Thursday, July 7, 2011

Mary's Peak - Another reason to live and ride in Corvallis

I have mentioned several times what a perfect place Corvallis is for mountain bikers.  There is year around riding and within about an hour, even more of the best riding in the country. But the best part is the variety, from Black Rock groomed obstacles to the high desert riding in Bend, to the forests of the McKenzie Trial or Oak Ridge.  One of those gems close to us in Mary's Peak.

A group of us said good bye to the rain, the snow, and June by hitting Mary's peak.  We started at the Woods Creek parking lot and road the watershed road to the East Rim trail head, then climbed the East Rim to the parking lot and up to the top.  We finished by coming down the North Rim trail, which was in perfect condition, except for 15 large trees that were down across the trail (most in the top half).  This was a week before the 4th of July weekend, so I hope they get cleared soon. 

This ride has it all, spectacular views, great climbing, technical descents, even a log ride at the bottom.  It is a special place that is shared by hikers and bikers (and no horses).
Climbing the East Rim

Near the East Rim Bench

What a view

On Top

Riding the Roots on North Rim