LaGrandeRide.com
Trail Updates 2006

Archery Range Trails
New Sections Added to Skills Challenge
August 29, 2006 - Two new sections add distance and more challenge to the "Skills" trail for the 2006 riding season. A new section in the northwest area winds higher up on the ridge. On the lower southeast portion new trails wind easterly and then drop west below the Igo parking area before paralleling the fence back up to the gate. This includes a distinctive slalom-style section with an opportunity to launch off a north-shore style jump.

Two new trails are planned. Igo Up/Igo Down--easy ride up and down from Igo Lane--must be for beginners, no technical stuff. The other is Super D: super fast, up and down. This will extend from Archery Range Road up to Mt. Emily Road and back down.

Archery Range Lease Benefits Local Mountain Bikers
August 18, 2006 - Near the end of July, the Board of Directors for the Blue Mountain Singletrack Trail Club voted to enter a lease agreement for a key portion of the Mt. Emily property owned by Forest Capital Partners/Gallatin. The leased includes the property from Mt. Emily Road east to the edge of the property. This area includes the popular mountain biking trails known as The Archery Range System (aka Mt. Emily Trails, Igo Lane).

The land is now designated for non-motorized use only, except for Mt. Emily Rd (4x4s and ATVs allowed), Igo Lane (ATV only), and portions of Conley Creek Rd (ATV only). The area is open to horseback riders, but may be closed to horse activity if trail damage continues. Horseback riders should refrain from trail use in wet conditions.

Another important aspect of the lease is an agreement to allow events, post signs, implement trail closures, and coordinate maintenance and clean-up.

On November 1, all motorized use of the area will be curtailed.

The lease runs through April 2, 2007. Ongoing fundraising efforts are necessary to cover the lease, insurance costs, signage, and trail improvements. Contributing organizations include the Blue Mountain Singletrack Trail Club, Grande Ronde Road Runners, and the Nordic Club. Those interested in contributing should contact Bart Barlow.