Patapsco - Avalon - Conditions

[vonEck]

From MORE's Patapsco trail liaison:

6/12/03

Patapsco will have some dry sections, but most of it will
be wet for a solid week after rain. The fields drain over the trails and the
ground is so saturated with water that we just shouldn't be out there any time
soon. Even after a week of high temps, wind and no rain, Patapsco will be wet.
Please stay off for now.

[riderx]

Checked it out on 6/11 before a number of the big storms and it was in rough shape. We've had a lot of rain since then.

I live right by the Park & Ride and pass it everyday. People still are riding the day after the rain or sometimes in the afternoon when it's rained in the morning. There are some spots that are seriously in bad shape and the trail is being widened by people afraid to ride through mud puddles. I'm afraid access issues might start rearing their ugly head soon.

With conditions like they are now, you've got to wait at least 48 hours (and probably more) after a moderate rain and far longer after the heavy stuff we've been having.

[dan_hudson]

Summary... Not quite ready. While significant sections are okay, there are still many long muddy stretches and a bunch of large extended bogs. The muddy sections are long and numerous enough to make it difficult to put together a loop which will not cause damage. Where folks have been riding in the mud, significant trail widening has occured. If you're brushing up against foiliage to stay dry, odds are you're widening the trail!

------

Did a dawn patrol this AM...

I'd say 50% or more is fine. This consists mostly of the side-hill trail sections, Ridge (orange) for example.

Most of the rest is muddy but passable. Specifically, the tread will be mostly mud with a strip of dry tread on one side or the other. Note in most cases this dry part is the result of trail widening. Alot of Morning Choice and the flatter parts of Cascade and Ridge are like this.

The rest is a bog. Most of the spots you'd expect but there are also a few new ones. Large parts of the Rockburn Branch fall into this category. Especially the section in no-mans land (i.e. unmaintained by the farm).

I didn't ride any of the Balt Co side.

Most of the users are MTBs. Only on the Rockburn Branch were there signs of horses (hooves and fresh dookie). Some of the mudholes are quite bad - 15 or so foot across as riders go wider and wider in search of dry land.

------

Final words... If you simply must ride Avalon, please put some thought into your loop. Experienced users should be able to figure out where it's likely to be muddy. Stick to trails like Ridge (orange) and consider using pavement to connect up your loop.

But the better option is to stay away a bit longer!

[Balto Charlie]

I was at Patapsco Avalon Balto Co side and didn't think it was that bad, not great but rideable. If folks don't ride the mud pits they should be fine. I would put the trails at 75%. Vineland was good, a few mud pits but the beginning (park and ride entrance) was wet. Let's put it this way I rode my mnt.bike (for road) with slicks and didn't have too many problems slipping and that was going UP the vineland trail. I know HoCo side always has some nasty mud sites, near the sheep farm for instance. I think you're right in directing them to certain trails. People who ride regularly there will know where to and not go. Charlie

[riderx]

Monday, 7/7/03 Update

Heavy thunderstorms at Avalon last night (Sunday 7/6/03). Stay off the trails for at least 24 hours. More thunderstorms in the forecast though, so it might be longer.

[riderx]

Thursday, 7/10/03
Thunderstorms at Avalon again last night/yesterday afternoon.
Unfortunately, you know the drill.

[riderx]

Monday 7/14 Update

Despite sunny days on Fri. and Sat., Saturday night thunderstorms took their toll on Avalon again. As of 5pm Sunday the the Vineland trail was wet, muddy and full of tire tracks/ruts. This is a good baramoter for what the rest of the park is like. Possibly by Tues. afternoon some trails will in shape to ride.

[riderx]

Tuesday 7/15
Hiked the Soapstone Branch and Bull Run this afternoon. Soapstone is drying out and should be rideable tomorrow which mean some others should be also. Bull Run is completely swamped out in some very long sections and had running water in spots I've never seen more than soft.

Another rider reported muddy conditions Monday afternoon on the Landing Rd. side near Rockburn as well as Morning Choice. Overall he said there were quite a few bad spots.

Bottome Line: Select trails will be rideable Wed. provided there is no rain. Make your choices wisely, there are still lots of sections that should be avoided like the farm trail by Belmont, Bull Run, Morning Choice and anything that holds water or is low-lying.

[riderx]

7/19
Avalon has been drying out nicely, most stuff is dry and rideable.

For the more adventurous types, there are still some muddy areas in the sections of Patapsco that lies between Daniels and the MD Job Corps (Woodstock area). A lot has dried out, but plenty is soft or muddy with lots of horse hoof damage. Areas between the North Branch of the Patapsco River and the Job Corp are doing much better.

[riderx]

7/23
We got heavy rain at Avalon last night (Tues. 7/22), so let the trails dry for at least 24 hours (more depending on the trail). I rode prior to the storm and things were generally in good shape. The bottom of Vineland near the stone tunnel was very wet though. Damp spots here and there with a few small mud holes around. Some sections were actually dry and dusty.

[Balto Charlie]

Just got back from some great riding in Brevard/Asheville NC over the last 10 days. Really great trails and few riders but lots of rain. I rode Avalon yesterday(8/3/3). It was in really great shape. You guys must have had some dry weather for a change. Unfortunately we (Catonsville: Avalon)had a lot of rain (i mean a lot) in the evening and night that probably screwed up the trails for today (at least).
Charlie

[Balto Charlie]

Rode avalon this evening and it was in fairly good shape. Some mud puddles but not many. Balto Co side was better than Ho Co. Ridge trail was good until you got near Belmont, Belmont feilds were bone dry but when you got back into the woods it got a little sloppy. Soapstone trail was dry. The worst trail I rode was the trail that hits the valley floor after soapstone (don't know the name) it was wet and muddy. Charlie

[Ethanc]

Rode Avalon yesterday... conditions weren't bad in many areas, but there were also some extremely muddy areas. It was the first time I've ridden the area in a few years so I can't remember all of the trail names... I apologize.

Mostly bikers out, but also some some horseback riders. It needs to dry a bit more, so let's hope for no rain.

[Balto Charlie]

Just rode the Balto Co side of Patapsco Avalon and it's in great shape. The best I've seen this year. The lower section of the vineland trail was wet. We will have to do something about that. A spring will have to be diverted. A couple of mud holes but not many. The trail down from the water tower has a potentially dangerous mud hole, deep and rutted just when you 're at full speed (it can also be a lot of fun). Be careful. I don't know the condition of the Ho Co side. Charlie

[riderx]

I rode both sides of Avalon last night. Generally in good shape, but I definitely wouldn't say it's the best I've seen it all year. The majority of the trails are dry but there are plenty of mud holes that need work and cheater-lines and trail widening continue. Remember, ride through the mud puddles and let's keep the singletrack single.

[Balto Charlie]

Where did you think it was bad on the Balto Co side. I know the lower Vineland but where else? Just curious as I didn't bike all of it. . This has been the driest period for the last 6 months. Charlie

[riderx]

Soapstone had more wet/muddy spots than I expected for the dry days we've had lately. The trail that parrallels Vineland and comes out at the wooden bridge/railroad tunnel is pretty wet in spots - the trail has no name that I no of. Some of buzzard rock parrallel to Hilltop Rd has some deep mud holes.

We got pretty heavy rain Saturday night, but I expected some spots to have dried out better.

Overall rideable, not necessarily bad, but I have seen it better this year (believe it or not! :D )

[riderx]

Tuesday 8/26/2003

Heavy thunderstorms hit here this evening, give the trails some time to dry.

[riderx]

Thursday 8/28/2003
Heavy storms at Avalon again last night. Need a couple of days of dry weather at this point.

[riderx]

Saturday 8/30/2003
Since a lot of area rain has been localized, I figured I'd keep things up to date here. We had SEVERE thunderstorms again yesterday, the heaviest we have had lately, making for 3 out of 4 days of rain. Looks like it's asphalt for the weekend riding.

[buckwheat]

Patapsco Avalon Trail Conditions- Sunday 9/7/03

As of 12:00 this afternoon the trail is in pretty good shape. There are the usual wet and muddy spots but I was suprised at the overall dryness after so much rain the last 10 days or so. Some of the poor draining areas have a bit of standing water but others are thickening up nicely. Will post again soon as I expect to ride early this week.

[riderx]

Thursday 9/11/03
Rode Avalon last night, things have finally dried out and the temps were great. The quickly fading daylight is a bummer though.

Also, in case everyone hasn't noticed, MORE has some fall work days planned for Avalon on Sunday, October 26 and Sunday, November 23. Lots of work to be done after the wet spring and summer we have had. More details here (http://www.more-mtb.org/story.php?catID=1).

[fatoldguy]

Avalon
Sunday 9-21-03

WOW! Took off from Landing Rd, Belmont loop, down to Ridge and back up Blue. A lot of HUGE trees down, I mean a lot! I have never seen so many down at one time. It is going to take a lot of work to repair the trails....
I am going to check out the Baltimore County side on Wednesday and will post an update.
Any word on McKeldin? Is the race still on for 9-28?

[riderx]

Originally posted by fatoldguy
I am going to check out the Baltimore County side on Wednesday and will post an update. If you are going to Avalon on Wed. I hope you are walking and not riding. The trails are hurting from people riding to soon after the rain and we got hammered again last night w/ several inches of heavy rain.

[fatoldguy]

If you are going to Avalon on Wed. I hope you are walking and not riding. The trails are hurting from people riding to soon after the rain and we got hammered again last night w/ several inches of heavy rain.

Well, if the trails on the Balto County side are anything like the HoCo side then hiking is the only real option! Oh, how I long for dusty singletrack....

[fatoldguy]

I rode the Baltimore County side this aftenoon. Trails are relatively dry; they are wet in the usual places but nothing horrible. The deadfall was remarkable, however the good news is there is significantly less on the Baltimore County side than on the Howard County side. Still quite a few big ones are down and you have to climb over/under/around. Pulled quite a few nice sized branches from spokes, pulleys, hubs, etc. The river is running very high and appears by my untrained eye to be within 5 feet or so of overwash in a couple of places - that would be a real mess. I took pix and anyone can email me if interested. I'll try and attach a view of one of the bigger trees...

It's a no brainer that we need to start cleanng this mess up. My buds and I have been clearing what we can by hand but what is really needed are power tools - chain saws and winches. We are ready, willing and able - we just need the resources and we'll hop on it. Ideas?

[fatoldguy]

The root ball for this monster is the dirt clod sitting above my bars, the trunk extends out from this going straight down the trail about 200+ feet. The tree's canopy is also on the trail making for some fun hiking an additional 150 feet or so. Notice the ground falls off to your left so you basically walk this thing like a tightrope...I am lovin' those big, long Sidi toe studs!

[fatoldguy]

Avalon Saturday 9-27-03

Rode both sides today - pretty much hit it all. Dryer than it has been in awhile... Deadfall situation is much improved, lots of nice ramps setup on the big logs. Thanks to all who have been working hard to clean up. Hopefully the rain tonight will be a light one...

[fatoldguy]

Avalon Thursday 10-2-03

Beautiful day for a ride. We rode both sides of the river and the trails are in good condition. There is quite a bit of leaf litter so you have to keep paying attention.... Thanks to all who have contributed to the post-Isabel cleanup. Baltimore county side is lookin' sweet. Howard county side still has a couple of big ones down which are defying attempts to saw them up.

[fatoldguy]

Avalon Thu 10-16-03

Trails are in fairly good shape overall. Howard County side is still drying from rains earlier; Baltimore County side is looking good. The only caveat are the hunters on the Baltimore County side. They are setting up tree stands near the park-n-ride trailhead. I think, I am not sure, that hunting is restricted to the Baltimore County side and bow only. So, whatever you do, don't ride like a deer!

[riderx]

10/17
I'll add:
Last weekend (10/11, 10/12) the trails were, amazingly, the driest I have seen them overall for the entire year. The farm loop (Landing Road area) had actually dried out. I haven't been out since prior to Tuesday's rain, but with the good conditions I saw last weekend, I'm sure most trails have held up well.

Lots of people have been out clearing the debris from trop. storm Isabell. <thumbs up> Unfortunately, lots of unnecessary short cutting of obstacles has also been occurring. In some cases it is simply unavoidable. But, in most the obstacles are either rideable or you can easily dismount and climb over - let's keep the singletrack narrow!

Even worse, some idiot dumped a truckload of shingles and construction materials (on two seperate occassions) at the southern Soapstone trailhead last week. I contacted the park and they were quick to have it removed. Keep an eye out for these illegal dumpers.

Don't forget, trail maintenance day on Sunday Oct. 26 at 9:30

[riderx]

Trails are dry overall with a few scattered mudholes. Some blowdown remains from Isabell, but a lot has been cleared.

Temps are nice, leaves are starting to change. Go ride.

[Ethanc]

Rode Avalon yesterday - 10.19.2003 and it was a blast. Conditions were great. Mostly dry a few small muddy spots but nothing serious. The weather was warm enough, although my feet were pretty cold after the initial water crossings... I guess it's time to start wearing the long-sleeved jerseys and tights.

[riderx]

Avalon 10/28
When the rain stopped yesterday evening over 3 inches had fallen. Wow! That's a lot of water. Please give the trails at least 48 hours to dry out. Conditions have been generally good so most trails should be rideable fairly quickly but use good judgement.

Quite a few people came out on Sunday for trail maintenance and we got a lot of work done on the Morning Choice trail. Big thanks to everyone who spent time working.

[buckwheat]

Rode Avalon yesterday (11/22). Trails are pretty wet due to the rains of the past week. Leaf cover is also holding moisture and making things a bit slippery. Some of the trails that run along creek drainages are very wet and have standing/ running water. Of course all of the usual mud holes are in full bloom. Lots of riders when I was there (around 1:30 PM).

[riderx]

Avalon - Dec. 9, 2003

Lots of snow, some packed, some deep. Bare spots on trails that are exposed to sunlight. Those areas were solid because of the temps but very wet from snow melting during the day. A few new trees are down so keep on your toes.

With the rain in the forcast and the warming temps it's probably going to create a big melt-off and get ugly so use good judgment when considering a trail ride.

[riderx]

Avalon - Dec. 20
When it's frozen, it's fine to ride, trails are clear. However, when it's above freezing the ground is saturated and you shouldn't be riding. It will be a while before all of this has a chance to dry out. Please don't contribute to the damage that's already going on.

Merry Festivus!

[fatoldguy]

Clean, frozen, fast. Go ride.

[bikerRob]

01/10/04...Temp 20' Avalon...clean and clear...just watch out for the frozen spots....if you have rim brakes don't even think about riding thru the streams..;)

[bikerRob]

01/23/04>>>Temp. 20’, winds: 10-15 mph…..Great day for a ride! Okay you cabin-nappers tomorrow is Saturday so it’s time to get out and ride. Avalon is looking good. Everything fast and frozen. If you decide to ride Avalon or Rockburn tomorrow just be careful. There’s a lot of frozen, slick and dicey sections. As long as you take your time and keep your speed down you shouldn’t have too many problems. A word of caution; use your front brakes as little as you can. Most of my ride today I could hear the “crunch, crunch”, of my wheels as they rode over the white frosted trails. As long as I heard that sound, I knew I had traction. All the hills I rode I was able to climb without any problems ( lost of traction ). The stream on the “Morning Choice trail” was a little difficult to cross. A lot of the rocks I used to step across were frozen over and hard to see. To cross the stream here I would recommend taking the secondary trail that crosses a little further up stream. It was much easier to get across. To those of us who are not so nimble in the saddle I would also recommend elbow pads and flat pedals. By the time I finished, I was riding much faster as I got more of a feel of the conditions. Didn’t fall once….really. * see picture *ONCE AGAIN, DON'T EVEN THINK ABOUT GETTING YOUR RIMS WET IF YOU HAVE RIM BRAKES.

[fatoldguy]

Avalon 1-24-04

We rode Howard county and Baltimore county sides - frozen, ice ruts, cold, fun. Hopefully the new snow will fill in the ice ruts. Stream crossing are a hoot! Go for it! Get out and ride.

[riderx]

1/29/04 Avalon/Rockburn
Status: Buried. 8 inches of snow or so and nary a track of any sort to be found. The freezing rain we had between snow falls not only created a crust but made the snow dense and compact instead of the fluffy goodness that it started out as. More pushing than riding.

[fatoldguy]

Avalon 1-29-04

Ditto riderx. We tried hard. We are grabbing snowshoes now and going back out.... Get outside and play - it is nice even off the bike!

[bikerRob]

02/08/04>>Temp. 31*, trails- re-frozen snow and ice>> I really did make an effort to get this ride in today but I failed to heed my own advice. I should of went with the studded tires! I ended up bailing out after only 15 minutes. I knew if I continued it would of taken a lot of concentration not to fall on this sh** and I just wasn't in the mood. Of the trails I rode, all had remnants of the pass snow fall. In some areas, foot traffic had reduced the trails to what I will term." mini frozen craters". Lots of slick frozen over slush. Not good for traction thats for sure. While cutting thru Rockburn I took off across an untouched ball field. There was only about an inch or so of glazed over snow but it was like riding thru fly paper. If you stop pedaling you simply stop..period. I never did make it to Avalon. Tonight I'll be taking the road tires off my back-up wheels and putting on the Studded tires. I might give it a go tomorrow if I can get my lazy ( you know ) out of bed.

[bikerRob]

02/15/04>>> Temp. 34*>> I really was hoping someone else would of given a post on this ride. Nevertheless, needing a close-to-home ride today, I decided to venture forth into the unknown. For the most part the trails seemed to be a mixture of different surfaces. Occasional there would be stretches of dry dirt but for the most part there were longer stretches of hard-packed snow which had turned to ice, only to be followed with transitional areas that were a mixture of dirt, mud and ice. (ain't that nice ).
The good part was if you happened to have had a pair of studded tires on your bike, you could of gotten a nice ride today. If you didn't, some of the hills were more like bob-sled runs. While riding down the Morning Choice trail towards the stream (down hill ) I took a slow controlled fall. Still, it was no fun becoming a human bob-sled. I do have some studded tires but one wheel needs a new tube soooo...I left them home and went with the knobbies.
( note* Gore-tex seems to enhance the human bob-sled effect.) ;)

[Dobbs]

Sat. Feb 21 - Tried to ride from trailhead on Landing Road nearest to Ilchester Road (not up by Rockburn Park) into Patapsco. Too much mud, snow, and standing water. Tried Rockburn, which was only slightly better near disc golf course. Anyone find any reasonably dry areas? Don't want to damage trails any more than they are already.

[Balto Charlie]

Hey Just got back from a hike in Patapsco Avalon. Lots of surprises! I haven't been in this area since last fall. I hiked the Soapstone trail from the park and ride. Looks in good shape. Don't know how it will be when it thaws. I don't think too bad tho', trails are drying out. There's a "new' road that cuts through from the power lines near the bottom of soapstone and runs up through to the top of the ravine (1 over from soapstone)to the horse farm on Foxhall farms rd. I think this is a state project but don't see the purpose, Anybody know? Power line maintenance?? It's gravel and would be a drag to ride but does give another access pt. There's been some trail rerouting due to tree falls. Nothing major.

Also Keech Horse Farm wa sold recently. I don't think this will affect us. it is the farm off of Gun rd.

Does anyone know if Foxhall farms has been sold? This could affect mnt. biking in this area. Charlie

[wa2be]

I've ridden most of the Avalon area in the last 3 days. It's in pretty good condition considering the time of year and all the snow that was piled on for awhile. The worst area by far is the Ridge Trail. There's still a lot of thick mud, including a few stretches that are just too deep to even pedal through. I've had good rides from both the Landing Road side and the park-and-ride on 166. Most of the trails were dry or just slightly muddy, but I'm sure the rain this week will not help matters.

Mountain biking in February in shorts and a t-shirt.....you've gotta love Maryland!

[Dobbs]

Friday, March 5 Afternoon - Most of Soapstone and Bull Run trails were dry, with a few parts just slightly damp, giving decent traction and a smooth ride. Great day to ride.

[UpOnTwo]

Originally posted by wa2be
I've ridden most of the Avalon area in the last 3 days. It's in pretty good condition considering the time of year and all the snow that was piled on for awhile. The worst area by far is the Ridge Trail. There's still a lot of thick mud, including a few stretches that are just too deep to even pedal through. I've had good rides from both the Landing Road side and the park-and-ride on 166. Most of the trails were dry or just slightly muddy, but I'm sure the rain this week will not help matters.

Mountain biking in February in shorts and a t-shirt.....you've gotta love Maryland! I believe they are going to build some high dollar homes their :confused:

[UpOnTwo]

sorry, the reply about Keech Farms was for Baltocharlie.

[riderx]

Unbelievable, but when I passed the Rolling Rd. trailhead yesterday (Sunday) there appeared to be a lot of bikers on the trail based on the number of cars sporting bike racks parked there.

We got hammered with rain on Saturday and got another healthy dose on Sunday evening. Don't even think about going on a trail ride at Avalon for a while. Unless of course you would like to destroy the trails and jeoprodize our access there.

And a note about the Keech Rd sale: shouldn't affect any trails, that is all private property that borders I-95. The new gravel road mentioned in an earlier post accesses some powerlines near the Bullrun trail. Seems a bit odd and I've personally wondered if all proper proceedures were such as enviro. impact studies were performed prior to cutting this thing in.

[riderx]

This is your early heads up so you can obtain your permission slip, mark your calendar and earn some good karma. March 28th is the first trail work day of the season for Avalon.

The trails have been hit hard this year, so if you are a regular user of this golden singletrack you should come out and invest a little sweat equity. The more people that show up, the more gets done and the better our relationship is with the park and other trail users.

Spread the word, bring a friend.

Details:
Date: 3/28
Meet at: 9:30 AM at the Avalon Pavilions
Contact: Mike Klasmeier
(443) 831-2645

[riderx]

Avalon was in great shape today (Sat.). Things have dried up nicely, although I suspect the farm loop by Belmont is still wet, so it's probably best to still avoid it.

[UpOnTwo]

Just got back an hour or so ago from Avalon and the trails were in great shape. I rode the trails on both sides of the river and found only a couple of muddy spots. Great day for a ride. I did not however ride the the Belmont loop and havn't for a while now. You know that has got to still be a mess.

UpOnTwo

[riderx]

Conditions continue to be good, but we did a bit of trail inspection for the upcoming work day on March 28th and have confirmed that the Belmont/Farm trail that connects Morning Choice is still VERY muddy. Please avoid this when putting together your rides.

[riderx]

Don't forget, Avalon has a trail workday on Sunday. Come out and help and bank some good karma.

Details from trail liason Mike K:
Come one, come all to help the region's most heavily used trail system recover from a rough '03 season and '04 Winter. Lots o people road when it was warm and wet so the trails are wide, deep and cut up (in sections) not to mention the blender cycle that the horses put it through by loosening up
huge sections of trail.

We'll hit hot spots off of Landing Road on Morning Choice to narrow, re-route and close some braided trail. Bring a shovel, rake, loppers, macleod or pulaski. We'll have some tools and we'll try to do some rock pitching as well.

If you know what's up, park at the Rockburn parking lot then walk down to the landing road side. We'll try to use those black Army special ops helicopters to drop some people directly on site.

Running late? 443.831.2645. Call the Chevy Chase shop if you have questions of if you need directions. The MORE website has some good ones as well.

[fatoldguy]

Avalon 3-26-04

We were all over it - both sides of the river - and it is sweet. Go ride.

[riderx]

About 20 riders showed up to do trail maintenance at Avalon on Sunday. Big thanks to everyone who showed up. We did some reroute and repair on a few sections of Morning Choice off of Landing Rd., keep an eye out for it.

3/28
Conditions are good overall except for the continueing problem areas over near Belmont. Continue to avoid those until we have a looong dry spell.

[fatoldguy]

Avalon 4-16-04

We rode Howard County side this AM (yeah, in the dark with lights - we are such rebels). Did not even attempt Belmont - I am sure it is still a mud pit. The vast majority of the trails are in excellent shape. Go ride.

[buckwheat]

Rode Avalon yesterday evening and the place was incredible. Nice and dry in most sections, still a few mud pits in others but they're easy to avoid as its the same places as always. Props to the MORE crew and those that do the trail routing out there. The trail improvements are very noticeable and very NICE. If your not riding out at Avalon over the next few days you must be CRAZY!

[riderx]

Trails are in good shape with sporatic mud holes. But with all of this rain we've had lately, continue to avoid the Howard County farm loop (Morning Choice/Belmont connector)

[bikerRob]

05/21/04>> I rode Avalon yesterday hoping that things would not be too muddy. It had been more than 36 hrs since the last rain fell in the area. As I was leaving the Landing Rd. parking area several bikers were returning to their car. Most of them had a ton of mud on their bikes. I continued only because I know all the trails and know which ones tend to be dry(er). Besides I always walk the areas that are too muddy or avoid them if I can. Most of the trails I saw were still soft from all the recent rain. The problem with riding in conditions like this is most people don't adjust their riding style. That means riding slower and more controlled so as not to tear up the trails. It is also necessary to walk around the mud boggs. If you don't, the holes just get bigger. This how it works..1)..rider sees mud bogg ahead. 2)..rider rides right thru the muddiest part, carrying away at least a couple cups of dirt on his tires..#3)..rider then flings mud from his tires onto his bike,clothes and surrounding trail. 4)..others follow suit, aka...monkey see, monkey do. Next thing you know you have a pretty good size pot hole... I call this the "Gee-I'm-so-glad-I've-got-disc-brakes-effect". Banana's anyone? :rolleyes:

[riderx]

Rob - it's actually preferred to ride through the mud hole rather than riding around (or walking around). This is IMBA's position. It may seem wrong, but it is to prevent widening of the trail which is worse than a deeper hole.

[bikerRob]

Rob - it's actually preferred to ride through the mud hole rather than riding around (or walking around). This is IMBA's position. It may seem wrong, but it is to prevent widening of the trail which is worse than a deeper hole.


05/22/04>> Hey Joe, I think I’m going to have to disagree with you a bit here. According to what IMBA has on their web site, simply put, they advocate, “Not riding on muddy trails”…period, because as they state, “riding muddy trails widens trails”. However, I think I know where you’re coming from. Many, many years ago (when I was a MTB newbie) I recall reading “somewhere”, a policy that stated when riding wet trails always ride thru the center of a mud puddle. (So as to not widen trails) I can’t remember if this was an IMBA quote or something written in an old mtb magazine, maybe a little of both. Being the newbie that I was, I took all of this advice to heart and employed it in my riding style. Not too long after, one day while riding what is now the Cascade trail off of Landing Rd, I came upon a pretty big mud puddle. Back in those days I rode in mud all the time. Well to make a long story short, I rode thru the middle of this mud puddle and promptly my front wheel sunk almost down to the axle! Ahhh!…nothing like an endo on muddy turf. Afterwards I felt real stupid about the whole thing. It seems this particular puddle had quite a hole in it that I couldn’t see. This incident brought on my first MTB epiphany. WHAT YOU CAN’T SEE, CAN, AND WILL HURT YOU. Muddy water can hide a multitude of obstacles. It could be rocks, roots, logs, and of course, big holes. What was said previously about riding thru the middle of puddles I suppose is correct: about 90% of the time, but it’s that 10% that will reach out and throw you when you least expect it. If I were to give someone else who was learning MTBing some tips, I would recommend riding thru the puddles only if you know the trail and know that it’s safe to do so, other wise exercise common sense and use caution.
Of course right now there are no puddles at Avalon that I can think of. However there are plenty of what I will call “Mud bogs” of various sizes and lengths. If IMBA had their way, NO ONE WOULD BE RIDING IN MUDDY CONDITIONS. Of course you and I both know, that’s not going to happen anytime soon. They (IMBA) seem to think (I suppose) that when people ride in muddy conditions that a lot of people will try to avoid the mud and widen trails. From what I see of the tire tracks on the trails, there is probably a bit a truth to that. However, it is not always the case (from what I have observed). NOW AS TO RIDING THRU THE MIDDLE OF A MUD BOG…I’m not quite sure what the official position is. If you were riding thru the middle, this would seem to contradict their (IMBA’s) previous statement. Of course, once again, a blanket statement simply isn’t going to cover all the bases. There are different degrees and texture to mud. Some mud you can ride thru with no problems (tire load up) at all. Unfortunately, only experience can tell you, “how to judge the consistency and firmness of terrain. Judging from what I’ve seen out at Avalon lately, not too many people either have this knowledge or simply don’t give a damn. When I advocated walking around mud holes, I should have been more specific. Always walk on the trail without widening the trail. If you look closely there are usually a couple dry (or drier) spots that you can step or jump to. Rocks and pieces of wood are great for giving one a more stable platform. >>Sorry if I went on a bit. I just hate seeing all the ruts that are being formed and all the trails that are being trashed during the wet weather. :(

[Dobbs]

Anyone have a conditions report for either side of the river?
Thanks.

[old_ass_fuji]

Anyone have a conditions report for either side of the river?
Thanks.

Yep - went out this saturday morning. The trails are still muddy not totally, there are some dry parts but overall I would call it muddy - we really just rode the Ridge to Morning Choice to the Red loop then back to morning choice and back out to the road via Ridge trail. All of those were pretty muddy - at first we were not going to ride but with the weather we have seen recently we would be waiting until july to ride Avalon. I am heading back out on Thursday morning - I will give another report then.

[Balto Charlie]

Anyone have a conditions report for either side of the river?
Thanks.

I got stuck in the park Friday evening behind a stopped freight train on Gun rd. I rode my mnt/roadie up the Soapstone trail. It was pretty bad, especially with slicks. Plus it rained Sat night. We should be able to ride Avalon sometime in August. Charlie

[Dobbs]

Thanks for the info. From 166, down Soapstone, along Santee and down Vineyard Springs to Grist Mill and back showed very little mud, better described as just soft dirt in most spots. Cicadas :eek: were everywhere, with several kamikazes among them, targeting my face. Great day to ride.

[wa2be]

Anyone have a conditions report for either side of the river?
Thanks.

I rode Avalon yesterday starting at the Landing Road entrance to the Cascade (blue) trail. It was in pretty good shape until you cross the small stream and make a left onto the outer loop of the Cascade trail. The entire loop was muddy, and some stretches were in really bad shape. It will take several dry days before this area is ready to be ridden regularly. The rest of the trails on the south side of the river looked good - the Ridge, Rockburn Branch, and Morning Choice were mostly soft dirt, and only small patches of mud.

Get out and enjoy the deafening roar of the cicadas!

[Balto Charlie]

5/25:folks we got dumped on big time yesterday. doubt that it will be rideable for a few day at least.

[riderx]

Rained again on 5/26, please stay off the trail. Time to rock the road.

[riderx]

5/27 Isolated thunderstorms hit Avalon hard again today. You know the drill.

[riderx]

6/4 lots of rain lately, trails are wet. Please give them some drying time.

[Balto Charlie]

Hey all: I rode on the paved roads in the park this AM and 2 trees were down before the bridge on the grist mill trail. One was an enormous ash(?). It look like it was sheared off 1/3 way up the trunk. Must have been a helluva wind storm yesterday. I almost rode right into it. I need to drink more coffee before I ride. Charlie

[riderx]

Avalon conditions: 6/9
Avoid the trails and spots that tend to stay wet. Despite several warm and dry days there remain areas that should be avoided. Lots of stuff is rideable, but more rain is in the forecast for the next couple of days, so this could change soon.

[riderx]

Only brief isolated showers the past few days, trails are generally in good shape except for the typical problem areas.

[riderx]

Avalon: 6/17 Almost an inch of rain fell, give it some time.

[Wally]

Has anyone talked to the park about erecting signs at the main trailheads (Park n' Ride, Landing Road, Hilltop) and parking areas that say something to the effect of..."Please consider riding on the road during wet spring conditions, and after moderate rainfall"...I've seen them in other parks. I'm not sure how well they work, but it might be worth a try.

Checked it out on 6/11 before a number of the big storms and it was in rough shape. We've had a lot of rain since then.

I live right by the Park & Ride and pass it everyday. People still are riding the day after the rain or sometimes in the afternoon when it's rained in the morning. There are some spots that are seriously in bad shape and the trail is being widened by people afraid to ride through mud puddles. I'm afraid access issues might start rearing their ugly head soon.

With conditions like they are now, you've got to wait at least 48 hours (and probably more) after a moderate rain and far longer after the heavy stuff we've been having.

[wa2be]

I've been out of town since last Thursday. How are the conditions at Avalon? I was gonna try to ride after work today.

[dmofot]

No clue, but I imagine if it's rained up there like it has down in VA that the trails will be very wet and need some time to dry.

DT

[markie@unformat]

:D

Well there is a More ride scheduled for tonight at 6. Why not come along and join us and see how wet or dry it is?

Joe said the rain had been steering around Patapsco as if God himself wanted us to ride tonight.

Actually I made the last bit up.

[riderx]

Conditions on 6/23
Despite the rain that has been hitting the DC and NOVA folks, Avalon has been spared and received nothing more than a few brief showers in the past week. Other than the few perpetual mud holes, the trails are in great shape. I imagine the farm loop/mud bog is still off limits, but in general the trails are rockin'.

[riderx]

Trails are beautiful, so dry in many spots you need to watch out for the trail dust in the high speed corners. Even the farm loop is dry (except for some pesky mud holes that will dry when we have 120 days without rain!)

[bikerRob]

... Even the farm loop is dry (except for some pesky mud holes that will dry when we have 120 days without rain!)
7/01/04>>> It's been quite a while since I rode Avalon. I guess I've been busy going to other places. I was wondering, did anyone clear that dead-fall that had fallen near one of the stream crossings leading to the Bellmount Farm Loop? I've stayed away from that loop all year so it's nice to hear that it's rideable again....Oh, did you ever find the other part to your magic carpet?
Rob

[riderx]

7/01/04>>> I was wondering, did anyone clear that dead-fall that had fallen near one of the stream crossings leading to the Bellmount Farm Loop?
---------------
Oh, did you ever find the other part to your magic carpet?
RobI don't recall any deadfall around there, so it must be gone. It's been months since I've ridden it, so I'm not sure where it was initially.

Didn't find the carpet, but I've still got the big one, so I'm happy.

[cbass]

The deadfall was cleared a while ago. For a while there was a nice set of back to back logs to clear, but one of them has been removed as well.

The trails are in great shape...ride them while they're dry!
I'm trying to cash in on all the muddy days that I stayed on the road. I'll be out there this afternoon.

The changes on Bull Run are kind of strange...first the gravel road to nowhere and then the super steep drop down to the entrance trail.

[Balto Charlie]

I rode today and second all that has been said...HOWEVER....raining like a MF right now:-( So unfortunate, those trails were the driest that I've seen in quite sometime. Charlie

[leroy]

Rode Avalon yesterday at 5:00 pm. Conditions were great. Dry and fast. A few very small wet areas. No Problem. However it is raining big time in College Park today (7-4-04). Hope the rain stays to the south.

[d^2]

how is it after the rain on the 4th of july? i'm thinking about heading up there tomorrow (the 5th) morning-ish. i don't want to ride if i'm going to hurt the trail.

[bikerRob]

how is it after the rain on the 4th of july? i'm thinking about heading up there tomorrow (the 5th) morning-ish. i don't want to ride if i'm going to hurt the trail.
7/05/04>>3:46 am>> From what I've heard, Avalon has been very dry with just a couple mud holes for the last week or so. Rain in the last 24 hrs has been very sporadic and very brief. I encountered a light drizzle just before I got home just after 12 A.M. My bet is that the trails are dry enough to soak up the brief shower/drizzle that we got and should be good to go by early morning unless a bigger storm was to come thru and according to the Intellicast radar, that's not likely to happen. I live in Columbia about ten minutes from Avalon. As I write it's not raining. My opinion....go ride :D

[d^2]

My opinion....go ride :D

good suggestion. it was pretty good. i think the moisture probably helped, because sections that looked like they could be dry and loose without water were in good shape. the roots were a little slippery, but that's part of the fun, right?

[bikerRob]

7/08/04>> 3:50 am>> Hello MORE people, this is Rob your night owl Avalon watch dog....( okay, so I couldn't think of anything else to say, I have tooth picks holding my eyes open so bear with me :rolleyes: ) If you haven't heard, yesterday (7/7/04) we had some record rain fall in the area of Patapsco St. Park's Avalon. It got somewhere around 4-6 inches and it all fell within a couple hours. On the radio I heard there was major flooding in the park itself. I guess you know what this all means. That's right, best to cross this ride this off your list till at least next week and that only if we don't get any more. :(

[Balto Charlie]

I crossed over the Thomas Viaduct(MARC train) just after the storm. The road along the Patapsco river (near rt 1 entrance) was under water. The rain actually fell in less than 1 hour. Fells point was under water again as well as Mnt. Washington. I don't know if the trails will take a week to dry out. It was very dry to start and lots, of what fell, ran off into the streams. Stream crossings will be bad but I think the park will recover quickly. Then again I could be all wet(especially after yesterdays deluge). Charlie

[riderx]

Avalon Conditions: 7/10/04

Trails have rebounded amazingly fast since Wed.'s monsoon. Everything is tip-top except for the perpetual mud holes. Even the farm loop is looking good except for a newly downed tree.

The dirt was either dry or grippy pretty much everywhere.

[bikerRob]

Avalon Conditions: 7/10/04

Trails have rebounded amazingly fast since Wed.'s monsoon. Everything is tip-top except for the perpetual mud holes. Even the farm loop is looking good except for a newly downed tree.

The dirt was either dry or grippy pretty much everywhere.
7/10/04>>> This time Riderx beat me to the punch. While I was hiking he was posting. A quick hike of the Cascade trail showed Avalon has indeed rebounded in fine shape. A matter of fact it's looking better than ever. Kudo's to who ever repaired the bad section of trail just east of Norris Rd. You did a Great Job! :) This was the section with the boards that had gotten really bad. Everything is in Tip-Top shape.....GO RIDE!!!!!

[markie@unformat]

It looks like there was quite a bit of rain last night in DC, did anything happen in Patapsco? :o

[riderx]

It looks like there was quite a bit of rain last night in DC, did anything happen in Patapsco? :oWe got zero up here. Things were rockin' again today. Trails are in prime shape.

[martin]

Can someone please post conditions tonight 7/12?

I'm heading up that way tomorrow and would like to do a short ride if I get the chance - or if the trail is in good shape.

Thanks

[riderx]

Can someone please post conditions tonight 7/12?

I'm heading up that way tomorrow and would like to do a short ride if I get the chance - or if the trail is in good shape.

ThanksAs of now (10:59pm Mon.) things are great. Nothing more than a few raindrops fell today. Enjoy it while you can!

[Balto Charlie]

On my morning commute, I rode through the park , just for Martin. Trails are dry. Where I live in Catonsville(10 min bike from the park) we got a good shower last night. Avalon was spared. The pavement was mostly dry. Who would have thought that Avalon would be one of the driest parks to ride lately. Charlie

[riderx]

By some miracle of natural all of the major rain this week has bypassed Avalon. Things are good, get out and ride before that changes!

[cowboy00242]

Wednesday night MORE ride saw a good turnout, and had EXCELLENT trails to use! Rain still seems to be missing Avalon. Go ride!! NOW!!!

[bikerRob]

7/22/04 Darn, I didn't know about the night ride Weds. but then again I was busy. I did take a night ride Tues though. Trails were in pretty good shape with the occasional mud hole. I decided to take the Belmount Farm loop trail. It had been almost six months since I last rode this trail and I had heard it was not in bad shape. Well, I guess I have to agree, to a point. It was rideable but there are still a lot of mud holes on this trail. It was really hard to ride at night because of all the "go around trails" near the Belmount Farms entrance road. This area is just loaded with mud holes and at night it was hard to tell which one didn't lead up to a mud bog. >>> FYI...It did rain tonight (7/22/04) in the Columbia area. Undoubtedly, Avalon saw some of that rain. You might want to give it 24 hrs. before you ride.

[bikerRob]

7/23/04 >> Rain, Rain, Rain!...as I write it is still raining in Columbia.(about 3 miles from Avalon). Showers have been off and on in the area for the last 24 hrs and I expect much of the same for the rest of the day. :( It might be a good weekend for a trip to Gambril or Fred. watershed.

[bikerRob]

7/28/04 >> I hate to be the bearer of bad news but here it is...Rain, rain, and more rain. The last 24 hrs has seen a lot of on and off rainfall in the vicinity of Avalon. I sure it got quite a drenching. It's going to need at least another 48 hrs to dry out...providing it doesn't rain any more. :(

[riderx]

BikeRob beat me to it. When he says we got some rain, it's no exaggeration. Literally several inches in the last 48 hours.

The BWI rain gauge is approx. 5 miles from Avalon and is a good online source to check these things. It shows rain accumulation in 1, 3, and 6 hour increments over 48 hours. Bookmark it for the future.
BWI Rain Gauge (http://www.crh.noaa.gov/data/obhistory/KBWI.html)

[allroy]

say we see someone riding there and happen to smack the crap out of them.

Maybe we should just get a professional ninja...
Real Ultimate Power (http://realultimatepower.net/)

[rpiontek]

Dry enough tomorrow or not?

[bikerRob]

Dry enough tomorrow or not?
7/31/04 >> As I write it's 2:30 am. There's been no rain in the area for the last 72 hrs. I say, "Go ride". :D

[bikerRob]

8/01/04 >> As I write it is 2:50 am. Another Avalon Night Owl weather report. I'm pretty sure most of the storms that swept thru the area today missed Avalon. The Intellicast weather radar showed that most of the storms moved past just north of Avalon. ( Yeah! :D ) I checked the greater East coast storm movements and most every thing is moving NE and passing just above Baltimore. If you're planning an early ride today you should get it in before the weather or winds change directions. Thanks to RiderX for the nifty link to BWI's rainfall gauge. If you haven't put the link on your favorites list, I suggest you do so. Rob (the link is on his last post, check it out.)

[rpiontek]

Well, it's wet now. We sat in the parking lot this morning while it poured. We headed to rosaryville for a nice ride on dry trails.

[riderx]

Heavy downpours today totalling over a half inch of rain.

[Balto Charlie]

Wow I left this place 2 weeks ago and Avalon was in great shape. What the heck y'all do?? Charlie

[Atomic_cocktail]

I've rode out at Avalon since I moved out here in March and it's never been dry. These woods are the closest thing to a rainforest I've ever seen. The only way for this trail to heal is to close it after heavy rains. I really believe that certain sections should be closed now.

[riderx]

I've rode out at Avalon since I moved out here in March and it's never been dry. These woods are the closest thing to a rainforest I've ever seen. The only way for this trail to heal is to close it after heavy rains. I really believe that certain sections should be closed now.Self closure my friend. Don't ride when it's wet and spread the word to others to do the same. Some trails take much longer to dry out so should be avoided for longer periods of time. Since you are new to the area and may not know all of that info yet, feel free to ask, I'll be glad to give you the 411.

One of the biggest things that helps keep these trails rideable is the MORE trail maintenance days. We've made huge progress in making these trails sustainable. If you haven't come out before, grab some friends and your favorite tools for the next one and pitch in. Tentatively scheduled for late Oct and late Nov., official dates should be announced soon.

[riderx]

Hell's Bells, the Wed. night ride crew got caught in a surprise thunderstorm. Over a half inch of rain fell tonight. The trails were flowing like streams. Give it the usual drying time.

[buckwheat]

Snuck out of work yesterday for an afternoon ride at Avalon and had a great time. The trails are mostly dry with a few mud pits here and there, its the usual places so avoiding them is pretty easy. Beautiful weekend for riding. Hope everyone gets a chance to enjoy the trails over the next few days.

[Balto Charlie]

Rode the HoCo side on Tues. and it's in great shape. Typical mud pits but relatively dry and fast. Ride before the upcoming storms. Charlie

[riderx]

Half inch of rain via heavy downpour on 8/11

[riderx]

Another half-inch of rain fell Thursday.

[Balto Charlie]

Hey all Just rode this afternoon and it's in decent shape. Balto co side in better shape than HoCo, less mud pits. Didn't ride near the goat farm tho. Charlie

[cowboy00242]

A greased pig, that is. Immediately into the Wednesday night ride, we got about 5 minutes of heavy rain which made Avalon area incredibly slick in most places, and made the already soft spots into mudholes. Might be worthwhile to leave it for a few days, I dunno...

[cbass]

I was out there yesterday as well. The quick shower did make things a bit slick, but I didn't think that it softened the trail or led to any standing water. However, I tried to stay on the ~rockier~ trails that tend to drain well.

The low lying soft soil areas that tend to get muddy probably are muddy. I would say the trails are ridable if we haven't had rain for 36 hours. However, a heavy storm could lengthen the waiting period.

I think that the trail work that has been done to add the white gravel/sand mixture to reinforce the muddy spots helps a lot. It allows water to drain while maintaining a narrow, ridable surface for trail users. This addresses the big problem of muddy spots getting wider and wider as people go around the mud holes. All of a sudden singletrack has become a muddy freeway. These gravel "bridges" could really help out a few other spots, notably the farm loop.

Is MORE or the DNR doing this work?

[Dobbs]

Anyone out Sunday (8/22) on either side of Avalon? Was it dry? Going tomorrow, hopefully. Thanks for any info. Dobbs

[bikerRob]

Anyone out Sunday (8/22) on either side of Avalon? Was it dry? Going tomorrow, hopefully. Thanks for any info. Dobbs
8/22/04 IMHO...you should be good to go. I don't think there's been any any rain fall at Avalon for a good 72+ hrs. No, I didn't ride it today but the rain fall gauge at BWI shows no recent rain fall. http://www.crh.noaa.gov/data/obhistory/KBWI.html (this link courtesy of RiderX )

[riderx]

I think that the trail work that has been done to add the white gravel/sand mixture to reinforce the muddy spots helps a lot. It allows water to drain while maintaining a narrow, ridable surface for trail users. This addresses the big problem of muddy spots getting wider and wider as people go around the mud holes. All of a sudden singletrack has become a muddy freeway. These gravel "bridges" could really help out a few other spots, notably the farm loop.

Is MORE or the DNR doing this work?
MORE has done quite a bit of work out there, but the white gravel stuff is not ours. Looks like it's been a park project and one of the better things they have done lately.

[cbass]

I was out there yesterday afternoon and the trails are pretty dry. The handful of old mud holes are starting to dry up.

Though the trails are dry and good to go there is a decent amount of noticable erosion in many spots. Perhaps we can shore up some of these areas during the Fall trail maintenance days.

In the meantime enjoy this dry spell and get out and ride!

[cbass]

I was out again yesterday and the trails are still dry.

One question...I'm noticing more and more helmetless people out there on mountain bikes....WTF?!? Wear your helmets!

And on another subject that keeps me up at night...

***Keep the singletrack single!

Thank you 8-)

[riderx]

Good to go. Even the farm loop is dry enough to ride. Getting dark early these days though.

[Dobbs]

All trails in Avalon and surrounds are still great. Trying pic for first time (Cascade Falls Trail).

[bikerRob]

All trails in Avalon and surrounds are still great. Trying pic for first time (Cascade Falls Trail).
8/28/04 >> WOW!... Nice, pic of the falls. You caught the sunlight just right..looks great. Glad to see we can post photos again! :cool:

[bikerRob]

9/12/04 (Sunday ride)>>....Fast, and Fun! :eek: :D Sorry, I just couldn't resist. I don't think I've seen the trails any faster than what they are right now. Even the Grinch couldn't ride Avalon presently without a smile plastered on his face. :) I only rode the Howard Co. side but I doubt if there was any mud anywhere. If there was I guess I was going too fast to see it. I couldn't resist the urge to go big ring a couple times.. :D Oh how I wish I could play hooky and call out from work tomorrow! ;)

[bigbadbrad]

Hey BikerRob-- I'm guessing you mean "dangerous fast" or "scary fast" over there!? Sounds like fun.

I haven't been there in a while, planning a trip to Balto. next weekend. (Taking my son for his 15th birthday to see the Freeride Red Bull Bike bash or something; figured we'd go ride after watching those maniacs). :D

Please clarify: to access Avalon, it's the commuter parking lot off I-95 (I forget the exit at the moment), then just across the street to drop in, eventually arrive at the river, the swinging bridge, where you can cross to the other side of the valley & ride more trails, correct?

Any other recommended access points, or is the above the easiest/preferred way? :confused:

Thanks,
--Brad R.

Ride on!

[bikerRob]

9/13/04 >> Brad, If you're coming from Va. and want to Start from the Howard Co. side of Avalon then you would take I-95 N., get off on the Rt. 100 exit headed east. Get off on the next exit for Rt.1 headed north. Go about two and half miles and make a left at the light on Montgomery Rd. Go about a mile and quarter and make a right on Landing Rd. As you drive down Landing Rd. there will be two trailheads you can choose from. The first has limited parking and is the cross-over point between Avalon and Rockburn Park. ( Avalon being on your right ) or go about another mile down the road and park on the right at the Main Trailhead (Cascade trail) There is an entrance road for a new community opposite the trailhead...hard to miss.

[Dobbs]

Avalon Parking note:

Friend and I rode while parked at trailhead of Morning Choice Trail on Landing Road. Back in 90 minutes to find the window smashed and his van ransacked, including his wallet, credit cards (several thousand bucks spent within an hour) and even a bolted-in console tv/vcr combo (for the kids in the back) stolen. There have been several break-ins on Landing Road and at the I-195 UMBC Wilkins/Rolling road area trailheads. One option is to park in the lots for Rockburn Branch park, where there are more people and park employees present. One lot is in the section on Landing Road and the other is behind Rockburn Elementary school on Montgomery Road. Lots of parking usually available at both.

And if anyone sees anybody who obviously isn't cycling or birdwatching around our parked cars at trailheads, be sure that they see you watching them, and if you can, please get their tag numbers for the police to check out.

Dobbs

[bigbadbrad]

Thanks to both BikerRob & Dobbs! Sorry to hear about your friend's misfortune. I never thought about it, but it would unfortunately be a perfect spot for criminals; just off the highway, smash & rob they're gone (the bastards!)

Points well taken; I'll study my maps/follow directions as per your posts and find a more secure location to park, &/or leave no valuables in the car!

--Brad
[getting into the spirit, inspired by other Forum-mates...]

Quote from Counting Crows, "Mrs. Potter's Lullaby":
"If you've never stared off into the distance, then your life is a shame" ;)

[bikerRob]

9/14/03 >> What you could do for a more secure location is continue down Montgomery Rd. (past Landing Rd) and make a right into the Rockburn Elementary School parking lot. When I do this I park around back by the soccer field. There are usually lots of people around. In order to get to Avalon from there you ride (NE) up the Park Rd. Make the first left into the new parking area and ride NE past the building on your right. Continue straight down the hill on the dirt road. At the bottom of the hill you will see a trail(not the road) that shoots left, off into the woods. Turn here. Continue to where the trail comes to a tee. Now get off you bike and get a good look at this trail intersection. When you come back you will need to find this trail again to get back to your car. Ok, get back on your bike and turn right. Follow the trail till it comes to another "trail" intersection and bear left. Keep thinking NE. This trail will cross a small wooden bridge, than you bear right. A short distance and the trail will bear left towards an open area with power lines. Follow the power line trail( NE ) where it turns left into the woods. Cross over Landing Rd....Welcome to Avalon! ( Note: It only takes maybe 15 minutes after leaving the parking lot to get to Landing Rd. The trails through Rockburn basically form a big loop with a couple short cut trails going thru the middle. The entire Rockburn Loop can be ridden in anywhere from 40 min. to more than a hour. I gave you the short cut version ) ( Double note: Be sure not to park inside the gates of Rockburn if you plan on being out after dark. They lock the gates at sunset...unless there's a ball game going on or something else.)

[rpiontek]

9/14/03 >> What you could do for a more secure location is continue down Montgomery Rd. (past Landing Rd) and make a right into the Rockburn Elementary School parking lot.

As metioned above, I park at Rockburn Park. Just pass your nomal dirt lot on landing road, contine for about 1/2 mile and turn left into the park. Park by the buildings by the baseball fields and you even get a bathroom and running water! During the summer they are open until 11:00 pm (you'll see the time when you drive in), so I think you can even do a bit of night riding there after you're doen at Patapsco.

[bikerRob]

As metioned above, I park at Rockburn Park. Just pass your nomal dirt lot on landing road, contine for about 1/2 mile and turn left into the park. Park by the buildings by the baseball fields and you even get a bathroom and running water! .
9/15/04 >> Brad, just so you're not confused...There are two entrances to Rockburn Park. One is off of Landing Rd. as rpiontek mentions and the other is off of Montgomery Rd. by Rockburn Ele. school as I mentioned before. (note" The two parking areas do not connect so you can't drive from Landing Rd to Montgomery via the Park roads.) I like parking by the school because it extends my ride. If you choose the Landing Rd. entrance, follow the parking area to it's eastern most point and you will see the trailhead to your left. Enter the woods and bear left. Soon you will come to the wooden bridge I mentioned before...Now get out and ride! :D

[bigbadbrad]

Yo Rob: thanks again for the detailed assistance. Incidentally, weather report seems OK for Sunday, albeit w/possibly a flood between now & then. If we do get a lot of rain, I generally avoid riding to minimize trail damage, avoid getting stuck in the mud, etc. ;)

Here's my latest (hopefully last!) question: how's Avalon after rain? Sunny forecast for Sunday; if we hit it Sunday afternoon, and the rain ends by about Sat. eve., does it drain fairly well?

Thanks again.
--Brad R.
Ride on!

[drevil]

Here's my latest (hopefully last!) question: how's Avalon after rain? Sunny forecast for Sunday; if we hit it Sunday afternoon, and the rain ends by about Sat. eve., does it drain fairly well?

Thanks again.
--Brad R.
Ride on!

Brad,

No. Especially since it's been raining on and off for the last week. Go to the Frederick Watershed or Gambrill instead, where it's rockier.

[riderx]

how's Avalon after rain? Sunny forecast for Sunday; if we hit it Sunday afternoon, and the rain ends by about Sat. eve., does it drain fairly well?Not a chance. I'm sitting next to Avalon right now, we've been getting rain all night and all morning. It will take a good 4-5 days for things to dry out. Drevil is right, Watershed or Gambrills are your best bets.

[bigbadbrad]

Thanks, guys. Points well taken. That's what I recall about Avalon, not good after rain/slippery when wet ;)

Maybe this will give me a good excuse to get to Gambrill...

Ride on,
--Brad

[bikerRob]

Here's my latest (hopefully last!) question: how's Avalon after rain? Sunny forecast for Sunday; if we hit it Sunday afternoon, and the rain ends by about Sat. eve., does it drain fairly well?
9/18/04 >> Brad, First the bad news...The rainfall near Avalon was about an inch in the last 36 hrs or so. Skies still look threatening and the sun isn't out to help dry things up...The good news...The trails of Avalon were very dry three days ago. Much of the local rainfall has been spotty with some short intense showers. With it being as windy as it is now, and as dry as it was, I would think some drying should occur rather fast. Radar shows no rain in the area at the time. I walked outside a moment ago and looked at the ground near my building. There is no mud present but the ground is soft. Drainage near my building is poor and is a good litmus test for local conditions.(4 miles from Avalon) I would think by tomorrow afternoon you should be fine. To be safe though, the Frederick watershed/Gambrill might not be a bad idea.

[bigbadbrad]

Thanks again, Rob. We'll see how it looks! :cool:

Of course, I've heard that Rosaryville drains well... ;)

--Brad

[fatoldguy]

I rode both sides of the river for many hours. All is good - it is dry - go ride. Even Belmont is in decent shape. Enjoy the spell of nice weather. Michaux should be sweet on Sunday!

[cbass]

i was out there yesterday on the HoCo side and the trails were quite dry.

get out and enjoy this weather!

[riderx]

Avalon 9/29
Several inches of rain last night, it's going to need some drying time.

[fatoldguy]

Avalon 10-1-4

Both sides, including Belmont, are in good shape. Go ride before it rains on Saturday.

[riderx]

Get your permission slips now and clear your calendar for Oct. 24th. That will be the first MORE trail work day for Avalon this fall. Details can be had here (http://www.more-mtb.org/story.php?module=showevent&id=1221).

[bikerRob]

10/11/04 >> I got a chance to ride the Howard Co. side of Avalon on Sunday before the Ravens/R-skins game. Avalon is Bone dry right now.. :) ...not a mud pit in sight. In fact it was so dry that it made cornering a little dangerous. Even the Belmount farm trail was dry.. :eek: . The driest of sections had a top layer of sand that made things a bit sketchy but for the most part it was good fun. Now that the cool fall weather is here and with the daylight getting shorter by the day, I'll probably be seeing more of Avalon since it's closer to my home. Come out and enjoy Avalon before the fall rains come. Rob

[IFBikeMD]

Happy Columbus Day! I rode most all of Patapsco today... It was dry everywhere. Everyone should definitely get out and enjoy the trails.

- James

[bikerRob]

Get your permission slips now and clear your calendar for Oct. 24th. That will be the first MORE trail work day for Avalon this fall. Details can be had here (http://www.more-mtb.org/story.php?module=showevent&id=1221).
10/12/04 >> I thought it good to bump your post up to the front :) ....Rob

[Phil123]

Our area had rain or drizzle almost every day this week. Today is supposed to be dry. Do you think Avalon will be dry enough for a ride on Saturday, Oct. 23rd?

[riderx]

Our area had rain or drizzle almost every day this week. Today is supposed to be dry. Do you think Avalon will be dry enough for a ride on Saturday, Oct. 23rd?This is a tough one, as it's been raining here (Avalon) for the past couple of days, but overall volume has been relatively light. So, by Sat., most trails should be in good shape. If you go, I would advise avoiding the notoriously wet ones if other indicators point to wet conditions. Or, you could give it another day to dry out and come to trail maint. Sunday and do the post ride ;)

[liltommy]

Could somebody give me directions to where the meeting spot for the trailwork on Sunday. I've never been there.
I'm coming from So. Md.

Is anybody going to be riding casual afterwards, where I could tag along?

Tommy

[drevil]

From I-95:
-take I-195 exit (towards BWI)
-take Rt. 1 (Exit 3) toward Elkridge (turn right at end of ramp)
-Right on South St.
-Park entrance is on the left.
-After entering the park, turn left at the "T"
-Parking area on right.

It's picnic shelter 105 on this map:
http://www.dnr.state.md.us/publiclands/central/avalon.html
You'll be entering from the bottom right (RT 1).



Could somebody give me directions to where the meeting spot for the trailwork on Sunday. I've never been there.
I'm coming from So. Md.

Is anybody going to be riding casual afterwards, where I could tag along?

Tommy

[Dobbs]

How's it looking? Hope to get out on Friday. Thanks, Dobbs

[riderx]

How's it looking? Hope to get out on Friday. Thanks, DobbsShould be fine unless we get rain between now and then.

[wa2be]

I rode both side of the river last night. The trails are in good condition overall (a little soft and muddy in spots) and there's still some mud holes left from last week's rains, but they are few and far between. Get out and enjoy the awesome fall scenery. :cool:

[cbass]

It's been a while since we've had an update and I was out of town all weekend...so can someone post the latest on Avalon conditions?

thanks

[Balto Charlie]

This will probably be worthless as it rained on Sat night. I rode Sat day, both sides...some mud holes but overall decent shape. A lot of rain fell on Saturday night my guess is that it wil need another day or 2 to recover since there were mud pits here and there. Charlie

[Dobbs]

Tuesday, Nov 30

Mudspots remain in the usual areas of Morning Choice Trail and intersecting trails, but most are avoidable. Came out not too dirty at all.

[old_bashturd]

Went through the park roads on my road bike and took a peek. Still very wet from all the rain. Its going to take a good 3 days of sun to dry things out enough to ride. On a good note, passing the Landing road parking areas, both were empty in the am, and I only saw 2 riders unloading at the park and ride. Unfortunatly, I saw about 8 riders at the pavilions unloading MTB's on my way out :mad:

[bluronthetrails]

It was nice out today!

A tad soupy in a few spots but hey what else would you expect from Patapsco?? Very grippy on most spots, including the rocky sections...

[Dobbs]

Found same on Friday. Hope the ground's frozen on Monday...

[bikerRob]

1/01/05 >> Temps. 64', sunny >> I've noticed lately that no one has reported on the conditions at Avalon. Seeing that it's been a while since I've ridden there I thought I'd check things out to see what's up and to see if any construction has started at Belmont yet. Anybody that knows me knows that I'm not an advocate for riding in muddy conditions so I was hesitate to take this ride. If things were bad I would just go ahead and turn back. I started my ride at Rockburn and headed towards Avalon. I was very surprised at how well the trails in Rockburn Pk. were fairing and this inspired me to continue towards Avalon. Most of my ride kept to the upper Howard Co. trails. The Morning Choice trail was in very good shape and although the Cascade Trail was somewhat damp and soft in places, most of it was very rideable. Nowhere did I see any rutting although the Cascade Trail did have a couple mud holes that were not too bad (mucky). Most of the trails were moist and along some sections "the tack factor" did cause some slowing. Some of the steeper hills were better off walked ( going up ) rather than ridden because of the soft conditions.
So far I have yet to see any of the construction markers that others have reported that were suppose to mark the new access road to be built thru Avalon. I only hope this means there was enough public out cry to delay the construction.

Tomorrow it's suppose to rain in the area ( 30% chance ) so that means tomorrow will be iffy if you plan to ride at Avalon. If you can beat the rain than go for it. :)

[Dobbs]

45 degs - overcast - perfect day to ride
Found trails from I-195 park-and-ride just moist enough to provide a smooth ride without the slickness of a few days ago on the Landing Road side. Pic attached.

[old_bashturd]

Fot the most part, trails are in good shape, tacky or dry in most parts, A few muddy spots. Farm loop right near Belmont is a muddy mess. If you avoid that, trails are good.

[Dobbs]

1-3-05 64 degrees and sunny!
Mostly dry or slightly damp ground. Wish I had avoided the area in the picture. Rain's coming.

[bikerRob]

1/14/05 >> It's been raining since about 9:00 pm Thursday. At this moment it's about 3:15 AM and it's still raining. I think it's safe to say that Avalon will pretty much be screwed up till Monday...and that only if the rain stops sometime real soon.. :( ( as soon as I finished writing this it started to down pour once again...Drat! )

Rob from Columbia

[wa2be]

I went hiking up at Avalon both Sunday and Monday. There was mud everywhere (due to the heavy rains on Thursday night). Unfortunately, there was also tons of bikers out riding in the mud.

If you hit the trails early in the day while the mud is still frozen the trails aren't too bad, but later in the afternoons it softens up and becomes a mess. With snow in the forecast this week, things will probably not improve very much.

[Balto Charlie]

I also was hiking on Sunday and was surprised to see so many bikers. Even preached to a pair but fell on deaf ears. The area on the Balto Co side off of Hilltop was in good shape though. The only bad area was the trail that runs along Hilltop. If you cut back to the powerlines you can avoid this area. I would classify a couple of the drops here as advanced. The whole park is probably frozen now, so all might be good??? Charlie

[riderx]

Frozen and covered in snow. Fun stuff!

[Balto Charlie]

Hey X: were those your tracks up near Hilltop. I was hiking w/ my dog and saw a couple of tracks out from Hilltop towards Frederick rd. Charlie

[riderx]

Hey X: were those your tracks up near Hilltop. I was hiking w/ my dog and saw a couple of tracks out from Hilltop towards Frederick rd. CharlieProbably, we were all over the Balto. Co. side (and a bit of HoCo too) including hilltop.

[bikerRob]

1/24/05 >> Well, for what it was worth.. :rolleyes: ..I took a hike Sunday on the "Cascade Trail" off of Landing Rd. A good six inches or so of snow... more with the drifting. I walked the mile or so down to the waterfall and took a picture or two. Not much traction on the trail I'm afraid. The only tracks were from hikers and a cross-country skier who I met at one of the stream crossings. I'm glad I didn't bring the bike. The snow had the consistency of sand and gave no traction at all...even for walking. This made going up hills a little difficult. On a bike it would of been impossible. If you want to try biking this then invison what it would be like to ride up the back of a greased pig...no, that would be easier.. ;) Perhaps if we had a partial melt then refreeze it might provide a nice hard crust to ride on but until that happens...forget a'bout it! (note: I worked up a good sweat on this short out and back...had to take my coat off half way back...Well at least I got some exercise.)

[mtnbkr]

Anyone know how the trails out it patapsco are? I've been off the bike for a while. Any other places I may want to check out?

[riderx]

Avalon Conditions 1/26 With high temps all day the snow turned to the consistency of a thick slurpee. The trails are still covered in snow, it was just dense and wet snow. As usual, the trail from the park and ride leading into the park sees the most users of all types, so it has gotten packed down pretty good. It can be kind of cruel in how it misleads you into a sense of hope. Because, none of the other trails are this nice. Stuck to the Balto. Co. side, all the way out to the dam and loope it back, worked our butts off breaking trail. With the low temps in the night and forecast for the next few days I suspect the tracks (of all kinds) will be turning to ice ruts and bumps. Probably time to break out the spiked tires.

[Dobbs]

Thanks for taking the time to check the trails for the rest of us. I appreciate the info. You kept me from taking a day off and being very disappointed.

[old_bashturd]

Started at the small parking area on Landing. Went accross the big stream crossing and down Cascade. Cascade pretty ridable. Went accross the swinging bridge, and the paved trail along the river was more challenging than anything in the woods. Lots of ice a a few icy tire tracks. Went back around and hiked back up the water bars, then took the farm loop , which was in great shape, snow was packed and traction was good. It was allot of work for the miles, but worth it.

[punga]

I rode Saturday afternoon from the Rockburn Branch Park entrance through to the yellow and blue trails down the swinging bridge and backup the fireroad to the orange back the yellow for 7 mile loop. The trails were packed down faily well from previous riders and hikers on snowshoes. I didn't see any other riders besides some kids on the park road, although I saw cars parked at Landing Road.

Of course today's snow will cover it all back up, but there will be a base layer of hard pack underneath.

punga!

[langer]

out this morning at avalon around 8 (2/1/05) and it was frozen...make sure to wear waterproof booties or winter shoes as some of the streams are a little high with the melting snow. some of the lesser used trails are tough with the melting/refreezing going on and are forming a hard crust...but that might improve as the day wears on...
-jon

[riderx]

Avalon 2/2/05
Snow packed trails, nice and grippy. Enjoy it now, lots of warm days ahead and once it all melts you won't be riding it for a while.

[riderx]

Saturday AM 2/5/2005 Just got back, spent most of my time on the HoCo side, some on the Balto. Co. side, 95% of the trails are still covered in snow and ice. My guess is Sunday will be the last day to get some riding in before the full melt off takes place and it turns to a swamp. The farm loop is starting to thaw and I suspect by Sunday afternoon it should be avoided. The only areas where you may see some dirt are ones with a lot of southern exposure and little-to-no shade. As things melt this will change. If you see a trail that has no snow, DON'T RIDE IT. Their are plenty of other options that are good to go. After Sunday, say buh-bye to Avalon for a while.

[riderx]

Update to my earlier post:
Did a late afternoon hike on the Balto. Co side over in the Hilton area (tire park). From Hilton out to the Dam (Hilltop Rd.) all of the southern facing hills are bare of snow and wet. In other words, not rideable. If you come in from the Park and Ride your best bet is to head straight to the HoCo side. See additional info in previous post.

[crashedandburne]

anyone know what the conditions are this weekend?

[riderx]

Avalon 2/12/2005 Just got back from a road ride and while I was out did a trail assessment. Avalon is WET, but people are still riding and leaving a bad impression (pun intended) with their tire tracks. Still needs a solid week of dry, warm weather.

[crashedandburne]

will be ridable????

[wa2be]

Does anyone know if any portions of Avalon are dry enough to ride this weekend? I opted for McKeldin instead last weekend. There was a lot of mud on the river-level trails. The rest of it was decent, but still muddy in spots, with tons of trail damage from horses and run-off. I've got a serious case of spring fever, and everytime I step into my garage I swear I can hear my bike taunting me, daring me to go for a ride.

[UpOnTwo]

I havn't been on the trails lately but I live down the street from the trail head at the park-n-ride and work at UMBC and all the ground is soaked bad. That's how I judge the trail conditions for Avalon. If it was me, I wouldn't ride there, in fact I havn't riden there since January.

I know we are all itching to ride there, but I would hate to do more damage to the trails. Anyway that's just me. I think me and my friend might go to Gambrills this weekend. That would be the place to go.

[langer]

Does anyone know if any portions of Avalon are dry enough to ride this weekend? I opted for McKeldin instead last weekend. There was a lot of mud on the river-level trails. The rest of it was decent, but still muddy in spots, with tons of trail damage from horses and run-off. I've got a serious case of spring fever, and everytime I step into my garage I swear I can hear my bike taunting me, daring me to go for a ride.
tomorrow morning (2/19) might be a perfect time to hit up avalon. forecast says a low of 18 tonite, plus with the recent frozen precip, the trails should be frozen stiff for most of the morning. the "suck you tires off the rims" mud may not be all frozen, but i bet most of the trails will be.

[RetroG]

It's lookin' good.

[learncom21]

We rode last week at Avalon from the P&R @ 0800 and the trails were frozen soild. Tomorrow's high is only 39 degrees, and tonight's low is 18. I don't believe we'll have any problems tomorrow and we'll be out in time if it start's to melt down.

[2big2ride]

With the warmer temps we had early on in the week, and the RAIN ( no frozen stuff there) The ground is still pretty warm and WET. Yeah it might be down to 18 tonight, but all that really does is freeze the top crust. You will still break thru and get into the gushy stuff. Give it a few more days please......

Head to the shed!

[jlang002]

With the warmer temps we had early on in the week, and the RAIN ( no frozen stuff there) The ground is still pretty warm and WET. Yeah it might be down to 18 tonight, but all that really does is freeze the top crust. You will still break thru and get into the gushy stuff. Give it a few more days please......

Head to the shed!
the top soil downtown was frozen stiff after last night and the light dusting of snow. plus temps in the city are always higher than at patpasco...i'll definitely be out in patapsco tomorrow morning, but trust me, i'll leave if i think i'm doing damage.

[bikerRob]

With the warmer temps we had early on in the week, and the RAIN ( no frozen stuff there) The ground is still pretty warm and WET. Yeah it might be down to 18 tonight, but all that really does is freeze the top crust. You will still break thru and get into the gushy stuff. Give it a few more days please......

Head to the shed!

2/19/05 >> I went down the Cascade trail (Howard Co. side) (hiking) Friday just to check conditions out for the weekend. I didn't have to go far. Temps at the time were about mid twenties (3:00 pm ). There were a lot of soft spots on the trails, however it was clear to see that some people are still chosing to ride. For the most part I wasn't seeing a lot of trail damage but that was because most of the trails were still semi-frozen or dry. I talked to one rider who had done a loop and he said the trails weren't too bad. I didn't see a lot of mud on his bike so perhaps he was right. We both agreed that there were still quite a few soft spots along sections of the Cascade and Morning choice trails. IMHO I believe these to be border-line conditions: Riding is okay as long as you have the common sense not to try to crest a hill if the hill is too soft...(step off and walk). As I write it is currently 18 degrees. You might be able to get a decent ride in Saturday if you get there before it starts to warm up otherwise I'd stay away...The Shed might indeed be the better option

[2big2ride]

With the cold stuff we had last night,and the freezing this morning, the trails were frozen solid at 7 AM this morning. As the sun was coming out, the trails could easily become softer mid-day. The sunrise crew was out in force this morning. There were alreadty two other trucks at the small area on Landing RD as I pulled in at 6:50 am today.

[langer]

With the cold stuff we had last night,and the freezing this morning, the trails were frozen solid at 7 AM this morning. As the sun was coming out, the trails could easily become softer mid-day. The sunrise crew was out in force this morning. There were alreadty two other trucks at the small area on Landing RD as I pulled in at 6:50 am today.
i got there around 8:30 this morning...trails were nicely frozen. just as i was leaving around 11:30, the trails on south slopes were softening up. don't go out there this afternoon, it'll be sloppy in spots!

[Dobbs]

By "the shed," are we talking about the Frederick Watershed - Hamburg Road?

[drevil]

By "the shed," are we talking about the Frederick Watershed - Hamburg Road?
Yup, that's the only place I ever think of when I hear "the shed". Unless it's coming from a guy with a dixie flag shirt, a mullet, and yellow teeth, saying, "Let's do a ride in the shed." In that case, I run. Fast.

[Dobbs]

Thanks. Never tried it before. Going today instead of the possibly too-damp Avalon (Sun AM).

[cbass]

Avalon is a wreck right now and it's pretty much defenseless to more damage...mud, ruts, etc.

It needs an extended dry period to absorb the melting snow and firm up.

It's not even getting cold enough at night to freeze the mud.

Hopefully we'll have a run of dry windy weather to get things back in shape.

Go do some hill repeats up Ilchester in the meantime.

[bikerRob]

Avalon is a wreck right now and it's pretty much defenseless to more damage...mud, ruts, etc.

It needs an extended dry period to absorb the melting snow and firm up.

It's not even getting cold enough at night to freeze the mud....

.

3/09/05 >> ...and so it is. I got home last night about 1:00 AM and noticed the mud in front of my building was nice and crispy hard. I figured a ride at Avalon just might be do-able. I've been getting antsy just waiting to try out my new F/S rig so I thought today just might be the day. I started at the main trailhead off of Landing Rd. at the start of the Cascade trail. My plan was to bear right at the start and come around CC-clockwise and take the Cascade trail back to the car. By the time I got to Norris Rd. ( about 100 yds.) it was clear to see that the trails were a mess so I quickly ditched off onto the main Rd. and went back to the car. There was only one other car at the trailhead. As I was getting ready to leave, Mr. & Miss Red Volvo arrived at their car looking like a couple of mud puppies. Not only were they covered in mud but their bikes looked like they had been dipped in Chocolate. It was so bad I couldn't see any paint. It was real tempting to wind the window down and say something like, "What...You couldn't tell the trails were too muddy to ride?". As bad as it is right now I doubt that Avalon is going to recover anytime soon. :(

[riderx]

First Spring work day at Avalon is on Sunday 3/20

Mark your calendar.

Details (http://www.more-mtb.org/forum/calendar.php?do=getinfo&day=2005-3-20&c=2)

[UpOnTwo]

3/09/05 >> ...and so it is. I got home last night about 1:00 AM and noticed the mud in front of my building was nice and crispy hard. I figured a ride at Avalon just might be do-able. I've been getting antsy just waiting to try out my new F/S rig so I thought today just might be the day. I started at the main trailhead off of Landing Rd. at the start of the Cascade trail. My plan was to bear right at the start and come around CC-clockwise and take the Cascade trail back to the car. By the time I got to Norris Rd. ( about 100 yds.) it was clear to see that the trails were a mess so I quickly ditched off onto the main Rd. and went back to the car. There was only one other car at the trailhead. As I was getting ready to leave, Mr. & Miss Red Volvo arrived at their car looking like a couple of mud puppies. Not only were they covered in mud but their bikes looked like they had been dipped in Chocolate. It was so bad I couldn't see any paint. It was real tempting to wind the window down and say something like, "What...You couldn't tell the trails were too muddy to ride?". As bad as it is right now I doubt that Avalon is going to recover anytime soon. :(
I agree with you , we're all ready to carve up Avalon. I live down the street from the trailhead and I see people riding the hell out of the place when they should stay away. Maybe there newby's or something, but I doubt it. Let the mud eat the @uck out of their components and watch them lay out the bucks to replace them. Good for the LBS but not the trails.

RiderX mentioned a trail work day, so lets get out there! :D

[Dobbs]

Any condition reports? Been out of town. Thanks, Dobbs

[wa2be]

I rode the Howard County side yesterday after work, starting up at Landing Road. I took the Morning Choice trail down to the Rockburn Branch loop and back (about 5 miles). Overall, the trails are in good shape. I only encountered 2 small mud holes. Everything else is soft, but mostly dry. Plus, I saw 2 large groups of deer near the open fields on the Belmont property. It sure was nice to be back out on the trails!

[Dobbs]

Went out yesterday also and found same conditions. Got to get out again before Saturday (snow/rain?).

[bikerRob]

I rode the Howard County side yesterday after work, starting up at Landing Road. I took the Morning Choice trail down to the Rockburn Branch loop and back (about 5 miles). Overall, the trails are in good shape. I only encountered 2 small mud holes. Everything else is soft, but mostly dry.... It sure was nice to be back out on the trails!

3/17/05 >> Yes, it is great to be back on the trails again! Avalon is ready and waiting ...are you? All the trails are either dry or moist with very little (if any) mud. I rode today doing many of the trails on the Howard Co. side. Everything I saw was sweet. Get it now before it rains...chance for rain on Saturday. Oh, and one more thing....A trail work day is scheduled for Sunday at Patapsco. Come on out and help. :)

Rob

[old_bashturd]

:D
Did both the Ho CO side and the Balt CO side. Trails are dry and in great shape. Hopefully the rain will hold off tonight.

[langer]

trails were the best i've seen them in a long time today...after the rain tonite and tomorrow, may be a while before they're this dry again! get out there! :D

[bikelephant]

Wow!! great day to ride. Hope you could get out today. Looks like the rain may be coming so hopefully someone can give early conditions tomorrow before too many people get out.

[riderx]

2.5 inches of rain at Avalon on Wednesday (3/24), don't even think about riding there.

[bikerRob]

3/26/05 >> I took a quick looksie today about 5:00 PM at the Cascade Trail off of Landing Rd...There were a couple mud holes and some soft terrain here and there but for the most part it looked pretty good. As long as we don't get any precipitation during the night I think Avalon should be go to go for an Easter ride.. :)

[riderx]

3/26/05 >> I took a quick looksie today about 5:00 PM at the Cascade Trail off of Landing Rd...There were a couple mud holes and some soft terrain here and there but for the most part it looked pretty good. As long as we don't get any precipitation during the night I think Avalon should be go to go for an Easter ride.. :)My professional opinion is: no way. My yard (1 mile from Avalon) is still so soaked it oozes water when I walk on it. And the riders I saw at the trailhead today were covered head-to-toe in mud.

[RetroG]

My professional opinion is: no way. My yard (1 mile from Avalon) is still so soaked it oozes water when I walk on it. And the riders I saw at the trailhead today were covered head-to-toe in mud.


Don't do it. It's just plain wrong.

Thanks for the consideration.

[old_bashturd]

Took a road ride yesterday, went through the park roads. Got a good look at most of the trail heads, Very wet! Lots of standing water still. It needs at least a week of dry weather before I'd even consider riding there.

[bikerRob]

3/26/05 >> I took a quick looksie today about 5:00 PM at the Cascade Trail off of Landing Rd...There were a couple mud holes and some soft terrain here and there but for the most part it looked pretty good. As long as we don't get any precipitation during the night I think Avalon should be good to go for an Easter ride.. :)

3/27/05 >> 4:00 PM, Temp. 45', light drizzle >>> ....and then it rained. Oh...Shhhhh...sugar... :rolleyes: Oh well...that's how it goes sometimes. Like yesterday, I took another quick hike of the Cascade trail. This time I took trails more notorious for getting soft. Undoubtedly, the drizzly rain had taken effect and made some of the trails very slick and soft in places. Not the idea situation for a ride. The good news...if we can ever get a couple days above 50 degrees that are "DRY", Avalon should recover pretty fast. It could be some time before that happens though as the weeky forecast doesn't look very promising.

[cbass]

My professional opinion is: no way. My yard (1 mile from Avalon) is still so soaked it oozes water when I walk on it. And the riders I saw at the trailhead today were covered head-to-toe in mud.

Did you castigate them?
Or throw a pedal wrench at them?
What were they thinking???

[riderx]

Did you castigate them?
Or throw a pedal wrench at them?
What were they thinking???I was driving by on my way back from the Shed. I mentally flipped them the bird and resisted the urge to swerve and run them down.

[bikerRob]

I was driving by on my way back from the Shed. I mentally flipped them the bird and resisted the urge to swerve and run them down.

3/29/05 >> ...and while on the subject of mental imagery...um...could we please refrain (mr. CBASS ) from using any word that starts with C-A-S-T ...I mean, it's just too darn close to...to...( please excuse me for a while...I think I just shriveled away.. :D )

[RetroG]

The good news...if we can ever get a couple days above 50 degrees that are "DRY", Avalon should recover pretty fast. .


A couple of days above 50 does not do the job at Avalon. It is supposed to be 60 and sunny until Friday. Go for a walk on Thursday evening and you will see. I don't know what your definition of ridable is, but that place will be muddy with potential for damage for a week at least!!

[riderx]

A couple of days above 50 does not do the job at Avalon. I agree, we've had around 5 inches of rain in the past week. While a few trails may dry out most will be wet and it will be impossible to do a ride of any length without doing damage. Provided we get dry, warm weather we are looking at a week minimum before Avalon should even be considered.

[old_bashturd]

I was driving by on my way back from the Shed. I mentally flipped them the bird and resisted the urge to swerve and run them down.

I've resisted that urge myself. Have the Park officials ever talked about closing the park when the trails are wet, like they do with Schafer?

[riderx]

Have the Park officials ever talked about closing the park when the trails are wet, like they do with Schafer?I don't know. Trail Liason Mike K. might be able to better answer that. However, considering the common access points it would probably be impossible.

[bikerRob]

3/30/05 >> Today, out of curiosity, I went down to the Landing Rd. trailhead to check out the trail conditions ( around 3:20 PM ).
Wow! You should have seen all the cars there! I saw at least 4-5 people on Mt. bikes. Anyway, I went and did my usual walk-thru.
Surprisingly, much of the trail surfaces are pretty dry....However....there were multiple soft spots. Some of these spots were very, very soft. One guy on a bike went thru a spot that sunk more than three inches...didn't even leave tread marks...just a gash. Now that's my definition of too soft. Some people simply have no sense. As I walked down the Cascade trail I came upon a 70 ft. section that still had water running down it....not good. After crossing the first stream I took the trail that bears left up the hill. This trail still had a stream of water running down it too....not good at all. If it was me...I wouldn't ride...even though I'm dieing to.
That all said, it looks like the weather is going to take a turn for the worst..rain Thurs, Fri, and Sat....how disgusting. My apology for using the phase, "couple of days" on a previous post. I should of said something like, " a number of days". Anyone who has ridden Avalon on a regular basis knows how unpredictable the conditions can be. Sometimes it's ready before you think it is and sometimes it's the other way round. Avalon...the Lady continues to amaze me. ( P.S. Joe, I'm not sure the "mud on a bike " thing is a good litmus test for conditions cause I saw several people arriving at the trailhead with mud already on their bikes. )

[riderx]

P.S. Joe, I'm not sure the "mud on a bike " thing is a good litmus test for conditions cause I saw several people arriving at the trailhead with mud already on their bikes.As a rider who cleans his bike bi-annually I can agree with that. But when I see the rider covered in mud I usually assume they didn't drive to the trailhead that way ;)

[bikerRob]

4/01/05 >> Temp 62'F. No rain for last 4.5 days..2:30 PM ride start >> Prognoses - Discretionary rides only . >> Today I did a discretionary ride starting from Rockburn park by the school. I decided before I left that if I saw anything too muddy I would either take another trail or just go back the way I came. From Rockburn I crossed over into Avalon and headed down the Morning choice trail toward the Landing Rd. trailhead. Along this section everything looked fine. There's a rather big dead fall just as you take the branch that bears left toward Norris Rd. I then took the Cascade trail down to where my previous reviews took place. The previous 75ft. wet section was down to 25 to 30 ft. and had no running water although it was still wet. I rode thru to test the trail surface and was leaving only a tread foot print. Not too bad. It's easy to see the drier spots if you know what to look for and are riding slow enough. Over all the trails looked pretty good. I still suggest staying away from the area of Belmount and the western most loop of the Cascade trail that loops back up the hill toward Landing Rd...it was still very wet. The worse mud of the day I saw only in Rockburn. I rode thru it too and left only a foot print. The only evidence of mud on my bike was normal splash-up from the stream crossings. Mud on my tires only came up to the tire logos..( and that was from Rockburn ) If you're going to ride, ride only today and ride only the good (drier) trails. Keep your speed down...it's not ready for that yet. Looks like it's calling for rain tonight and tomorrow...lets hope it passes us by. Rob

[bikelephant]

4/01/05 >> Temp 62'F. No rain for last 4.5 days..2:30 PM ride start >> Prognoses - Discretionary rides only . >> Today I did a discretionary ride starting from Rockburn park by the school. I decided before I left that if I saw anything too muddy I would either take another trail or just go back the way I came. From Rockburn I crossed over into Avalon and headed down the Morning choice trail toward the Landing Rd. trailhead. Along this section everything looked fine. There's a rather big dead fall just as you take the branch that bears left toward Norris Rd. I then took the Cascade trail down to where my previous reviews took place. The previous 75ft. wet section was down to 25 to 30 ft. and had no running water although it was still wet. I rode thru to test the trail surface and was leaving only a tread foot print. Not too bad. It's easy to see the drier spots if you know what to look for and are riding slow enough. Over all the trails looked pretty good. I still suggest staying away from the area of Belmount and the western most loop of the Cascade trail that loops back up the hill toward Landing Rd...it was still very wet. The worse mud of the day I saw only in Rockburn. I rode thru it too and left only a foot print. The only evidence of mud on my bike was normal splash-up from the stream crossings. Mud on my tires only came up to the tire logos..( and that was from Rockburn ) If you're going to ride, ride only today and ride only the good (drier) trails. Keep your speed down...it's not ready for that yet. Looks like it's calling for rain tonight and tomorrow...lets hope it passes us by. Rob
Just want to thank bikerRob for these series of posts. I'm about 20 mins away from Patpsco and I am really benefiting from the updates. Keep em coming.

[riderx]

2 inches of rain. Stay away from Avalon unless you are bringing the kayak.

[bikerRob]

4/04/05 >> I'll continue this week to do some walk-thru's in Avalon. Most of these will occur in the early afternoon so they should be of interest to anyone who is thinking about doing a post-work ride. Wither or not we will be able to get any rides in this week is a tough call. Certainly not any time soon. The best I can tell, Avalon received another 2+ inches of rain last Friday and Saturday. According to some of the weather web sites, the ground was all ready saturated before the last rain hit. That means that most of what we saw on Fri. and Sat. will have ended up as being runoff simply because the ground couldn't soak up any more water. I suppose that's a good thing, however in places where water tends to pool it might take a good number of days before the water can drain or evaporate. So far, Sunday and Monday have been great. The warm sunny weather coupled with high winds will (should) really do a lot to speed the recovery. The good weather should continue till Weds. but once again the reports call for a 50% chance of rain on Thursday :( . If all goes good, maybe we can get a ride on Weds....* Good Lord willing and the creek don't rise.

[riderx]

Road through the park on the pavement yesterday (3/4), streams that usually aren't flowing are raging, the paved pathes and roads are wet in a lot of spots because water is leaching out of the hillsides. On a positive note, the work we did at the last maintenance day is holding up nicely. The trail was surprisingly dry for being dead flat.

I've drastically edited this post since I have heard from two seperate sources that there are a lot of dry trails. We did get a lot of wind Sunday and a very warm day Monday, so this may be true. So, if you go out, avoid the notoriously wet spots and bail if the trails are sloppy. I can't stress enough that after a rain event(s) like we've just had Avalon needs to be approached with caution

[bikerRob]

... On a positive note, the work we did at the last maintenance day is holding up nicely. The trail was surprisingly dry for being dead flat.

I've drastically edited this post since I have heard from two seperate sources that there are a lot of dry trails. We did get a lot of wind Sunday and a very warm day Monday, so this may be true. So, if you go out, avoid the notoriously wet spots and bail if the trails are sloppy....

4/05/05 >> Thanks RiderX, your post gave me reason to take my bike today...just in case and boy I'm I glad I did! The trails I rode looked good today. Surprise..Surprise...Surprise! ( said in Gomer Pyle fashon ) I started at the Landing Rd. main trailhead and headed down the Cascade trail. There were a number of mud spots along the way but nothing worthy of throwing the baby out with the bath water. I experienced no tire loading or mud splash up at all. I came back around (clockwise) up the Morning Choice trail...it was dry, dry , dry. There was however signs of some trail erosion caused by all the latest runoff. The Morning Choice could really use some strategically placed water bars to divert water. The previously mentioned dead-fall ( Morning Choice spur trail ) has been removed...thanks. My bike is clean and ready for the next ride...Yeah! :D

[riderx]

Soapstone (the trail in from the park and ride) is a disaster. Otherwise, most stuff on the Baltimore County side of the park is dry with a few low spots still wet and muddy. Trail work (http://www.more-mtb.org/forum/calendar.php?do=getinfo&day=2005-4-17&c=2) is on 4/17, come out and put things back together.

[cbass]

How about the HoCo side?

[wa2be]

How about the HoCo side?

I rode the Morning Choice trail and most of the Ridge trail yesterday afternoon. Both were in good condition overall, with some small mud holes in the usual spots. The only really bad section I encountered was the long downhill stretch that runs from the intersection of the Morning Choice and Rockburn Branch trails down to the road along the Patapsco river. There was a lot of water and mud all the way down that hill. As far as the rest of the HoCo side, I'd assume that the Belmont trail is probably way too muddy to ride just yet, and I usually stay off the Cascade trail after heavy rains.

[cbass]

Thanks.
I think I'll wait another day.
Hopefully it won't rain tomorrow.
Today I'll test my road skillz on the EC Hillz.

[old_bashturd]

Rode the HO CO side yesterday. Things were pretty good, most trails were dry and fast. A few small muddy spots that We got off and walked over. We stayed off the Belmont loop, sure thats still a mess. Cascade had 2 muddy spots after the 2nd bridge that we walked too. Overall, not too bad. A week of sunny weather would dry it out nicely. We did get some showers last night, so not sure about the weekend. If it stays dry, Sunday would be the best bet.

[cbass]

I'll second the 'turd's assessment.

Most everything was very dry...however, if it wasn't dry it was a big mudhole...no middle ground.

The rockier trails and those along the ridge have drained well. The usual low lying spots should be avoided.

Kudos to the trail maintenance folks. The drainage ditches and trail armouring seems to be helping out a lot.

I think Sunday will be good.

[riderx]

Overall things are good, dry and rideable with the occassional mud hole. Soapstone is still gnarly but beginning to dry out. And of course I'd avoid the Belmont/Farm/Swamp loop.

[Atomic.cocktail]

Most of all the trails are dry, there are still the real muddy spots by Belmont...the drop in at park and ride is drying out, nicely (but still the most eroded trail)....creeks are still a little high..and you still have some hill side "seepage" run off at some of the better climbs...the best riding should be this weekend...I'll be out all day..

[bikerRob]

4/19/05 >> Things are looking great at Avalon. The trails are very dry and sandy in spots. Be careful taking tight turns at speed. Special note*...The major stream crossing on the Morning choice trail is developing quite a hole (underwater) by the western most bank. It's not much of a problem if you're headed east but if you're headed west it makes trying to climb the west bank pretty hard...expect to submerge your Bottom bracket. :( The alternative is to use the trail that crosses a little futher up-stream.

[cowboy00242]

Went riding yesterday (4/18), and started in Rockburn Park, near the school.

While most of the trails leading to Landing Road were dry, there were a few wet spots... and by wet, I mean serious bogs which are only getting worse as people ride around them. While they are only a handful of areas, they are really, really bad. Some are drying out, only to reveal serious damage done by riders. I for one feel compelled to avoid this entire area for the season.

I am under the impression that the strip of land between Rockburn and Patapsco is privately held. Along thos lines, I heard there was an attempt being made to contact the landowner about some possible maintenance on that area. Is that true?

[bikerRob]

4/25/05 >> I got a chance to take a nice ride Sunday starting at Rockburn and going all the way over to the Balt. side of Patapso. Trails were in prime condition. It seems the speckling of rain we got on Saturday was just enough to moisten the trails without causing any muddy spots. Nothing like riding nice moist/firm hard packed trails. :) ...but boy was it cold!! :eek: Thank God I bring extra stuff along. I still had my tights in the car and boy was I glad. It was like 42'F with a 10mph wind...very chilly. I also got a look at some of the recent trail work done on the Soap Stone trail..very nice. I don't know why it is but when ever I see new/recent cut trails, someone must call the horse people up and say...Hey, lets ride this trail today! Anyway, I couldn't help but notice the hoof prints along the freshly cut trail. (Geez!) You'd think they could wait awhile and give the trail some time to firm up. That all said, at least the damage was minimal. Over all it was a great day for a ride with almost no mud at all to speak of except for one small puddle along the Cascade trail.

[old_bashturd]

Rode Sunday too, Trails are in great shape. Climbed Soapstone too, and Our work is holding up well, even though it looked like Seabiscuit was doing hill repeats on it.

[rdemp]

assuming you folks are talking about the section of Soapstone that parallels the campground road ... nice job! lots of challeges eliminated (booo), but trail is now passable the whole way - for me ... I ride a cyclocross on the trails.

http://www.more-mtb.org/forum/showthread.php?t=1023

I was on the trail yesterday (May 5) and it was real passable, no evidence of serious horse traffic (that I saw).


Rick

[bikerRob]

5/06/05 >> Yesterday I was out and about in Patapsco/ Avalon and thought I'd take my first looksie at how the Belmount farms trail is holding up. This is really a great trail, it's too bad it tends to get toe'up by all the go-arounds/short-cuts. Most of the trail was dry but there were two or three really muddy/problem spots. At the minor stream crossing, things have gotten ugly. Boy what a small bridge couldn't do here. Too bad it's mostly private property, I guess the owners must not care how many by-passes are made. I have to admit... :( ....this trail is an embarrassment to all Mt. bikers. ( What with all the by-passes and short cuts and tell- tail bike tracks) If someone wanted to make us look bad, all they'd have to do is take a couple of photos here and we'd all be put to shame.

As it is right now, the trail is rideable...as long as your willing to step off your bike a couple times to get around the mud. Really no problem. I know I've seen this question before but I'm gonna ask it again...does anyone know who owns the property(?) and will they let MORE do some maintanance on the trail??

[riderx]

does anyone know who owns the property(?) and will they let MORE do some maintanance on the trail??There are several property owners. Someone is currently trying to get permission to do work back there, but because it is private property and there are many owners, it's a little complicated. I will ping my guy and see if any progress has been made. He has told me that the landowners are receptive to having work done and enjoy having the trail there and like that people use is. That is good for us. Hopefully that sentiment is held by all owners.