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Head East, Young Man

For a dry side version of “fall colors,” head east to the Ochoco National Forest and lay some tracks on the Round Mountain/Lookout Mountain trails.

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For a dry side version of "fall colors," head east to the Ochoco National Forest and lay some tracks on the Round Mountain/Lookout Mountain trails. Aspen groves and stands of Western larch pepper the forests here along with the ubiquitous ponderosa pine in its favored habitat of "open park-like stands." The scenery, wildlife and diverse forest types make for a unique visual experience, but the flow and technical challenge of the trails are what makes this area so muchfun for mountain biking. Current trail conditions are a little "fresh" from the recent contract trail work that was completed this summer.

COTA has also just received notice that there is some pending timber harvest activity along the Skyliner trail and the Upper and Lower Whoops trails. Any trail closures will be clearly posted at the trailhead areas, but all trail users should use caution on these trails. Please do not disturb the markings and ribbons in these areas. For the latest information as always consult the COTA website, cotamtb.com

This weekend please join COTA, the friends and family of Steve Larsen and the Bend Dental Group for the second Steve Larsen work event and barbecue. We will gather at the old Mt. Bachelor Park & Ride off Simpson Avenue in Bend and carpool to various work sites in the new Wanoga area. We will gather at 9:45 a.m. and then head to the trails. Trail work will go until about 2:00 p.m. at which time we will all gather at the Wanoga trail head/sledding hill and enjoy a huge BBQ hosted by COTA and Bend Dental Group. We hope to accomplish the official "opening" of a couple of brand new trails on this and the next weekend at COTA's Annual Biketoberfest. Make sure you are a part of increasing the trail menu in central Oregon.

Please see the COTA website for trail work requirements and gear suggestions like, "Please bring a hydration pack with water and a snack and be sure to bring appropriate layers to accommodate whatever the weather may be." Remember, COTA will supply all the tools and expertise. You supply the enthusiasm!

Thanks and we hope to see you out there!

Please send all trail-related comments, questions and concerns to [email protected].