join Michael Storm for another Civic DJ build day to get the jumps in great shape before the summer season hits.  They usually go from 9-12  and then there’s some time to ride after.  More details to come as we get closer to the date.

June 25th , Ridge and Miranda Trail day
Join Jack’s Homegrown Racing for another day of maintenance on the Ridge and Miranda.  More info. here:
https://www.facebook.com/events/1333343226744226/

4.20.2017
Howdy folks,

We’ve got a ton of stuff coming up over the next few weeks including a super fun women’s ride with the Joyriders and fundraisers as part of Bellingham Beer Week.

See below and get in where you fit in!

Cheers,
EB

Saturday, April 22:  Earth Day Clean Up
IMPORTANT:  We are meeting at the Samish Lot at 8:30, so folks can also go to the March for Science.  This day will be to get some of the really old garbage off of the hill.  Stuff like old tires and cars from the days when there were no gates on the mountain.   If you have a truck and don’t mind hauling stuff in it, please bring your truck with you.  Also helpful are come-a-longs, tow straps and tow ropes.  If you have a truck with a winch, that would be helpful as well.  We will have two dumpsters on the hill….one for scrap metal and one for garbage.  Any stuff that can be recycled will go into a pile and hauled off in the next week or two.
https://www.facebook.com/events/1972952822935935/

Saturday, April 22:   WMBC Joyriders Women’s Spring kickoff.
Ready to kick off a great year of Women’s rides!  Meet on the road above Last call starting at 9:30am and rides start at 10am go until 12:30.  Please carpool- you can park at lake Padden and pedal in, or be early to snag a good parking spot, on Samish way, or the dollar lot on Galbraith Lane.   1-4pm Post ride beers and raffle at Kulshan on James st!  Kulshan will donate $1. per pint to WMBC!
https://www.facebook.com/events/1256597657720624/

Sunday April 23:  Lair of the Bear Sponsored by Mount Baker Imaging
Meeting at the Samish Lot at 9 and carpooling up to the top of LOB.  You can also ride or hike up to join the crew.  Jeff Jaap is leading this day.
https://www.facebook.com/events/145457549319224/

Sunday April 23:  Boundary Bay  / Cedar Dust Alley Fundraiser – Bellingham Beer Week
From 12-4 PM, Boundary is bringing Galbraith Mountain to YOU!!  Get ready to have a radical time as we turn our alley into a Mountain Bike playground and festival! During Bellingham Beer Week, this event will raise funds for WMBC , and we’re shutting down the alley behind Boundary Bay for…BIKES…BIKES & BIKES.   Polecat will be playing at 2:30.
https://www.facebook.com/events/267764143675942/

Wednesday, April 26:  Aslan Fundraiser – Bellingham Beer Week
As part of Bellingham Beer Week, the good folks at Aslan brewing are donating 9% of all drink sales to 9 non-profits in our community. So, swing by Aslan on Wednesday the 26th, have a pint or two with us!
https://www.facebook.com/events/413339629045326/

April 28  – May 7 – Unemployment Line Overhaul Sponsored by Terrain Gym:
Andrew Fletcher-Love and John Miller will once again take their “vacation” to give U Line its yearly overhaul.  They like to keep it to a small crew, but if they need help, we’ll let folks know.  Maybe some cleanup on the upper section of the trail or another area where they aren’t working.

Sunday, May 7 – Double Black Diamond Trail Day sponsored by Treelines Northwest
We will focus on Double Black Diamond working top down.  As usual, Adam and the Treelines folks will stoke folks out with great food and beverages.  Bill Hawk is leading this day.
https://www.facebook.com/events/344503942614505/

Friday, May 12  – Rock n Roll Trail day sponsored by Kulshan Brewing:
Come kick off Cinco de Mayo right by getting Rock n Roll dialed in for summer.  We’ll make sure there’s plenty of Lager or Greenwood IPA ready to go.  More info. here:
https://www.facebook.com/events/257953967998938/

June 10, Civic Dirt Jump build day
Join Michael Storm for another Civic DJ build day to get the jumps in great shape before the summer season hits.  They usually go from 9-12  and then there’s some time to ride after.  More details to come as we get closer to the date.

Logging:
The Janicki crew is still working in the Bunny / Kaya  / Art’s trail areas.  Thank you to everyone for respecting the closures for your safety and theirs!  We’ll let you know when we can get back in there and get the trails cleaned back up.

3.17.2017

Hi all,

A quick update before the weekend is upon us.  Trails are finally drying up and Sunday and Monday look to have some good weather…get out there and enjoy yourself!  Please note:  we still have Pump Track à Eagle Scout closed to let the dirt firm up after the recent Freehub Mag build day.  Also, don’t forget that our Google Calendar is always up-to-date and a good source to see what’s going on with the WMBC.
https://wmbcmtb.org/wmbc-calendar-of-events/

Logging:
The Janicki crew is still working in the Bunny / Kaya  / Art’s trail areas.  Thank you to everyone for respecting the closures for your safety and theirs!  We’ll let you know when we can get back in there and get the trails cleaned back up.

Upcoming Trail days:

• March 18th  (tomorrow) – Irish Death / Das Autobahn Sponsored by Iron Horse Brewery…meeting at the Samish lot at 9 AM.  Also, by K2 anytime during the day for a pint of Irish Death or a Greenwood IPA and Iron Horse and Kulshan will donate $1 per pint to the WMBC.  More details here:  https://www.facebook.com/events/398402180516314/

• March 25th (Saturday):  The Ridge Trail Sponsored by the Queens of Dirt…meeting at the Birch Street trailhead at 9 AM.   More details here:  https://www.facebook.com/events/1904327349814529/

• Saturday April 8th:  Civic Dirt Jump trail day led by Michael Storm from 9 AM – 3 PM.

• Sunday April 9th:  Double Black Diamond / Double Down  (TBD – this date move to the 1st or 2nd of April)

Demo Opportunities:

• Fanatik Demo Day:  Saturday the 18th (9AM – 6PM):  There will be demos from 6 bike brands for you to sample on our local trails.  Lady mountain bikers, join Jill Kintner at 10am for an all levels group ride on Galbraith Mountain, starting at their shop.  Swing by there an hour early if you want to join the ladies ride so you can take a demo bike for the ride. Evil, Knolly, Santa Cruz, Juliana, Devinci, Ibis, and Norco will all be with their demo fleets.  Also, Chris Mellick from RRAD will have a skills course set up in the parking lot for folks More here:   https://www.facebook.com/events/157181171461516/

• Transition Bikes Demo Day:  Sunday the 19th:  Transition will be setting up at the Dollar Lot on Galbraith Lane.  There will be a group ride leaving the lot at Noon and a bbq at 4 PM afterwards.  More details on their website (scroll down):  http://transitionbikes.com/

Cheers,
EB

2.24.2017

Freehub Trail day:
Bill Hawk and Brandon Watts will be leading crews on Evolution and PT à Eagle Scout tomorrow.  Meeting at the Samish Way lot at 9 AM if you’d like to help get those dialed for spring.  If you’re planning to ride tomorrow, please avoid those trails….thanks!  More details here:  https://www.facebook.com/events/274133373007683/

Upcoming Logging:
I’ll be meeting with Janicki’s crew on Monday, but they are planning to begin logging West of the Pipeline Road in the Kaya, Bunny and Art’s area next Thursday.  We’ll get in there early in the week to flag the heck out of the trails, so their machine operators can limit trail damage, but those trails will be closed until further notice beginning early in the week.

Also, there will be a LOT of truck traffic on the Pipeline Road while harvest activity is taking place.  As such, we’ll ask folks to try to ride from the north side or begin your rides after mid-afternoon when their crews are off the hill.  If you encounter logging trucks during a ride, we’d ask you to please pull over and let them pass through since we only have one entrance/exit on that side of the hill now.

Have a great weekend everyone.

Cheers,
EB

12.01.2016

Folks,

Jack’s and the Homegrown Racing Team are sponsoring a trail day this Saturday to work on Miranda, The Ridge and plan to continue their singletrack climb route up the hill.

Few trails, if any, see more traffic on the hill, so come help get the primary north side access in great shape for the winter!  They will be meeting at the Birch Street Trailhead at 9 AM….parents, this is a VERY kid-friendly trail day since the kiddos can work on Miranda.  As always, come prepared for weather, but the Jack’s crew has food and drinks covered.

https://www.facebook.com/events/275974242799112/

Cheers,
EB

11.21.2016
Hi all,

Reminder!  If you’re in town for the holiday this weekend, we’re hosting a family-friendly dig and ride day on Friday.  Come on out and work off some of that excessive food and drink!

Our current plan is to meet along the 1000 / Pipeline road intersection just past Last Call / New issues (see map) at 9 AM.  We’ll have coffee, hot chocolate, food, etc. in the AM and lunch at Noon.  After lunch, we are encouraging those who have bikes, to head out for a ride.   For those with younger kiddos, we do need the parents to ride with and be responsible for their kids…if you so choose to ride after the dig portion of the day.

https://www.facebook.com/events/573913216127827/

I hope everyone has a great Turkey Day!

Cheers,
EB

11.15.2016
Hi all,

We’re instituting  our mid-week build days again on Wednesdays to accommodate those with different work schedules.  If you want to participate in those, please email EB directly to be added to the email list.  Tomorrow, we’ll be working on Gate and Switch and Last Call and meeting at 9 AM at the Samish Lot.

Upcoming events:

Saturday, November 19th – Build day on SST sponsored by Fanatik.  Meeting at Samish lot at 9 AM.  The plan is to work above and below the first road crossing.  The upper part of the trail WILL BE SHUT DOWN during the build day.
https://www.facebook.com/events/993301824113296/

Friday , November 25th – OptOutside build and ride day – Instead of spending the day shopping at the mall, we are encouraging our members to get out for some digging and riding….work off some of that Thanksgiving meal!!   This will be VERY friendly build day….join us for all or part of the day.  Meeting at 9 AM at the Samish Lot and then driving in to do some digging, lunch and then riding.  We’ll most likely
https://www.facebook.com/events/573913216127827/

Tuesday, November 29th – DNR Public Planning Meeting at BTC Settlemeyer Hall (same place as Shoot the Trails) from 5-8 PM.  As someone on the Rec Planning Committee, I can say that we’ve made a lot of progress to lay the groundwork for future trail networks, but also have a LOT more to do in the coming year before anything will be finalized.  I just want to set expectations as to where we are in this process!
https://www.facebook.com/events/1613984508901306/

Saturday, December 3rd – The Ridge and Miranda build day sponsored by Jack’s Homegrown Racing.  We’ll meet at Birch Trailhead at 9 AM.  More details to come.
https://www.facebook.com/events/275974242799112/

Cheers,
EB

10.28.2016

Morning folks!

Reminder that we’re going to be working on Double Down tomorrow morning.  Meet at the Clayton Beach / Lost Lake Parking lot at 9 AM and then we’ll hike up (working bottom-up). Dress weather appropriate!

https://www.facebook.com/events/775289815958372/

Also, Whoopsie Woodle is closed until further notice. A logging crew is going through and thinned a section of it leaving it impassable. They will be done today and we’ll get up early in the week to clear it out.  The entrance has been flagged off to notify folks.

Cheers,
EB

9.21.2016

Hi folks,

The rain and cooler temps are finally back and we are celebrating National Public Lands Day by giving some love to the trails on Larrabee State Park.  In particular, our plan is to get Double Black and Double Down back in shape after a long, dry summer and the extra traffic from our recent Enduro race.

Time and Location:
We are meeting at 9 AM at the Lost Lake (aka, Clayton Beach) parking lot which is by the bathrooms and Fragrance Lake Road. We’ll have coffee/bagels for the AM and lunch in the afternoon.

What to bring:
As usual, dress for the weather, bring some water or snacks and boots/gloves for working. We’ll have plenty of trail tools ready to go.

** PLEASE NOTE: Discover Passes are NOT necessary for this day.

Cheers,
EB

10.25.2016

Hi all,

The Washington Wildlife and Recreation Program (WWRP) supports outdoor recreation and preserving natural spaces in Washington State.  Please take 2 minutes to sign on to a letter asking our legislature to continue funding their programs at the same (or better yet, higher) level.  This funding will be helping the WMBC as we start to get authorized trails going with the DNR and other land managers.

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSf5A_7MGwZZZuaV126P5PzisfaKsYiCD1gtuQTkq0OTeE6I-A/viewform

If you’d like to read their full letter, you can do so here:
http://www.wildliferecreation.org/getinvolved/wwrp-funding-request-sign-on-letter/at_download/file

Larrabee Trailday this Saturday:
We need to get some dirt work done on Double Down now that the dirt has some moisture.  We’ll be meeting at Clayton Beach/ Lost Lake Parking lot at 9 AM and heading up from there.  We do have additional plans in the works in the park this winter, but we need to get our trails back into good shape first and foremost.

Details here:
https://www.facebook.com/events/775289815958372/

Cheers,
EB

9.6.2016

Hi all,

If any of you are planning to ride this Thursday, consider going for a ride out on Blanchard instead.

The WMBC is co-hosting an event on Blanchard with the Commissioner of Public Lands, Peter Goldmark, and several of our legislators.  The plan is to have the various stakeholders and legislators up on the mountain to strategize how to fund the remaining 700 acres from future timber harvest.  You can read more about hit here:
https://wmbcmtb.org/2016/02/02/advocacy-alert-help-save-1600-acres-on-blanchard-mountain/

We’ll be up at the paraglider take off at the Samish Overlook between 12 and 1 and then going for a hike after that.  It would be great to see some mountain bikers up there.  You don’t have to do anything beyond riding your bike….just ride to the lookout and then go on your merry way!

Cheers,
Eric

8.19.2016

Morning all,

I hope you are enjoying our beautiful weather and getting out for some ride and lake time.  This weather’s great, but am I the only one that’s really starting to miss the rain?  Come January, I’m sure I’ll want someone to throat punch me for that comment.  Two things for you all today:

REMINDER!!   DNR Recreation Survey:
As part of the Recreation Planning process for Whatcom County, the DNR wants to hear from you.  In our committee meetings, all of the user groups have been honest about where their respective users recreate currently, so please be honest with them in this survey!  It only takes 5-10 minutes, so tell them where you recreate and what you’d like to see from them.   TAKE THIS SURVEY!!
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/MJLX6LJ

Burn Ban:
The DNR has officially banned outdoor fires until we get rain and cooler temps.
http://www.dnr.wa.gov/news/dnr-bans-campfires-across-state

Cheers,
EB

8.11.2016
Morning all,

Be Considerate.
We’re creating a new campaign as a reminder for trail users that access Galbraith through neighborhoods to “Be Considerate”.  As such, we’re installing signs near the exits of the mountain (and parking lots) to serve as reminders for folks to have their dogs on leash on their way on/off the mountain.   Additionally, we’ve had a few complaints from neighbors about riders bombing down the streets and residents nearly hitting them as they pull out of their driveways….so we also have  “Ride Slow” signs as well. Thanks for your help with self-policing on these issues.

CDC Race:
The CDC Enduro on August 27th has officially announced the race courses (broken down into 3 groups:  expert/pro, sport and beginner class).  You can see the course maps and read the routing descriptions here: http://www.cascadiadirtcup.org/chuckanut_course
Volunteers:  We are still looking for volunteers for the race (parking, timing, course marshals, venue tear down, etc.).  Reminder that the Cascadia Dirt Cup gives back to each organization hosting the event, so the WMBC will raise funds from this event.  If you’d like to help the event out, shoot and email to wmbcmtb@gmail.com and Allie Evans will get back to you about what items are open and what works best for you.  Also, we’ll have a trail day on Wednesday, August 24th to clean up some pedal/bar grabbers on Raptor Ridge and do some brushing on 2 dollar and Lost lake trail.

Enjoy this upcoming warm stretch of weather!

Cheers,
EB

8.1.2016

Hi all,

A few things to discuss this beautiful Monday.  Please feel free to share with your riding friends.

DNR Survey:
As part of the Recreation Planning process for Whatcom County, the DNR wants to hear from you.  In our committee meetings, all of the user groups have been honest about where they’re respective users recreate currently, so please be honest with them in this survey!  It only takes 5-10 minutes, so tell them where you recreate and what you’d like to see from them.
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/MJLX6LJ

WMBC Survey Closing on Tuesday:
We’re closing our 2016 Survey tomorrow (Tuesday) evening.  Most of you have filled it out, but I figured I’d send it along one last time.
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/wmbc2016

Chuckanut CDC Enduro (August 27th):
There are 175 people signed up for the Chuckanut Enduro already.  This event will sell out as it’s a stop on the North American Enduro Tour, so you should register asap.  We’ll be doing a bit of brushing and trimming of pedal/bar grabbers in the coming weeks, if you’d like to help with that, let me know.  Also, unless we get some rain, we won’t do any dirt work….hopefully we’ll get some rain so we can do some dirt work, but it’s not looking good.  The courses have changed and the Pro/Expert class, Sport Class and Beginner Classes will have different courses to better accommodate varying skill/fitness levels and to encourage more folks to give an enduro race a try.  Register here:
http://www.cascadiadirtcup.org/chuckanut

Also, if you’d like to volunteer for the race (EMS, timing, course marshals, parking, etc.), email us at wmbcmtb@gmail.com  I promise we’ll take good care of you and you’ll have the unending gratitude of our racers.

Cheers,
EB

7.22.2016
Hi all,

As most of you know, we’ve been busting our butts the past couple of months to get the new Tower Road Connector and bridge done.  It’s been stressful for all involved and, frankly, I think our crew of builders have outdone themselves with a critical project for access on the south-side.

The bridge had its final rails installed on Tuesday and tomorrow (Saturday), we’re going to finish cleaning up the bridge zone, do a little bit of buffing on the trail (which is really dry, so most work won’t happen until Fall) and we may send a few folks out with weed-eaters to get some issues tackled nearby.

Gateway Controls is sponsoring our day tomorrow.  Being that it’s at the base of the mountain, it will be very kid-friendly and we’ll have tasks for kids ready to go.  As usual, we’re meeting at the Samish Way parking lot at 9 AM, but we’d ask anyone that can ride/hike in to meet us at Last Call or the bridge zone around 9:20 or any time after.  We will need to haul some materials around the mountain, so a couple of trucks will be needed.  If all goes as planned, we should be able to be off the hill by 1 or 2.

https://www.facebook.com/events/1327313653962800/

Cheers,
EB

7.1.2016

Howdy folks,

We’re having another brushing work party tomorrow (Saturday) to tackle some of the worst remaining trails.  Details below from Javon Smith – who will be leading this day again.  On our last brushing  day, they knocked out a ton of trails – even in the downpour.

Thanks Javon!!!

Divide and conquer brushing day on Saturday, July 2. 

If you have a gas powered weedeater, tune that sucker up and let’s get some trails brushed! If you have a leaf blower, bring that too. Don’t forget long pants/shirt and ear/eye protection if you plan to run a machine. We’ll have several available as well. 

Meeting at the Samish lot at 9 AM and heading up in teams of 3 (2 brushers and a raker/blower) and tackle as many trails as possible.

EB

6.20.2016
Happy Solstice ya’ll!

If folks have some free time this week, we’ll be working on getting more work done on the new bridge near Lost Giants.  Holler at me if you have any availability.  There are lots of little tasks that even an hour or two can help us move along.   I’m planning to be out most of the week on that, so holler if you have a day that you can get out to help.   We’re going to plan to have a build day next Saturday to get the bulk of the structure in place.  More details on that as we get progress on this project during the week….but it’s currently our number one priority.

Also, tonight is the summer solstice and a bunch of folks will be out riding to celebrate the longest day of the year.  There’s going to be a gathering up near the Sandystone area (near the top of wonderland) sometime after 7’ish until dark.  Bring some libations and charge up your lights if you plan to stay out ‘til dark.

Cheers,
EB

6.17.2016
Hi all,

We’re doing a divide and conquer brushing day on Saturday (tomorrow) sponsored by Trailhead Athletics.  If you have a gas powered weed-eater, tune that sucker up and let’s get some trails brushed!  If you have a leaf blower, bring that too.  Don’t forget long pants/shirt and ear/eye protection if you plan to run a machine.  We’ll have several available as well.

Folks will be meeting at the Samish lot at 9 AM and heading up in teams of 3 (2 brushers and a raker/blower) and tackle as many trails as possible.

There will also be a handful of folks working on the new connector bridge.  If there are extra folks available, we’ll send them over in that direction to help with de-barking posts/stingers, etc.

https://www.facebook.com/events/996292833811053/

Cheers,
EB

5.19.2016
Good morning all,

Good news!  Cleator road is currently closed for grading work and long-overdue repairs by State Parks.  If you prefer a bit of solitude at the top of Cyrus Gates overlook, now is the time to head up Fragrance Lake Road for a ride or a hike.  More about it here:
http://www.bellinghamherald.com/news/local/article78205147.html

Saturday, June 11th – Take a Kid Mountain Biking Day:
This year, we’re adding another TAKMB Day at Lake Padden.  Bring your kiddos out for the afternoon!
https://www.facebook.com/events/1055123607891012/

Upcoming Traildays:

Saturday, May 21st – Three Pigs sponsored by Bellingham and Whatcom County Firefighters Local 106.
Meeting at the Galbraith Lane / Samish Way Parking lot at 9 AM.  The focus will be on brushing and dialing in some recent routing changes to the trail.
https://www.facebook.com/events/1722617981348604/

Saturday, June 4th –  National Trails Day on Blanchard Mountain…. sponsored by REI and coordinated with DNR.
We’ll be meeting at the Lower Parking lot / trailhead.
https://www.facebook.com/events/952285238214024/

Saturday, June 18th – Brushing party – Sponsored by Trailhead Athletics.
This will be a Divide and Conquer day to address the most needed trails.  If you have a gas-powered weedeater and want to help, this would be a great day to join.
https://www.facebook.com/events/996292833811053/

Cheers,
EB

5.10.2016
Howdy folks,

I hope you’re getting out on the trails!!   Weather’s looking stellar for the weekend (all week, actually) and we’re planning to have two traildays:

Saturday – SST:  We’ll be working on SST with the folks at Fanatik Bikes.  NOTE:  We will be meeting at 9 AM at the Lake Padden parking lot near the dog park (see attached map).  If you would prefer to ride to join us, we’ll be staging at the road crossing below the big rock roll (1200 Road).
https://www.facebook.com/events/1711001942510177/

Sunday – Cedar Dust:  We’ll be working on Cedar Dust with the Kulshan Cycles folks.  We will be meeting at the Samish / Galbraith Lane Parking Lot at 9 AM and then staging near the end of Cedar Dust closest to Rock n Roll (Road 1210 spur).
https://www.facebook.com/events/195816400804523/

2016 Trail Survey:
Every couple of years, we ask you to take 5-10 minutes to fill this trail survey out.  It’s an important tool for us when we speak to our local land managers about the usage we have on our trail networks and the value you find in easy access in our area.   So, PLEASE, take a few minutes to fill this out (if you haven’t already).   https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/wmbc2016

Thanks, and let’s give some love to a couple of the most used trails on the mountain!

Cheers,
EB

4.12.2016
Howdy folks,

If you’re not going to be out helping on Hush Hush or Grasshopper this Sunday, Andy Basabe has organized a Blanchard Mountain Awareness ride/run at 11 AM – meeting at the Lower Lily/Lizard Trail parking lot.

Detail are below or you can email Andy here:    basabeatbaker@gmail.com

Cheers,
EB

Hello All,

Quick reminder, areas of Blanchard Mountain will be logged beginning spring 2017 unless our state legislature funds the purchase of adjacent lands to protect the core area.  A map is attached to the email. More info can be found here:

http://www.bellinghamherald.com/news/local/article58788683.html

Areas within the proposed Core Area to be protected include:
▪  Lily and Lizard lakes and the campsites by each lake.
▪  Oyster Dome viewpoint.
▪  North Butte viewpoint.
▪  Samish Overlook.
▪  About 8 miles out of a total of 11 1/2 miles of trail in Blanchard Forest.

This coming Sunday there will be an opportunity for folks to show their support for Blanchard Mountain, and demonstrate to Washington’s elected officials the importance of public access to healthy trails on Blanchard Mountain.

Everyone is invited to join us for a run/ride, a sharing of the trails.  

What:  15ish miles of mountain biking and running over Blanchard and up to the top of Cleator Rd in the Chuckanuts.

Beginning at the Lily/Lizard Lake trailhead, up and over Blanchard, down British Army, across the valley over the logging roads, and back by Lost Lake via the Rock Trail up to the top of Cleator.  About 15 miles. Once at the top of Cleator Rd, folks can choose to head back to Bellingham via the Ridge Trail, or down to the interurban.  Hiking is totally viable, but will take much longer.

When: Sunday April 17, be ready to ride or run at 11AM

Where: The lower parking lot for Lily/Lizard Lakes, directions below.  

Why: To bring attention to the potential demise of some of these trails.  

There will be salmon, snacks, and beverages at the top of Cleator Rd for all present, until supplies run out.

Please carpool, and park in areas that won’t affect the regular users of these parks and trails.  The lot at the top of Cleator Rd is small, please try and park at the bottom of the road, or the North Chuckanut Parking Lot.

There will be directions for those unfamiliar with the trails connecting the two areas, and flagging will be used to indicate the correct route.  Nice people will be present at the Lily/Lizard Lake parking lot to help get people organized.

Directions to Lily/Lizard Lakes Trailhead

http://www.wta.org/go-hiking/hikes/lily-lake-trail

Directions to the fiesta at the top of Cleator Rd

Turn east off Chuckanut Drive on Hiline Rd, near milepost 16, cross the interurban trail, and head up the gravel road.

3.31.2016

Morning Folks,

I hope you are enjoying this sunshine and getting some Vitamin D!!   We have two traildays this Sunday….get in where you fit in!

The Jack’s Queens of Dirt are sponsoring a trailday on the Ridge.   They’re going to meet at Birch street at 9 and continue the work of keeping Miranda / Ridge running great!  Details are here:
https://www.facebook.com/events/450220021838268/

Skagit Naturopathic is sponsoring a trailday on wonderland.  They’ll meet at the Samish Way parking lot at 9 and work bottom up to take care of the many drainage issues on the trail.  Details are here:
https://www.facebook.com/events/1600424243612621/

Evolution:  We’ll be working on Evo the next couple of days with the hopes of opening up asap.  Holler at me if you’d like to help make that happen sooner than later.

Mullet:  Lots of changes have been happening on Mullet the past couple of weeks.  Please, ride with caution and look before you leap as the wooden table after the road crossing was falling apart and has now turned into a gap jump and several lips have been adjusted.  Those will see further adjustments asap.

Last, if you’ve not heard, Transition Bikes and Kulshan Brewing are hosting a party at Kulshan on Kentucky (aka, K2) Saturday night to celebrate their new collaboration – Party In The Woods IPA.  If you can’t make it, it’s also available at all Haggen Stores as of yesterday.  Get Some!

Cheers,
EB

3.17.2016

Howdy folks,

The Chuckanut 50 K will have runners all over Chuckanut Mountain on Saturday morning. We would highly advise mountain bikers to avoid the area at least until mid-afternoon on Saturday.  
http://chuckanut50krace.com/

McGazzapaloozers, the last of the runners will be heading up DBD as you are all meeting at the Clayton Beach Parking lot. If you get to the top and runners are still coming up the trail (there is an aid station at the top of Cleator), you should either get an upper Ridge lap in, enjoy the view with a frosty beverage or, better yet…do both!

Runners, have a great race!

Trailday Reminder: 
Jeff Jaap is leading a crew on Lower Woodle/ Lair of the Bear on Saturday morning.  Meeting at the Samish Way / Galbraith lane Parking lot at 9 AM….I’m sure Jeff could use some experienced crew to help him out!

Cheers,
EB

3.14.2016

Howdy folks,

A few important updates for you and your input is needed.

As always, I fully appreciate your support!

Cheers,
EB

DNR Recreation Planning:
We had our first DNR Rec Planning Meeting last Tuesday night and there are 17 people on the committee representing all of the various recreation groups.  Glenn Gervais and I are on the committee to represent the mountain bike community.
Our homework assignment for the next month is to gather as much input/feedback on where people are recreating and potential future recreation locations.  While I know where most folks are riding their bikes, it’s always good to get that information directly from folks.  PLEASE send me an email with “DNR Recreation” in the subject line and then let me know the areas of high importance to you, cool viewpoints or destinations we should know about, etc..  I’ve attached the DNR’s map of Whatcom County to help you view and identify the various areas.  It is also worth noting that the DNR is very aware of the areas that ALL user groups are recreating currently, so you are not “giving away any secrets” by saying you ride your mountain bike somewhere in particular.https://kevinmenard.files.wordpress.com/2016/03/dnr_map_whatcom_county.pdf

Wednesday / Mid-week traildays:
In the past, I’ve heard from a lot of people who can’t make it out for our typical weekend traildays – whether it’s due to work, family commitments or whatever.  As such, we’ve instituted “Wednesday Traildays” to help folks out and to tackle smaller projects that need some attention.  Each week, the proejct will change depending on what’s needed, the weather, etc.   While we’re trying to keep them consistently on Wednesdays, we could shift that around based on the weather or other obligations.

For these days, we’re meeting at 9 AM at the Samish Way / Galbraith Lane Parking Lot and then heading up from there.  People can bounce whenever they need to, but we’re aiming  to go ‘til 1.  Email me if you’re interested in those days and I’ll add you to a specific “mid-week” email list so you can get the details for each Wednesday.

Upcoming traildays:
We’ve instituted a Google Calendar to better help people plan.  Utilize this for your future trailday and event plans.  Next up, Jeff Jaap is leading a trailday on Lower Woodle (Aka, Lair of the Bear) this Saturday and he’s got plenty of projects that need some horsepower from a big crew.
http://wmbcmtb.org/wmbc-calendar-of-events/

Upcoming Trail Days Here:
Saturday March 19th
Lair of the Bear

Saturday, March 26th
Grasshopper – Manualmike.com

Sunday April 3rd
Ridge Trail Sponsored by Queens of Dirt and
Wonderland Trail – Sponsored by Skagit Naturopathic

Sunday, April 10th
Grasshopper – Manualmike.com

Sunday, April 17th
Hush Hush

Windapocalypse 2016:  The Sawyers strike Back!
Ma Nature brought it.  We answered back.
Just another example of our community taking a day or two off the bike and absolutely slaying it to keep the trails running great!
http://wmbcmtb.org/2016/03/14/windapocalypse-2016-the-sawyers-strike-back/

————————————
Eric Brown
Trail Director, Whatcom Mountain Bike Coalition
C:    206-399-8347
E:    ebxtreme@earthlink.net
W:  www.wmbcmtb.org