Elk Rim Trails Not Ready to Ride
Fernie Trails volunteer Pat Gilmar hiked the Elk Rim Trails on Friday March 5th and confirmed that the Elk Rim Trails are NOT ready to ride.
Pat commented that, “Pedal bikes should avoid the Elk Rim trails for now, another couple of week of sunshine is needed”.
So, when is it appropriate to ride trails in the spring? The answer depends on where you are, what the characteristics and needs of the local environment are, and what local trail builders have to say about it. The best answer to this question is to contact your local trail association, or the builders themselves. The folks who give their time and muscle to build the trails will always be the best to determine when they should be ridden.
In Fernie we have a lot of clay and poor drainage so spring riding can damage the trails. Steeper trails dry quicker however these trails are the last to lose their snowcover.
South Country offers good riding before Fernie’s trails open however they too have mud issues. Before heading to Cranbrook check the Wildhorse Cycling Club for conditions.
Be respectful and keep all trails and trail builders happy!
Tags: Elk Rim Trails, muddy trails, south country trails, spring trails, Wildhorse Cycling Club