Adventure Sports Journal // April/May 2019 // #108

EARN YOUR BEER / GEAR WE LOVE / EVENT PROFILES / CALENDAR

APRIL / MAY 2019 ISSUE #108

Tahoe Trails A SHORT HISTORY

FESTIVAL GUIDE BIKE TOURING HWY 50

BIG WATER

RAFTING PRIMER

CALIFORNIA BICYCLE COALITION FOREST SCHOOLS

14

CONTENTS April/May 2019 #108

features

10 F 14 F 16 C

estival

Guide

Music, sports, yoga & beer fests orest

Schools

Reconnecting children with nature alifornia Whitewater

A guide to this year’s big water

departments

6 7 8

Editor’s Note

The four pillars of adventure

Inbox

ASJ readers chime in

Ear to the Ground News & notes

20 22 24 28 29 32 38

California Bicycle Coalition Supporting the bike lifestyle

Bike Touring Hwy 50

“The Loneliest Road in America” Photo: Bruce Willey

10

Photo: High Sierra Music Festival / David Hammond Brown

16

Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride The story of a trail

Earn Your Beer

Snowshoeing, June Lake Brewing

Event Profiles

Featured upcoming events

Event Calendar

Adventure event calendar

Gear We Love

Goodies for an active lifestyle

Cover Greg Johnson rocking out on Tahoe Mountain with Mt. Tallac behind him. Photo: Anthony Cupaiuolo of First Tracks Productions

Photo: Zephyr Whitewater Expeditions

22

24

DON’T MISS AN ISSUE – Subscribe to ASJ Mail a check for $20 to PO Box 35, Santa Cruz, CA 95063 along with subscriber name and address, or order online at adventuresportsjournal.com/subscribe.

4 ASJ — April/May 2019

Photo: Leonie Sherman

Photo: Ben Fish

asj contributors what is one of your first bicycle memories?

PUBLISHING + EDITORIAL

leoniesherman

I remember a bright blue bike with a flowered banana seat that allowed me to get to the beach and find the best blackberry brambles without adult supervision.

brucewilley

When I was but a small lad, I was hit by a public safety officer. Rolled up on the hood, my helmet-less head hit the windshield. I have no memory of it. The bike, though, remembered everything and was useless thereafter.

jamesmurren

Riding on trails in the woods at the end of the alley behind the I house I grew up in, back in PA.

deannakerr

barrykruse

One of my favorite memories as a kid in the 80s was, after months of practicing, pedaling my first mountain bike to the top of the steep driveway to my house.

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Matt Niswonger matt@adventuresportsjournal.com MANAGING EDITOR Michele Charboneau michele@adventuresportsjournal.com COPY EDITOR Jennifer Stein jen@adventuresportsjournal.com CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Leonie Sherman, Bruce Willey, James Murren, Deanna Kerr, Barry Kruse, Kennedy Kruse CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Leonie Sherman, Bruce Willey, Brian Leddy, Harookz Photography, Photo John, Kasey Carames, David Hammond Brown, Tim Konrad, Gary Pearl, Allan Crawford, Jynx McTavish, Amy Fish, Ben Fish, Dave Clock, Greg Westergaard, James Murren LAYOUT Cathy Claesson & Michele Charboneau COVER DESIGN Juliann Klein ADVERTISING

I learned very early on; failing to tighten the axle nuts on the front wheel of a BMX bike before jumping means your forks will definitely ‘stick’ the landing.

kennedykruse We lived on a hill with a long, steep driveway that ended at the street. I was told many times not to ride down it. But I loved the terrified faces of the neighbor kids when I rode past them.

juliannklein

PUBLISHER Cathy Claesson cathy@adventuresportsjournal.com

When I was 12, I crashed on the rounded curb in front of my house. I was thrown off balance by a huge glass Coke bottle that then exploded and slashed my forehead and hand. Left a permanent mark on my skin and my memory.

michelecharboneau

I don’t remember riding bikes as a kid, but in 1989 I bought a mountain bike to get around town on ... oblivious to the fact it was designed for riding on dirt trails and there were people crazy enough to do that.

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Cathy Claesson I 831.234.0351 cathy@adventuresportsjournal.com

Have you been to The Other Side?

EVENTS & DISTRIBUTION Matt Niswonger matt@adventuresportsjournal.com EVENTS MARKETING Michele Charboneau michele@adventuresportsjournal.com Jennifer Stein jen@adventuresportsjournal.com Opinions expressed are those of the authors and not necessarily those of Adventure Sports Journal or our advertisers. We usually agree with our articles, but sometimes we don’t. We welcome all contributions.

Sand Dunes, Death Valley

The Owens River

All content © Adventure Sports Journal 2019.

No part of this publication may be reproduced without permission of the editors.

The Other Side Of California.

ADVENTURE SPORTS JOURNAL PO BOX 35, Santa Cruz, CA 95063 Phone 831.457.9453 asjstaff@adventuresportsjournal.com

Where today’s adventurers find their edge. Death Valley and the Eastern Sierra encompass more dramatic mountain and desert scenery than any region in North America. The timeless towns of Big Pine, Bishop, Death Valley, Independence and Lone Pine offer endless backcountry, camping, mountaineering, and majestic mountain vistas.

PROUD MEMBER

www.theothersideofcalifornia.com www. advent ur espor t sjour nal. com

5

Editor’s Note

Primal Bliss A Wild Person’s Guide to the Four Pillars of Adventure One of the main benefits of outdoor adventure is how it connects us to all kinds of really cool, wild people. Personally I’ve always felt that outdoor adventure is way better when shared with others.

The process of planning and executing a group adventure, whether it’s a two-hour surf session with a friend in Santa Cruz, a three-day guided raft journey with your extended family on the American River, a mountain bike weekend in Downieville with a dozen friends, an odyssey up the PCT with someone you just met while hiking the trail, or a few hours spent at your favorite ski resort doing tree runs with your kids, the shared rituals are pretty much sacred to me.

B

uilding a lifestyle around the rituals of shared adventure has been my focus for about twenty years now. When I’m not working my other job (yes I work outside), I’m constantly planning or executing some sort of group adventure in the outdoors. I call this lifestyle the “four pillars of adventure.”

For me the four pillars are surfing, climbing, mountain biking, and snowboarding. You may want to substitute kayaking or SUP for surfing, and you may want to substitute road biking for mountain biking or skiing for snowboarding, but you get the point. The idea is to pursue multiple adventure sports instead of just calling yourself a surfer, or a climber, or a mountain biker and doing one thing all year long.

Mixing it up keeps things fresh, and more importantly keeps me connected with all kinds of people I care about. For example, this morning I went surfing

with my brother, AKA the Richmaster, AKA Churchie, AKA Chard, AKA Bruno. I mention all these nicknames because we have so much shared adventure history that the memories reach all the way to our childhood. There were some fun, powerful waves rolling through but I wasn’t having much luck. Breathing hard, I took a break and sat up on my board outside the lineup to have a look around and rest. Just then the Richmaster dropped in on a nice wave and started carving his way in my direction.

As he got closer I could tell he was going fast because his board was making that rapid whipping sound that only happens when you are really blasting through the water. After making a wide bottom turn he shot back up the wave face right towards me until he was so close we almost could have high-fived.

As the wave rose beneath us, Richmaster turned again, this time rocketing down

The Richmaster checking the waves during a recent trip to Rincon.

the face and gaining more speed as the wave exploded right behind him. He was so locked in and perfectly in tune with the wave it was like everything had been choreographed. Watching him carve down the line, all I could do was sit there and smile as I realized he would probably be in a good mood for the rest of the day. Driving home we both celebrated his stellar ride and how great it feels to be locked in on a big, gnarly wave when everything comes together like it was meant to be.

When we first started ASJ nearly twenty years ago, the idea of pursuing more than one adventure sport seemed like a novel concept. Given the unique terrain of California and Nevada, we always thought it was more natural to be an outdoor jackof-all-trades, but back then you called yourself a surfer or a climber or a cyclist or a runner and you specialized in one thing.

Since that time I like to think we have had

the

fun

a positive influence on the outdoor culture and inspired many people in California and Nevada to pursue the four pillars of adventure. After all, surfing is amazing but sometimes there are no waves. Likewise, mountain biking is a blast but sometimes the trails are wet and muddy. Climbing in Yosemite is spectacular but sometimes it’s too cold and snowy. I say adapt with the conditions, pursue togetherness using shared outdoor rituals, and achieve primal bliss with the four pillars of adventure.

All of that said, what are your thoughts? If you pursue multiple adventure sports, what are they and how do you make it work?

We’d love to hear your story and we print as many emails as we can in every issue.

Feel free to share a story or two by emailing me at matt@adventuresportsjournal.com

—Matt Niswonger

starts here ...

The best place to view wildlife is on the water!

Kayak & SUP

Rentals • Tours • Classes

Santa Cruz Harbor 413 Lake Ave. 831.479.1121

Elkhorn Slough Moss Landing 831.724.5692

Two Great Locations in Monterey Bay!

Santa Cruz Mountains | 831.430.4357

mounthermonadventures.com 6 ASJ — April/May 2019

kayakconnection.com

Campfire memories from Sea Otter, 2017. ASJ editor, Matt Niswonger on the plasitc horn.

INBOX

Fanmail, Feedback, Ideas & Opinions

at home in nature

In response to Editor’s Note #107 Three Backcountry Tours AVALANCHE RISK In the last few years I’ve seen the number I just picked up a copy of the Feb/Mar ASJ of folks heading into the backcountry in the issue, that coupled with getting buried in an avalanche on Monday got me thinking winter increase at an unbelievable rate. The availability of higher tech gear and of course about getting the word out on avi safety. social media and cell phones, have allowed I’ve been in Tahoe for about 40 years and access without the need to acquire the Colorado’s Summit County for three years knowledge and skills, historically gathered before Tahoe. I have a LOT of backcountry over years in the backcountry. Just as days and a lot of experience under my climbing in an indoor gym does not directly skis. I got complacent and because of that, prepare someone for the unexpected during the monster storm we had this realities of climbing on real rock, (rock fall, week, I ended up buried over my head. I bees, rain stuck ropes, etc.), one avalanche was extremely lucky that the guy I was with course at REI or in the local Community was able to get to me and get me out before College does not prepare anyone for the I expired, but it could certainly have gone reality of an actual retrieval. differently.

Waterhouse was mentioned in the Feb/ I see tons of posts and articles about Mar issue of ASJ. A couple of years ago “being prepared” in the backcountry, but I there would be a handful of cars there on don’t believe they truly convey the reality of a powder day and fresh tracks could be had what happens when an avalanche happens. for weeks after a storm. The new normal In most articles and posts the sentiment is 50-100 cars lining the road with a conga seems to be if you have a beacon, probe line up the track. Although every single one and shovel, you’re good. It seems as if the of the folks in that line have a beacon and beacon in particular is worshiped as some shovel, a very small percentage of those magical device that will shield you from any folks have much if any, solid experience harm or at the very least allow one to be with what they should do with those items instantly whisked to safety. should someone end up buried.

For me, as I watched the lights going out As Publishers and Editor-In-Chief of ASJ in as the snow from the avalanche started the business of getting people “out there”, piling over my head, I had time to really I believe you guys have a responsibility, not comprehend how tenuous my position to sensationalize or alarm the uninitiated, really was. I’m not sure if I can pen a strong but to drive home the realities of the enough article to convey that sentiment, hazards that exist. but if not me, SOMEONE needs to.

And one last thing as long as I’m on my soapbox; just as visiting surfers are And one last thing as long as tasked with showing respect to locals at I’m on my soapbox; just as a surfbreak, those same surfers, out-ofvisiting surfers are tasked with towners, visitors, tourists, kooks, whatever you want to call them, should be tasked showing respect to locals at a with showing respect to the mountain surfbreak, those same surfers, locals at our home turf. out-of-towners, visitors, tourists, You guys have the medium and the audience, the opportunity is there, if it isn’t kooks, whatever you want to that’s fine, but please find someone to call them, should be tasked with me spread the word. showing respect to the As always, love the Journal, keep up the mountain locals at our home great work!

turf.

™ ™

• Comfortable • Affordable • Easy to Set Up • Eco-Friendly

From backyard studios to mountain retreats the Pacific Yurt goes where you want to be.

Call today:

800-944-0240

Design and price your yurt in 3D at

www.yurts.com

The Original Modern Yurt

TM

The Original Modern Yurt

TM

SAIL ABOARD THE

65' TEAM O’NEILL CATAMARAN!

— Doug Nurock, Tahoe

In Response: Thanks for your sincere and important words. After Bay Area skier Brett Herrick died (in bounds!) at Heavenly in February from snow immersion, a lot of people had second thoughts about charging into deep snow after a big storm. Glad you survived your close call. Another thing that became glaringly obvious after this season’s big storms is that Bay Area skiers need to wait for the roads to clear before heading up to Tahoe to ski. Heading up to Tahoe when the roads are still closed and clogging up Hwy 80 is a total kook move.

EARN YOUR BEER T-SHIRT SELECTION I love reading each issue (in print) of ASJ and enjoy receiving it in the mail. I subscribe to help ensure the longevity of the journal’s existence and ensure I do not miss an issue.

I saw your editor’s note in the most recent edition and noted on the website that all the “earn your beer” shirts have a bike attached to them. For those of us who don’t bike much, I wonder about making the same shirt with a snowboard or pair of skis. I would certainly buy a version with a snowboard to more perfectly match a day where I earn my beer.

Thanks for the great content.

— Hugh Harris, Sunnyvale

In Response: Thanks for subscribing Hugh. If you go to EarnYourBeer.com you will see we added some new designs. We don’t have a snowboard specific design yet, but our classic multisport “mountain” design has a snowboarder on it. Stay tuned and we will be releasing new shirt designs soon!

CATAMARAN SAILING IN SANTA CRUZ

Daytime Sails

Evening Sunset Sails

Seasonal Firework Sails

Wed. Night Regatta Sails

Wine & Beer Tastings

Wildlife Tours

Smooth Sailing for the Whole Family!

25 1-Hour Sails • $39 1.5-Hour Sails • $50 Special Event Sails

$

(831) 818-3645 www.ONeillYachtCharters.com @oneillyachtcharters

PRIVATE CHARTERS AVAILABLE YEAR-ROUND FOR SPECIAL OCCASIONS Taxes and fees not included. OYC’s captains and the Team O’Neill are U.S. Coast Guard licensed, insured and inspected annually. Aerial imagery ©Archer Koch of MultiRotorCam.

ASJ_4.656x6.125_03.19.indd 1

www. advent ur espor t sjour nal. com 7 3/15/19 4:06 PM

Photo: Brian Leddy

Carson City Off-Road Announces Date Change to June 28-30

Ear to the Ground

News & notes from the outdoor industry Photo: MSMBA

Mt. Shasta Trail Access to Expand

Forty-five miles of new trail is in the works for the Shasta Trinity National Forest. A collaboration between MSMBA (Mt. Shasta Mountain Bike Association), the US Forest Service, and Mount Shasta Trails Association, the proposed Gateway Phase II trail expansion project will open up additional non-motorized recreational opportunities for mountain biking, hiking, trail running, and horseback riding around the City of Mt. Shasta. Trails will connect to the existing Gateway trail system.

Trails will also link to Mt. Shasta Bike Park which boasts two chairlifts and over 25 miles of trail already developed. Scenic chairlift rides, hiking, disc golf and weddings are also available. The park is currently developing a “Beyond the Boundaries E-bike Experience” program which will introduce riders to a new trail network on Gray Butte.

From the bike park base at 5,500', e-bike enthusiasts will be able to access the top of Gray Butte at 8,129' via a service road ascent. For the ultimate adventure, riders may reserve a cabin on Gray Butte that accommodates up to eight people. Mt. Shasta Bike Park is scheduled to be open on weekends from June through September.

Learn more about the Gateway Phase II trail expansion and Mt. Shasta Bike Park at adventuresportsjournal.com/mt-shasta-trail-expansion.

8 ASJ — April/May 2019

To allow for this winter’s deluge of snowpack to melt, Epic Rides has pushed its Carson City Off-Road mountain bike race out a couple of weeks. The date of this popular threeday mountain bike race and festival has been moved from June 14-16 to June 28-30.

All levels of racers are welcome to participate in this event that offers three course lengths to choose from (15, 30, or 50-ish miles). Riders will take on some of the area’s best trails and roads that boast impressive views of Lake Tahoe, Washoe Valley and the Carson Valley.

Learn more at adventuresportsjournal.com/carsoncityoffroad2019.

Wildflower Cancelled

Citing “several external circumstances beyond our control,” Wildflower Experience organizers have made “the difficult decision” to cancel its iconic triathlon festival for 2019. Organizers promise a “better than ever” event for 2020, and are offering a priority entry process for 2019 entrants. Full refunds will be made to all of this year’s registrants.

Wildflower has had its share of setbacks. Extreme drought conditions from 2013 through 2016 forced the event to run on an altered course, resulting in decreased participation. Race director Terry Davis put the event “on hold” for 2017 but under new ownership the beloved triathlon festival came back strong with added events in 2018.

Learn more at adventuresportsjournal.com/wildflower-cancelled.

California Is Drought-Free for First Time since 2011

Winter storms that brought far-above-average rain and snow ended the seven year drought in our Golden State. As we go to press, snowpack in the Sierra is 159 percent above average. Winter resorts throughout the Sierra have announced an extended season.

Eppie’s Great Race is Resurrected as the Great American Triathlon

The World’s Oldest Triathlon may have ended with the 45th running of Eppie’s Great Race, but the tradition of a summertime triathlon on the American River Parkway will continue this July 20th with the inaugural Great American Triathlon. Sponsored by Innovations Health Systems, a Rosevillebased healthcare holding company, and managed by Capital Road Race Photo: Great American Triathlon Management, this year’s paddle triathlon will raise funds to support the American River Parkway Foundation and local children’s charities.

Set along the same course and comprised of the same 5.82-mile run, 12.5-mile bike ride, and 6.10-mile paddle events as Eppie’s Great Race, the Great American Triathlon is a challenging athletic competition that is as unique as it is fun.

Learn more at adventuresportsjournal.com/great-american-triathlon.

Trials Cyclist Danny MacAskill Returns to Sea Otter Classic

World-reknowned trials cyclist Danny McAskill will perform with fellow bicycle ninjas Fabio Wibmer and Duncan Shaw in the Drop and Roll Continental Show at Sea Otter Classic in Monterey April 11-14.

Offered all four days at this “Celebration of Cycling,” the Drop and Roll Continental Show promises to inspire and entertain festival attendees with flips, tricks, and Photo: Sea Otter Classic crowd participation.

Sea Otter Classic offers a wide range of cycling activities including races, demos, kids’ events, and more. Additionally, this year’s expansive expo will feature over 1,000 brands. Admission is free for ages 12 and under; and parking is also free.

Learn more at adventuresportsjournal.com/sea-otter-classic-2019.

“Bike for a Healthy California” License Plate Coming Soon

Photo: Harookz Photography

Be on the lookout for the new “Bike for a Healthy California” license plate for your car, truck, motorcycle, or trailer.

Funds support Earn-a-Bike and other school cycling programs, as well as driver and rider “share the road” safety classes, and initiatives that promote bikes as transportation. 7,500 pre-orders are needed to start production.

Look for the “Bike for a Healthy California” license plate at Sea Otter or get more information at adventuresportsjournal.com/bike-healthy-ca-license-plate.

CES Raffles Specialized Mountain Bikes to Benefit Truckee and Ashland Trails

Not just one, but two Specialized mountain bikes are to be raffled off this season by the California Enduro Series.

A 2019 Enduro Elite is slated to be raffled off at the series’ fourth round at Northstar California Resort in Truckee, which is also the seventh round of this year’s Enduro World Series (EWS). A 2019 Stumpjumper EVO will be raffled off at the series finale, the Ashland Mountain Challenge in Ashland, OR presented by Ashland Mountain Adventures. Proceeds from these raffles will benefit not only the non-profit enduro organization, but trails in Truckee and Ashland as well.

Learn more at adventuresportsjournal. com/ces-specialized-raffle.

KEEN Awards Funding to Outdoor Afro for Children’s Swim Program

KEEN has awarded Outdoor Afro two years of funding to support its “Learn to Swim” initiative. According to a 2014 study by the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), Black children ages 5 - 19 are 5.5 times more likely to die in swimming pools than their White counterparts.

The disparity is even greater for Black children ages 11 and 12, who are ten times more likely to drown.

This year, Outdoor Afro is focusing much of its efforts on changing these statistics. This non-profit organization celebrates and inspires African American connections and leadership in nature.

Learn more at adventuresportsjournal. com/keen-outdoor-afro.com. www. advent ur espor t sjour nal. com

9

High Sierra Music Festival

Best Fests of the

ASJ’s guide to a season of festival fun throughout California and beyond

H

ere comes festival season! There’s something for everyone, from gatherings for beer lovers to music fests to celebrations of the myriad of human-powered summer sports. Check out the highlights below and keep an eye on our website as we add to the list.

Music Strawberry Music Festival

>> Shakti Fest: Yoga and Sacred Music Festival – May 9-13 • Joshua Tree // Celebrating the devotional paths of yoga, Kirtan (sacred music) and meditation, with a special emphasis on the Divine Feminine. // bhaktifest.com/shaktifest >> Joshua Tree Music Festival (Spring) – May 16-19 • Joshua Tree // An intimate, family friendly festival with an eclectic line-up that draws a diverse crowd of discerning live music fans who love the outdoors. // joshuatreemusicfestival.com

Photo: Tim Konrad

>> Coachella – April 12-14 & 19-21 • Indio // Music and Arts Festival in the Coachella Valley. // coachella.com >> Lucidity Festival – April 12-14 • Santa Ynez // An open-source transformational arts and music festival. // lucidityfestival.com >> Desert Hearts – April 26-29 • Los Coyotes Indian Reservation // A tribute to House, Techno, & Love with intimate gatherings focused on art, music and community. // festival.deserthearts.us >> Back to the Beach – April 27-28 • Huntington Beach // Enjoy two days in the sand experiencing great music by the ocean. // backtothebeachfest.com >> West Coast Weekender – May 2-6 • San Diego County // A celebration of music, dance, and culture in Southern California. // westcoastweekender.net >> Lightning in a Bottle – May 8-13 • Buena Vista Lake // A collaborative community of musicians, fans, artists, adventurers. // lightninginabottle.org 10 ASJ — April/May 2019

>> Strawberry Music Festival – May 23-27 • Grass Valley // Normally a biannual music festival, this year’s Fall Festival in Tuolumne is cancelled (for the restoration of the Westside’s historic millpond), so make sure to not miss the spring Strawberry Music Festival, in Grass Valley, over the Memorial Day holiday weekend. // strawberrymusic.com >> Bottlerock Napa Valley – May 24-26 • Napa // Experience the first taste of summer with live music, wine, food and brew. // bottlerocknapavalley.com >> Kate Wolf Music Festival – Jun 27-30 • Laytonville // Relax and enjoy a great weekend with friends, family and lovers of fabulous music. // katewolfmusicfestival.com >> High Sierra Music Festival – July 4-7 • Quincy // A family-friendly, community oriented music festival amid the big pines of the Plumas-Sierra County Fairgrounds featuring an eclectic mix of genres including jamband, newgrass, funk, bluegrass, roots rock, electronica, reggae, jazz and afrobeat.

Attend playshops such as yoga, AcroYoga, pilates, stretching, and hoopdance. Hike and bike in the picturesque surrounding area.

Vendor stalls, arts and crafts, and gourmet food and drink round out an epic weekend of fun. // highsierramusic.com

>> California WorldFest – July 11-14 • Grass Valley // Honoring Native Peoples with an emphasis on conscious living and sustainability practices. // worldfest.net >> Bear Valley Music Festival – Jul 19-Aug 4 • Bear Valley // Enjoy a variety of music including classical, rock, country and jazz. // bearvalleymusicfestival.org >> Guitarfish Music Festival – July 25-28 • Cisco Grove // Funk-tastic musical line up, music playshops, yoga classes, access to world class mountain biking, hiking, and swimming. // guitarfishfestival.com >> Reggae on the River Festival – August 2-4 • French’s Camp // Reggae’s greatest songwriters, singers and musicians; benefits Mateel Community Center. // reggaeontheriver.com >> SF Outside Lands – August 9-11 • San Francisco // A Bay Area celebration of music, food, wine, beer, art and comedy, in beautiful Golden Gate Park. // sfoutsidelands.com >> Monterey Jazz Festival – September 27-29 • Monterey // The longest continuouslyrunning annual jazz event in the world. // montereyjazzfestival.org

BEER & MUSIC >> Mammoth Festival of Beers & Bluesapalooza – August 1-4 • Mammoth Lakes // Mammoth’s biggest party of the summer will delight all outdoor enthusiasts looking for a cool brew, blues and a good time. // mammothbluesbrewsfest.com >> Beerfest & Bluegrass – July 6 • Northstar Village // The Village comes alive with al fresco roots jams and fresh brews. Special activities for the kids, and food stations boasting relaxed summer fare. // northstarcalifornia.com

Beer >> Beerfest – The Good One! – June 8 • Santa Rosa // Taste a variety of brands and styles of regional craft beer and cider. Net proceeds benefit Face to Face, whose mission is to end HIV in Sonoma County while supporting the health and well-being of people living with HIV/AIDS. // beerfestthegoodone.com >> Truckee Optimist Brew Fest – June 9 • Truckee // This fun event is an annual fundraiser to support programs, sponsorships, grants and scholarships for the youth of Truckee. Over 40 brews, brats, BBQ, and silent auction. // truckeeoptimist.publishpath.com/ brew-fest

>> Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Festival – October 4-6 • San Francisco // This free festival at Golden Gate Park delivers the best bluegrass money cannot buy. // strictlybluegrass.com

>> Monterey Beer Festival – July 6 • Monterey // A great assortment of beer will be available at this festival; sample ales, lagers and ciders. // montereybeerfestival.com

>> Dirtybird Campout – October 4-6 • Waterford // Summer camp for adults with music, art, culture, and creativity. // dirtybirdcampout.com/west

>> Santa Cruz Hop ‘N Barley Beer Festival – July 13 • Scotts Valley // 50+ craft breweries, 12 cideries, two stages of live music, food, lawn games, and a fun, family- and dogfriendly atmosphere. // hopnbarley.org

>> Joshua Tree Music Festival (Fall) – October 10-13 • Joshua Tree // See JTMF Spring (May 16-19) on this page for more info. // joshuatreemusicfestival.com

Continued on page 12

Downieville Classic Ta-Hoe Nalu Adventure Sports Week

ADVENTURE

cycling >> Sea Otter Classic – April 11-14 • Monterey // Enjoy a wide range of cycling activities including races, demos, kids’ events, shopping, and more. // seaotterclassic.com

>> Ensenada Bike Fest – May 24-26 • Ensensada, Mexico // Bike racing, music, local beer and wine, under the Baja sunshine. California Enduro Series kick off. // californiaenduroseries.com

>> Adventure Sports Week Tahoe – June 21-30 • Lake Tahoe // Come for the clean air, clear water, scenic single track, and an elevated heart rate. Challenge yourself in one of the many competitive events, catch a live concert by the lake or bring the family out for swim or SUP. // adventuresportsweek.com

>>The Little Big Bike Festival & Skills Clinics – May 25-26 • Truckee // A fun-filled cycling festival with a focus on learning and progression. // truckeebikepark.org/thelittlebig

YOGA

>> Ales and Trails – May 4 • San Rafael // This fundraiser for Access4Bikes offers demos, group rides, skills clinics, vendor booths, live music, kids’ races, and beer. // access4bikes.com/ales

>> Lost & Found Gravel Grinder Festival – June 1 • Lake Davis // Fun for riders, families and friends. Camping, gravel grinding events, kids’ races, live music, food & adult beverage garden. // lostandfoundbikeride.com >> Tahoe Mountain Bike Festival – June 22-23 • Meyers // Participate in the Triple Crown Ride, bike demos, bands, vendors, beer garden and food to kick off the riding season in Tahoe with TAMBA and help support future trail projects. // tahoemtbfestival.com >> Downieville Classic – August 1-4 • Downieville // Race or challenge yourself to ride to the Sierra Crest and back to town. Or just come to enjoy the bike festival for the weekend. Either way, you win. River jump. Live music. Fun! // downievilleclassic.com >> Biketoberfest Marin – October 12 • Fairfax // An annual bike festival with over 70 exhibitors, a handmade bike show, beer, live music, food, group bike rides. // marinbike.org/biketoberfest

>> Wanderlust Squaw Valley – July 18-21 • North Lake Tahoe // Yoga, music, organic food and wine, inspirational speakers, meditation, SUP, hiking, biking, running. // wanderlust.com

Celtic >> Monterey Scottish Games & Celtic Festival – August 3-4 • Monterey // Music, athletic games, whiskey-tasting and more. // montereyscotgames.com

On The Water >> Kern River Festival – April 27-28 • Kernville // Celebrating the sport of kayaking, the paddling community, and the river that provides for it all. // kernfestival.com >> Reno River Festival – May 11-12 • Reno, NV // Experience two days of hardcore leisure and wet and wild fun. // renoriverfestival.com >> Pier360 Beach Festival – June 22-23 • Santa Monica // Celebrating the birthplace of SoCal’s iconic beach culture through competition, awareness, and entertainment. // santamonicapier.org/pier360 >> Ta-Hoe Nalu SUP Festival – August 10-11 • Kings Beach // SUP racing and clinics on beautiful Lake Tahoe. Plus, enjoy a vendor expo, food, drink and more. Presented with Aloha. // tahoenalu.com >> The Jay Race – TBD • Capitola // This ocean paddleboard race in the beautiful waters of the Monterey Bay, and post-race festival is held in memory of Santa Cruz Waterman Jay Moriarity. // facebook.com/ jaymoriarityfoundation

Now Introducing Fusilli Pasta We pity the Fusilli who misses out on this restaurant quality dish!

NO

Artficial Flavors Artficial Colors Artficial Preservatives

12 ASJ — April/May 2019

Growing Wild The burgeoning education model of forest school is reconnecting children with nature Words and photos by Bruce Willey “The best classroom and the richest classroom is roofed only by the sky.” — Margaret McMillan

T

he connection between nature and humans has never been so fraught or frail. With rapid technological wonders vying for our attention spans, the weedy wonders of nature have, for many, fallen by the wayside. And there’s a name for it: naturedeficit disorder.

Nature-deficit disorder has come to define children who spend too much time indoors, dependent on screens and a life shaped by a digitized reality. The titles of best-selling books like Last Child in the Woods and Balanced and Barefoot attest to the growing worry amongst child psychologists and parents alike that attention-deficit disorder, depression, and obesity — to name a few — can be correlated with a disconnection to nature.

Enter the forest school educational concept, where kids do their learning out in the open without four walls to constrict their impulse to be, well, outside. The idea was “invented” in the 1950s in Denmark and quickly spread to Sweden, then throughout Europe where it continues to be popular. Today, there are an estimated 240 forest schools in the US including nearly two-dozen in California.

Forest schools may not be a good fit for every child or for that matter, every parent. Those looking for all day preschool or who have a child that prefers the indoors will only find forest schools to be frustrating.

“Life in modern times moves very quickly. It’s loud both visually and aurally,” says Lia Grippo, Wild Roots Forest School founder and director in Santa Barbara, whose program has been running for 20 years. “We begin to see the effects of it.

We see children struggling to move their bodies, with balance, and self-regulation, all of which are developed with play in the natural environment. A young child’s nervous system needs to be soothed by the sound of the breezes rustling in the trees, the sound of bird calls. They 14 ASJ — April/May 2019

This page, clockwise from top: Circle time in the Eastern Sierra led by Wild Roots teachers Erin Boehme and C.J. Cintas; Leaf play by the pond; Guidebooks carried by the teachers; Outdoor locker room; Aiden Vellejo lost in the imagination of fishing; Boehme with student Matilda Willey. don’t have to tune the world out because the world is not overstimulating and so they remain open.”

I decided to drop in on a forest school, something made eminently easier because I drop off and pick up my daughter from Wild Roots Forest School four days a week. I’ve been doing this, rain or shine, since Matilda was three. Here in the Eastern Sierra, I’ve dropped her off in sidewise blowing snow in winter and picked her up on blistering hot summer days. The forest school mantra has always been, “There’s no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing.”

It’s a little after 9am. A large pine tree is quaking as if by some internally produced wind. Hidden inside the tree’s branches is a parliament of preschoolers and kindergarteners scaling its branches. Had this been an inside institution a playground

attendant would surely be bellowing at the children to come down. But here the teachers educate the children to be mindful about the hazards even as they pay extra close attention to the arboreal action taking place.

Besides learning which branches will hold their weight, the kids are blissfully unaware that they are acquiring important skills such as resilience, perseverance, and grit, not to mention the multisensory kinesthetic and tactile skills that will help them navigate a multi-faceted world both within and outside nature.

These skills learned early on have been shown to carry into the classroom and later, into adult life.

Despite the wild, self-guided learning style there are a lot of civilizing nudges at work. After an hour of exploratory, undirected play, it’s time for circle. When a cold “Brother Wind” blows the

Top to bottom: Circle time; climbing the willows.

kids gather around a fire they helped start. They muster in a circle, singing a song to the dear earth, the dear sun, the dear beasts and birds. Hot tea and healthy snacks are served. Within the circle the children foster social skills, self-regulation, and empathy for each other. It is without a doubt a circle of some of the most polite little human beings you’ll ever witness.

Everything shared is passed to each other with “please” and “thank you.”

Leading the circle is Erin Boehme, her waist decked in the hand-sewn cloth tool belt most Wild Roots teachers wear that contains the tools of the trade: first-aid kit, knife, notebook, small saw, string, sandpaper, and a field guide to wildflowers or birds.

“As forest school teachers we have the challenge to combine at least two professions into one,” Boehme says.

“Not only do we focus on early childhood education and our deep understanding of child development, but work to become practiced and strong naturalists as well as nature connected. In doing both of those things we have to learn how to combine them and make a classroom that’s appropriate for the children.”

Circle time over, the children spread out, some painting masterpieces worthy of the best abstract painters alive or dead, some strike it rich mining for giant gold nuggets in the mud, some fly into the sky to chase a raven, some fight a forest fire that appears to have spread in the empty field, halted only by an ocean pond with dolphins and sharks leaping out of the muddy water. If a conflict arises, teachers intervene not with time-outs or threats, but with ideas on how the conflict can be resolved. After all, as we all find out eventually, friendship and love offers the same perils as climbing a tree in a windstorm or lighting a fire to

PROUD SPONSORS OF

make stick bread.

“When something may upset them,” says C.J. Cintas, Wild Roots kindergarten teacher, “or may cause them to have an outburst, they’re allowed to move away from that group place, that high energy place, and calm themselves and selfregulate that maybe four walls wouldn’t allow.”

With a convincing coyote howl from Boehme and Cintas, lunchtime is announced. The children gather in a circle again singing a song of thanks — “so eat with thanksgiving / this food was once living” — over a blanket spread on the ground. Gratitude for the earth, for all living things, for life itself, is big in Wild Roots. But so is honoring the dead, whether it be the found dead quail that gets a proper burial or the ancestors who lived in this land before us.

Watching the children eat their lunch in community with each other, under the wide-open sky, one is left with the impression that these particular human beings will be forever invested in their authentic relationships with the natural world, its creatures, plants, and elements.

But most importantly, they have bonded with diversity, challenge, and healthy risk taking. They have seen themselves reflected in the world and they know they belong.

“Modern humans are not often given the story of their belonging to this earth,” Boehme says. “Instead they are told we are the cause of climate change, pollution, and violence. A nature-connected child has the chance to become an adult who can face these stories with the will to actively change the outcome, because what lives inside them is how phenomenal our natural world really is. After all it’s where they first fell in love with life.”

It has been another good day at school.

I can tell by how much dirt clings to my daughter’s clothes and skin, by how many sticks she’s brought home along with a painted rock or two. As I type this inside, I can hear her out in the backyard singing, “We are adventurers, going down the trail. We are adventurers, faster than a snail. We always stick together, we help each other out. We always look for new things whenever we’re about.”

Time, then, to step away from the computer and join her, this keeper of the wild flame. www. advent ur espor t sjour nal. com

15

Big Flow

This is a banner year for California whitewater

By Barry and Kennedy Kruse

B

elieve or not, there might just be more than 300 individual, wholly runnable sections of whitewater in the state; some of them magazine-cover, pool-drop classics the likes of which are found in few places anywhere in the world. Trevor Croft of Rafting Magazine says, “California is a unique place for rafters to connect with each other and the world around them. So many rivers exist to suit anyone’s skills that you can find the best guides in the world paddling alongside beginner boaters. It creates an incredible culture and opportunity to learn in our corner of the rafting world. If you are a first timer just learning what rafting is all about, there is no better place to experience an adventure sport that truly anyone can enjoy than right here in California.”

Throughout California’s mountain ranges – the Southern Cascades, the Coast, and especially in the Sierra – a rare combination of ideal terrain results in desirable river topography.

The Sierra in particular delivers rivers with a universal profile; streams flow east to west, they’re class V at the higher elevations, fall in difficulty about every twenty miles, and then gradually mellow to class I in the Central Valley. These multiple factors create an almost unmatched catalogue of rivers for every type of paddler.

And this season, unlike many recent drought years, pretty much everything will be running. If you are thinking about planning a trip, this is the best year in a long time. Here are some California rivers to consider, broken down by difficulty.

EASIEST First-timers – especially in a high water year – ought to consider hiring a guide service and running “class III” on the international scale of I-VI. Class III is great for novices, but still serious enough that you’ll want to go with professionals. Your outfitter will rent you, or include in the price of the trip, a wetsuit, spray jacket, and personal safety gear, and provide you with an excellent guide.

// The South Fork of the American River has two

sections of class III whitewater over 21 miles from Chili Bar – near Placerville – to Folsom Lake. The South Fork is famous for an abundance of great rapids. This river runs yearround, and even after spring flows subside, dam releases deliver whitewater all summer.

The gnarlier, more notable rapid names here are Meatgrinder, Troublemaker and Satan’s Cesspool. This is one of the best family trips in the state.

I

Big Water

(800)861-6553

www.mtnriver.com 16 ASJ — April/May 2019

Opposite page, main image: A Sierra Mac crew on the pinnacle of American commercial rafting: Cherry Creek / Upper Tuolomne near Yosemite (Sierra Mac River Trips). Opposite page, small image: River runners on the South Fork American (River Runners).

This page, top to bottom: The Kings River will be running through August this year (Zephyr Whitewater Expeditions); Class IV Merced River (Gary Pearl / courtesy of OARS).

// The Kings River

nearer Southern California and Sequoia Kings National Park is one of the largest-volume rivers run in the state. It flows clear and cold from the High Sierra, unfettered by dams in its upper reaches. That means it’s usually only running in the spring. This year, though, it’ll certainly be running into August, when you’ll appreciate cooling down with a splash. And there’s a lot of that! This is a terrific family trip over ten miles with fewer rocks, but big smashing holes and satisfying drops like Banzai and Fang Tooth. Outfitters run one and two-day trips on the section, and you’d enjoy combining it with a visit to the nearby national park.

MORE CHALLENGING

YOSEMITE

whitewater rafting!

mild to wild!

Tuolumne, Cherry Creek/Upper Tuolumne & Merced Rivers

Every bit of California whitewater will be fun to run this year, but hearty beginners and experienced paddlers will enjoy the step up to class IV whitewater.

It’s a thrill, but won’t be terrifying for athletic newcomers. Still, you’ll want an experienced guide with excellent equipment to ensure you’re having fun and making memories.

SIERRAMAC.COM (209) 591-8027 591-8027 SIERRAMAC.COM • (209)

// The Kern River

near Bakersfield has the most diverse set of whitewater offerings of any single river in California. It’s a reasonable drive from SoCal and provides great adventure experiences for all kinds of paddlers. In drier years and higher years like 2019 flows might limit what’s available when too high or too low. But there’s nearly always something going – from class IV for fit, adventurous beginners, to some of California’s best, multi-day class IV/V trips. It’ll all be pumping this season.

// The Kaweah

is slightly closer to LA than to the Bay Area – just east of Visalia. But it’s well worth the drive from either. Like the Kings, it’s an undammed, purely snowmelt-fed stream.

The Kaweah is a nearly-ideal class IV trip in a wonderful, quiet part of the state with about a dozen sizable rapids over ten miles.

It will likely run this year through July.

// The Merced is fed by Yosemite Valley, and is a class IV spring classic. It’s punchy, splashy fun. And you’ll nearly forget that Highway 140 is right alongside for most of the way. “Ned’s Gulch” gets any paddler’s heart pumping.

There’s easy, spring access to this section, and you can run a day trip there and still enjoy the calmer waters in Yosemite Valley if you can get in.

//

The Tuolumne also originates in Yosemite – but flows from the high meadows in the park instead of out of the Valley. “The T” is higher-brow mid-Sierra whitewater. At big flows, the 18 miles can be easily run in a day. But it’s best savored more slowly as the ultimate California multi-day trip. The Rockies have classic, week and multi-week trips. The Tuolumne, though, delivers a rush of a class IV experience for Californians who have to get back to work on Monday. The Tuolumne runs high in the spring with snowmelt, and generally all summer long from reservoirs and daily dam releases.

As temperatures climb so do adrenaline levels on California’s favorite whitewater rivers...

// The North Fork American is one of the American

River triplets. And in the spring, it’s our favorite. This run only happens via national spring runoff, but this year, it will surely be running into June. The common section, called Chamberlain Falls is solid class IV, with moves that hint at the feeling of a class V run. Bogus Thunder and Staircase are two of the marquee, memorable drops here. Just 40 minutes east of Sacramento near Auburn on Interstate 80, it makes for a superlative day trip with one of the several excellent outfitters that run this section. www. advent ur espor t sjour nal. com

17

RAFTING OUTFITTERS

ASJ partners are listed below in bold and red. Please support our partners.

This page, left to right: “Freight Train” on the class V Cal Salmon (Courtesy of Momentum River Expeditions); Class V Cherry Creek/Tuolumne near Yosemite (Courtesy of Sierra Mac River Trips).

MOST CHALLENGING In California the most challenging guided whitewater is typified by a steep gradient and pushy hydraulics flowing through mazes of vehicle-sized granite boulders requiring expert navigation and maneuvering.

// The Cal Salmon, not to be confused with a famous Idaho river named

for the same fish – is one of the best trips in California. The drive to get to far, far Northern California means you’re committed. But seriously, it’s worth it. You’ll likely stay for a few days to catch world-class, heavy hydraulics and big drops like Cascade and Freight Train. Sometimes an outfitter will steal a day with you on a second river like the Scott – another esoteric class V gem. The place is remote, and with that you get natural beauty and verdant forests not seen in many of the southern rivers in the state.

// The Forks of the Kern starts with a unique twist: a three-mile

hike with mules carrying all the gear. Without hyperbole, this trip is amazing. These 22 miles of hydraulic snowmelt might comprise the best class V multi-day trip in America.

Serious trips like this need an optimal flow window; high water this year means it will probably run only in August.

Rafting near Yosemite and Sequoia on the Merced and Kings rivers.

1/2 day to 2 day trips.

Group & family discounts.

Offering the best of California’s Rivers for over 45 years!

zrafting.com • 800-431-3636

18 ASJ — April/May 2019

// Cherry Creek, Upper Tuolumne might be double-

black diamond whitewater, and it’s the hardest single day of commercial rafting in North America. Fortunately, you’ll have the best guides in the business. Paddlers with ambitions to run Cherry Creek on the Upper Tuolumne will have to pass a fitness and swimming test the morning of the trip. As with The Forks, Cherry Creek requires a sweet spot flow, and it probably won’t run this year until August. But that’ll give you time to work up to it with the rest of these fantastic California trips.

Barry Kruse began guiding class V California rivers more than 30 years ago.

He’s the author of the forthcoming book Leading Steep: Lessons in Leadership from the World’s Great Adventure Guides.

Kennedy Kruse, his daughter, is a solid class III guide at age 15.

All-Outdoors Whitewater Rafting • aorafting.com // American Whitewater Expeditions • americanwhitewater. com // ARTA River Trips • arta.org // Beyond Limits Adventures • rivertrip. com // Bigfoot Rafting • bigfootrafting. com // Cache Canyon River Trips • cachecanyon.com // Current Adventures • currentadventures.com // Earth Trek Expeditions • earthtrekexpeditions.com // ECHO • echotrips.com //Environmental Traveling Companions • etctrips.org // I.R.I.E. Rafting Company • raftirie.com // Kern River Outfitters • kernrafting.com // Kings River Expeditions • kingsriver.com // Living Waters Recreation • livingwatersrec. com // Mariah Wilderness Expeditions • mariahrafting.com // Momentum River Expeditions • momentumriverexpeditions. com // Mother Lode River Center • malode.com // Mountain & River Adventures • mtnriver.com // Mountain Descents • mountaindescents.com // O.A.R.S. (Outdoor Adventure River Specialists) • oars.com // Raft California • raftcalifornia.com // Redwoods and Rivers • redwoods-rivers.com // River Runners • riverrunnersusa.com // Rubicon Adventures • rubiconadventures.com // Sierra Mac River Trips • sierramac.com // Sierra South Mountain Sports • sierrasouth. com // Tributary Whitewater Tours • whitewatertours.com // Trinity River Rafting • trinityriverrafting.com //Whitewater Voyages • whitewatervoyages.com // WET River Trips • raftwet.com // Whitewater Connection • whitewaterconnection. com // Whitewater Excitement • whitewaterexcitement.com // Zephyr Whitewater Expeditions • zrafting.com

EPiC: Environmental Partnership Campaign

California Bicycle Coalition Making it safer and easier to live the bike lifestyle

By Leonie Sherman

If you’ve enjoyed a ride on a bike path, along a designated bikeway or in an urban bike lane somewhere in the Golden State, chances are the California Bicycle Coalition (CalBike) had something to do with getting it there. CalBike, headquartered in Oakland, was founded in 1994 to bring together the growing number of local bicycle organizations to fight for bikes at the state level. In practice that means they advocate in the state capitol and across the state for policy changes that make it easier for all Californians to lead healthier, more joyful lives by riding bikes safely in their communities.

“W

hat communities really need to be bike friendly is a network of streets that connect destinations in a community with safe and attractive bikeways that don’t have stress from auto traffic,” says CalBike’s executive director Dave Snyder. “Creating those involves local decisions. They’re real estate battles. Folks are fighting for a place on the street that’s almost always space that’s been dedicated to cars, either traffic or parked.” Those are the battles Snyder used to fight as founder and executive director of the San Francisco Bicycle Coalition. Those are not the battles that CalBike fights.

“Our job is to create the environment where local advocates and agencies can be more successful,” explains Snyder. “We work to make money available to create bike lanes, we work to change rules about traffic analysis so safety is more important than auto speed, and we work so that when folks repave a street, they have to do safety improvements for non-auto users.”

In other words, CalBike’s seven dedicated staff members spend a lot of time sending emails, meeting policy makers and staring at computer screens. The nuts and bolts of that work often involve minute changes to obscure legislation. But those changes reduce carbon emissions and impact significant land use decisions.

For example, until recently when a developer planned to put in a new office building or another large structure, the required Environmental Impact Report (EIR) analyzed the effect on congestion in nearby intersections. A proposal for infill construction in the city center will always impact traffic congestion, even if the location is accessible by train, bus or bike. The impact on congestion would effectively torpedo the project. On the other hand, a project on the edge of the suburbs, with very little local traffic to interrupt, would have a minimal impact on congestion, so it could pass an EIR. This ended up incentivizing construction that added to overall carbon emissions.

20 ASJ — April/May 2019

“Bike projects got caught up in all that,” says Snyder with a sigh. “Environmental regulations put such importance on not causing congestion that if you took out a car lane to put in a bike lane and that slowed down traffic even by a few seconds, that would be a negative significant impact that required additional study.” The same law exempted construction of additional car lanes from environmental review. “So you could take out a bike lane to put in a car lane, but if you took out a car lane to build a bike lane it triggered an EIR. The old rules had perverse incentives against putting in bike lanes and infill development.”

CalBike was among the strongest advocates for creating new rules with the aim of measuring a project’s impact on Vehicle Miles Traveled, not Level of Service. The passage of SB 743 three years ago did just that. Now, instead of an EIR asking “Does this project increase traffic congestion?” it has to ask “Does this project increase the vehicle miles traveled overall?” This might look like legislation that changed a three letter acronym, but when finalized this year it will result in communities with less auto traffic.

CalBike’s holistic policy-level approach means they aim high. Their Complete Streets Campaign hopes to change the way the California Department of Transportation approaches repaving, making it easier to build new bike lanes. Right now, internal policy requires Caltrans to consider bike lanes whenever they repave or rebuild a highway. “In practice that means a Caltrans Director will say they’ve considered a bike lane, but they will prioritize fast moving car traffic over bike safety, even against the desires of the local residents or government,” explains Snyder.

CalBike introduced SB 127 in January to remedy that situation. “Instead of requiring Caltrans to consider the addition of new bike lanes, this bill will require them to conclude that the addition of new bike lanes is a good idea,” explains Snyder. The resolution is not strictly

binding — sometimes a bike lane is not appropriate, for example if Caltrans is repaving a country lane with no destinations and very little traffic, or a major artery with a side street that makes for more pleasant bike commuting. But if SB 127 passes, in order for Caltrans to exempt themselves from construction of a new bike lane they will be required to hold a hearing. “This bill will force Caltrans to do the right thing, and if the right thing is debatable, it forces that debate to take place. If they don’t want to build a bike lane they have to hold a community meeting and explain why.” CalBike hopes this will give local governments traction to push for safety improvements that might otherwise be out of reach.

Any successful lobbying effort requires money. Of course CalBike solicits their 30,000 members, and soon you’ll be able to purchase a Bike for a Healthy California plate that CalBike anticipates will raise millions to make communities more bike friendly (see Ear to the Ground on page nine for more information on this project).

But the fundraiser they’re most proud of is an annual Dream Ride. For $2,750, riders get five days of gorgeous scenery, great company, high-quality accommodations

Opposite page, top to bottom: California Bicycle Coalition members spend much of their time at the California state capitol lobbying for better, safer streets for all of us (Allan Crawford); A well-marked bike lane keeps cyclists safe (California Bicycle Coalition). This page, top to bottom: 2018 Dream Ride participants (Allan Crawford); Stunning views of the southern California coastline as 2018 Dream Ride riders pedal through Dockweiler State Beach (Allan Crawford); Dave Snyder, Executive Director of the California Bicycle Coalition (Allan Crawford); Kids like these will be able to bike safely to school if California Bicycle Coalition wins its Complete Streets Campaign (California Bicycle Coalition).

and catered meals, plus a water bottle and ride jersey. “We work closely with local advocacy groups in the area; a lot of times they will sponsor a happy hour for us, or we will stop in to a local bike coalition.

We get to meet locals, they get to show off what they’re doing in the community, everyone gets to share their love of bikes, it’s just such a good time,” gushes ride director Debbie Brubaker.

She started the ride six years ago with about 15 participants and it’s grown every year. Last year they had 50 riders and she expects about 60 this year. Most of the annual Dream Rides have been along the coast south of San Luis Obispo, but this year’s 290-mile ride will start at Folsom.

The group will ride bike paths along the American River all the way to downtown Sacramento, follow quiet country roads in Napa’s wine country, go through redwood forests, along Tomales Bay and end in San Francisco. Thanks to amazing farm-to-

fork meals, past participants claim they gain weight while riding 60+ miles a day.

Two folks have come back every year since the beginning. “We are the only organization in the country I know of that sponsors bike rides to raise money for better bicycling,” says Brubaker with obvious pride.

CalBike impacts bicycle safety statewide, but they know that real change begins at home with your daily decisions.

“Mostly, I just want people to know that riding a bike in traffic is safer than it looks and they should give it a try,” says Snyder, who gets from his home in Oakland to Sacramento using a bicycle and the Capitol Corridor train. “Relying on your bike for transportation is so empowering. It’s so good I do it even in the rain and wind. It’s like a natural anti-depressant that you can take every single day.” www. advent ur espor t sjour nal. com

27

Rolling Lonesome Nevada’s Hwy 50

by Bike

By Leonie Sherman

The first time I drove Highway 50 through Nevada was in January almost a decade ago. The mercury hovered at 18 below. I think we saw four other cars in seven hours. We stopped to gawk at hundred mile vistas of open rangeland and snow-capped peaks without even bothering to pull over. The only sound was from our humming car and wind whistling through our down parkas. We crossed 12 mountain ranges, rising like rocky waves from an ocean of sage. I knew I had to bike it. A lonely road is a bike-friendly road.

I

n 1986, Life magazine and the American Automobile Association called Nevada’s 408 miles of Highway 50—the road stretches almost 3,000 miles from Sacramento to Ocean City, Maryland—“The Loneliest Road in America.” “It’s totally empty,” the magazine quoted an unnamed AAA counselor as saying.

“We don’t recommend it. We warn all motorists not to drive there unless they’re confident of their survival skills.”

Nevada seized the moniker with pride. Though empty of people, this desolate stretch of highway boasts petroglyphs, historic towns, state parks and alpine lakes. They highly recommend an auto tour though few foolhardy souls attempt to bike it.

For an epic bike tour through Nevada on Highway 50, decent weather and a car shuttle are more important than confidence in your survival skills. Summer temperatures can soar over a hundred and a deep breath in January will freeze your nostrils shut, but spring and autumn provide comfortable temperatures and clear skies. I chose April for my odyssey. Nevada has very little public transit outside a few urban centers. Highway 50 is stunning but I didn’t want to bike it twice, so I convinced a generous unemployed friend to drop me off in Austin, Nevada, and pick me up four days later in Great Basin National Park.

The next day I fell into a hypnotic rhythm; pedaling to a summit, winding amid pinyon and junipers, dropping into a basin, rolling towards the next mountain range on the horizon. As I crawled towards Little Antelope Summit, my third pass of the day, I began to wonder about the consequences of a breakdown in such desolation.

22 ASJ — April/May 2019

Austin is located about halfway through Nevada, on the western slope of the Toiyabe Mountains, 6,000 feet above sea level. Originally inhabited by Western Shoshone, the city was mapped out in 1862. According to legend, a Pony Express horse kicked over a rock, the rider noticed a flash of silver, and by 1863, 10,000 people were mining for ore in the area. In 1864, the city raised $250,000 for Civil War veterans by repeatedly auctioning a single sack of flour.

Less than 20 years later the town was disincorporated.

Nowadays it’s a living ghost town, home to fewer than 200 people. Hanging over the front of the town’s lone antique store was a ten foot tarp with “Make America Great Again!” scrawled on the flapping plastic. We kept driving.

My friend dropped me at Hickison Summit, 24 miles east of Austin. We explored some local petroglyphs in the weak spring sunshine. Then we unloaded my gear and hugged good-bye. Her car engine faded into wind and all that was left beneath that wide open sky was my fully loaded bicycle, the sagebrush and I. Two thin lanes of asphalt bisected the northernmost desert in the world.

The Great Basin desert stretches 570 miles from eastern California to Colorado, and 880 miles from Washington to Arizona. Its heart lies in Nevada. It’s a cold place defined by a series of undrained basins, punctuated by northsouth trending mountains. There are over 100 major basins in 210,000 square miles of desert; mountains are always within view. The first of these ranges, the White Mountains, rise over 14,000 feet above sea level. Utah’s Wasatch Mountains define its eastern edge. Biking them reveals each range to be a rocky island in a sagebrush sea, hosting specially adapted plants and animals evolving in isolation.

I coasted around a gentle curve, dropped a couple of hundred feet in elevation and entered lonesome Monitor Valley, 6,000 feet above sea level. Highway 50 traces an unbroken straight line for over a dozen miles through the basin before climbing to a gash between canyon walls and dropping into Eureka, population 610. A spiffy town with an old remodeled opera house and a historic court house

This page, top to bottom: Cycling past the Snake Range in eastern Nevada (Jynx McTavish); Gazing towards the Eagan Range outside Cave Lake State Park (Leonie Sherman); Historic Eureka Opera House (Leonie Sherman). Opposite page, clockwise from top: Road winding away down Conners Pass (Leonie Sherman); Petroglyphs near Hickison Summit (Leonie Sherman); Snowcapped peaks, sagebrush and a fully loaded bike (Leonie Sherman). still in operation, my main interest was in my hotel’s hot tub. I knew the next two nights would feature windraked campgrounds at around 7,000 feet in elevation, so I soaked accordingly.

The next day I fell into a hypnotic rhythm; pedaling to a summit, winding amid pinyon and junipers, dropping into a basin, rolling towards the next mountain range on the horizon. As I crawled towards Little Antelope Summit, my third pass of the day, I began to wonder about the

consequences of a breakdown in such desolation. So I stuck my thumb out in a half-hearted attempt at hitch-hiking as I biked towards the rocky gap. The third car that passed pulled over; an old pickup with a copy of The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari on the dashboard. I explained my experiment to the driver and we had a good laugh. I gratefully accepted a ride a mile and a half to the top.

I camped at Ilipah State Recreation Area that evening, on the eastern edge of the White Pine Range. Each campsite featured a sturdy wind break. The next day brought me to Robinson Summit, just shy of 8,000 feet in elevation, before dropping into the sprawling neon signs and gas stations of Ely, population 4,000, the only town between me and Utah. I stopped for Mexican food before rolling into the sagestudded wildlands of eastern Nevada.

That night I pitched a tent at Cave Lake State Park, on the shore of a glittering alpine mirror. I woke to frost on my tent and ice in my water bottle.

I’d traversed less than half of the continent’s largest desert when my friend picked me up. I was grateful for conversation and excited to explore the limestone caves of Nevada’s only national park, but wistful about returning to California. The Loneliest Road in America is raw and harsh, an oasis of untamed wilderness right next door to the most populated state in the country. I’ll always carry a piece of Nevada’s wild wonder in my heart.

For adventurous mountain bikers traveling between California and Utah along Nevada’s Hwy 50, take on the full challenge of hitting all five towns along “The Loneliest Road in America”. Start your experience in Carson City in the state capital on the stunning Tahoe Rim Trail before continuing the journey to Austin, Kingston, Ely, before ending in Caliente. Each town has a great network of mountain biking trails. For more info go to VisitCarsonCity.com/Hwy50

OATBRAN: ONE AWESOME TOUR BIKE RIDE ACROSS NEVADA If you want to bike Highway 50 without the hassle of finding a car shuttle or hauling gear, Bike The West has you covered. From September 22-28 2019, BTW will host its 28th annual OATBRAN — One Awesome Tour Bike Ride Across Nevada.

Beginning on the shores of Lake Tahoe and ending at the Utah border, this ride traverses all the beauty and history of Highway 50 in comfort and style. BTW takes care of planning each night’s accommodation, food and rest stops, so you can focus on the scenery and great company. A SAG wagon hauls gear, plus the occasional rider and bike.

On the final day you and your gear catch a ride back to where you started. Every participant gets an OATBRAN ride jersey, water bottle and goodie bag; everyone who completes the ride gets an “I Survived OATBRAN” t-shirt.

This is a fully supported ride but it requires training. Between the California and Utah borders, Highway 50 stretches over 400 miles and climbs almost 17,000 feet. OATBRAN days average 85 miles but some are over 100 miles, and day two involves 4,700 feet of climbing.

When riders treat OATBRAN as the culmination of a year-long training effort the distances and elevation lose significance, replaced by the wonder of Nevada’s spectacular desolate scenery.

Learn more at bikethewest.com. www. advent ur espor t sjour nal. com

23

MR TOADs The Story of a Trail Words by Deanna Kerr

There is a trail in the Sierra Nevada that winds its way through mountainous areas on the southern shore of Lake Tahoe. Just over five miles long, the narrow trail meanders through some beautiful terrain with rocks the size of grizzlies and forests of pine trees with crooked postures. It rambles through the habitat of goshawk and spotted owls near Saxon Creek. During the latter part of the 19th century, cattle grazed in that area and used the 5.2-mile path to access the creek for drinking water. Over time it became known as the Saxon Creek Trail.

P

arts of the trail fell out of use in the first half of the 20th century because cattle operations decreased, and the needs and preferences of the locals changed. People started using the mountain trails on the southern shore of Lake Tahoe for recreation rather than ranching. The rugged 5.2-mile stretch near Saxon Creek was considered too rough and difficult for a mere walk in the woods, and few hikers and explorers used it. As a result, it began to blend into the natural landscape.

In 1979, everything changed when Gary Bell and Gene St. Dennis began riding bicycles along Tahoe’s backcountry trails. Bell and St. Dennis were trying to discover connections between pieces of underdeveloped paths on which they could ride their bikes. In researching this article for ASJ, I caught up with Bell in South Lake Tahoe.

He explained that when they discovered the 5.2-mile Saxon Creek Trail, “It was nothing but a little game trail that took some work to ride down it. But we made it.” St. Dennis nicknamed the 5.2-mile trail Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride, after the Disneyland ride by the same name. It was the first time bikes were ridden on the Saxon Creek Trail. Mountain biking, as an official outdoor sport, was still in its infancy.

The re-naming of the trail (usually shortened to “Mr. Toads”), marked a pivotal time in the trail’s history. It was the beginning of a battle over how Mr. Toads and other 24 ASJ — April/May 2019

trails on the southern shore of Lake Tahoe ought to be enjoyed. Some hikers did not like sharing trails with mountain bikers. While they considered a forest trail to be a quiet place, mountain bikers were enticed by the trail’s fast and rugged challenges. Mountain bikers pedaled hard and enjoyed the challenges of riding over gnarled tree roots and through complicated rock gardens. Some riders raced past without warning, causing a few hikers to complain. The mountain bikers pointed out that the trail was pretty much unused until Bell and St. Dennis revived it, but a few vocal hikers felt that nature should be enjoyed a certain way and bikes don’t belong on dirt trails.

The Forest Service, whose job it is to maintain trails and their environs, sided with the hikers in the 1980s.

Mountain biking was new, and from the Forest Service’s standpoint, relatively uncommon. There weren’t many people who rode bikes in the mountains and some considered mountain bikers a nuisance. Hikers said that bicycles put a lot of wear and tear on the trails, while bikers pointed out that horses have a larger impact and horse packing is allowed in Wilderness areas. The Forest Service thought it easier to designate the region on the southern shore of Tahoe as a Wilderness area—a designation that excluded mountain bike access.

This page, top to bottom: Pro skier Cody Townsend keeping agile in the off season on the iconic Toads rock garden (Ben Fish); Gary Bell on his original 1979 Lawwill Pro Cruiser mountain bike. Imagine riding this bike down a primitive Mr. Toads Trail nearly 40 years ago (Ben Fish); Repack riders from the early days of mountain biking, with Joe Breeze on the far left next to Wende Cragg and Gary Bell (Greg Westergaard). Opposite page, clockwise from top left: Volunteers on a recent TAMBA trail build day. (Ben Fish); Test riding during a recent TAMBA trail build day (Dave Clock); Staging for a TAMBA trail build day (Ben Fish).

What the Forest Service was not expecting was the growing popularity of offroad bicycle riding in California. Bike races on Mt. Tamalpais, in Marin County, were attracting more riders each year.

What the Forest Service was not expecting was the growing popularity of off-road bicycle riding in California.

Bike races on Mt. Tamalpais, in Marin County, were attracting more riders each year. Participants modified paperboy bicycles to withstand the rigors of speeding down rugged dirt terrain. The media began covering these “Repack races” in 1978 and news spread about a new type of bike riding called mountain biking.

According to Joe Breeze, one of the founders of the Marin Museum of Bicycling – the home of the Mountain Bike Hall of Fame – “Repack was the very crucible of mountain biking, where the sport was born, and competition there absolutely improved the breed.”

Bell and his friends rode these mountain bikes on Mr. Toads and other Tahoe trails. He knew the sport of mountain biking was attracting people. He also knew the

sleep in the dirt, don’t sit in it

simple, innovative, ridiculously comfortable

NEW MICA BASIN AND SKYLINE CHAIR AND STOOL FEATURING PATENTED HUB-LESS FRAMES, WIDE AND STABLE SEATS AND SIMPLE SETUP AND BREAKDOWN

The Mother of Comfort · bigagnes.com

Camping above Montezuma Basin on the Continental Divide Trail, Colorado.

Noah Wetzel

www. advent ur espor t sjour nal. com

25

The Forest Service soon changed its stance toward mountain bikers. They began to recognize TAMBA as a resource group—a group who could be called upon to help with trail maintenance and Tahoe beautification.

Forest Service was serious about blocking trail access to mountain bikers, so he decided to take action. That year Bell helped form the Tahoe Area Mountain Biking Association, now commonly known by the acronym TAMBA. “If we were going to prevent the loss of trails, we needed to get people involved,” said Bell.

Early TAMBA leaders wrote articles and passed out fliers to local businesses to get the Forest Service to change Mr. Toads proposed designation as a Wilderness trail. They organized work parties where bikers brought shovels and

picks to Mr. Toads, and other trails in the Tahoe region, to conduct trail maintenance. Membership rose to 1,200 people at a time when there was no Internet or social media. What TAMBA successfully demonstrated was that mountain biking was not only gaining in popularity, but that it was also a legitimate use of almost any trail in the South Tahoe region.

The Forest Service soon changed its stance toward mountain bikers. They began to recognize TAMBA as a resource group—a group who could be called upon to

This page, left to bottom: Riders on a section of the Tahoe Rim Trail during the annual TAMBA Rose to Toads ride (Ben Fish); Paul Tindal wrenching bikes at a rest stop on the Rose to Toads ride (Ben Fish). Opposite page, clockwise from top: Ben Fish rides an old section of trail with a newly built rock trail tread.

As the dirt trail erodes, rocks are used to fill in the ruts to “Keep Toads Wild” (Amy Fish); Better than an amusement park ride, Max Fish navigates through big boulders during the Tahoe Mountain Bike Festival (Ben Fish); All smiles for now, 25 miles into the annual Rose to Toads ride (Ben Fish).

help with trail maintenance and Tahoe beautification.

Budgets were tight, but mountain biking volunteers made it possible to maintain the character of Tahoe’s world-class trail system.

Eventually the Forest Service put a stop to its plans to designate the mountains on the southern shore of Lake Tahoe a Wilderness area. As a result, Mr. Toads remained accessible for mountain biking usage and turned into a popular destination for bikers and hikers alike.

Mr. Toads continues to change and evolve, and mountain bikers still play a key role in preserving the characteristic of its natural environment. TAMBA’s volunteers haul rocks to fortify spots in the trail where ruts form. They remove

DON’T MISS AN ISSUE –

one year

Subscribe to Adventure Sports Journal PRINT VS. DIGITAL / GEAR WE LOVE / EVENT PROFILES / CALENDAR

six issues $20

EARN YOUR BEER / GEAR WE LOVE / EVENT PROFILES / CALENDAR

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2018 ISSUE #104

APRIL / MAY 2019 ISSUE #108

Tahoe Trails

YURI

hauswald gravel grinder

A SHORT HISTORY

RIDING THE

REDWOODS FOR THE LOVE OF CLIMBING seth zaharias CLIMBING INJURY PREVENTION

OUTRIGGER GOLD AT AGE 76 barbara leites

FESTIVAL GUIDE BIKE TOURING HWY 50

CHANNEL ISLANDS RESTORATION

BIG WATER

RAFTING PRIMER

CALIFORNIA BICYCLE COALITION FOREST SCHOOLS

Mail a check for $20 to PO Box 35, Santa Cruz, CA 95063 along with subscriber name & address, or order online at

adventuresportsjournal.com/subscribe

26 ASJ — April/May 2019

LIT logs to prevent riders from going around them, creating unwanted paths. TAMBA volunteers re-route certain spots to protect the water quality of Saxon Creek and the habitat of endangered animals such as the spotted owl and goshawks.

Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride is now a key location where funds are raised to maintain Tahoe’s trail system at large. The mountain biking fundraising event, Rose to Toads, attracts over 200 riders every year and has raised thousands of dollars for trail maintenance and development.

According to Ben Fish, TAMBA’s current president and one of the organizers of Rose to Toads, “We help supplement Forest Service trail crews because they are

running out of money.”

Mr. Toads continues to evolve and change. The changes it now experiences are no longer the result of cattle grazing activities or the whims of Mother Nature.

Rather, they are largely influenced by the needs and preferences of mountain bikers, hikers, and the recreational community at large. We can only speculate what types of changes future user groups will make.

Perhaps the story of Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride will serve as an illustration of how people can successfully come together to help preserve and maintain important trail systems that give happiness to so many and inspire future generations of public lands volunteers.

Quality night riding systems for cyclists and outdoor enthusiasts. Now through May 31 we are offering15% savings. Use code seaotter15 @ www.zodiac-lights.com

MOUNTAIN BIKE TRAIL ADVOCACY GROUPS BY REGION • Auburn – Folsom Auburn Trail Riders Action Coalition (FATRAC) fatrac.org

• Nevada City – Bicyclists Of Nevada County (BONC) bonc.org

• Downieville – Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship (SBTS) sierratrails.org

• Orange County – Share Mountain Bike Club sharemtb.com

• East Bay Area – Bicycle Trails Council Of The East Bay (BTCEB) btceb.org

• Pasadena – Mount Wilson Bicycling Association (MWBA) mwba.org

• Forest City – Forest Trails Alliance (FTA) foresttrailsalliance.org

• Reno – Biggest Little Trail Stewardship bltsnv.org

• Kern County – Southern Sierra Fat Tire Association (SSFTA) ridessfta.com

• San Diego – San Diego Mountain Biking Association (SDMBA) sdmba.com

• Lake Tahoe – Tahoe Area Mountain Bike • San Luis Obispo – Central Coast Concerned Association (TAMBA) mountainbiketahoe.org Mountain Bikers (CCCMB) cccmb.org • Los Angeles – Concerned Off-Road • Santa Clara & San Mateo — Silicon Valley Bicyclist Association (CORBA) corbamtb.com Mountain Bikers svmtb.org • Marin County – Access4Bikes access4bikes.com

• Santa Barbara – Santa Barbara Mountain Bike Trail Volunteers (SBMTV) sbmtv.org

• Marin County – Marin County Bicycle Coalition (MCBC) marinbike.org

• Santa Cruz – Mountain Bikers Of Santa Cruz (MBOSC) mbosc.org

• Mendocino County – Ukiah Valley Trail Group (UVTG) mendotrails.org

• Sonoma County – Sonoma County Trails Council (SCTC) sonomatrails.org

• Monterey – Monterey Off Road Cycling Association (MORCA) morcamtb.org

• Tehachapi – Tehachapi Mountain Trails Association (TMTA) tehachapitrails.com www. advent ur espor t sjour nal. com

27

EARN YOUR BEER Snowshoeing June Lake

By James Murren

I

more than just a climbing gym

Yoga drop-ins welcome Climbing Weight Room Cardio Deck go online or come by to check out this fantastic gym

831.454.9254

104 Bronson St. #12 Santa Cruz

www.pacificedgeclimbinggym.com 28 ASJ — April/May 2019

parked my car where the snow plows stopped plowing on the road that goes from June Lake to Silver Lake in the eastern Sierra Nevada.

Snow depths in the area were measured in several feet over the past week or so, when I got there. I wanted to snowshoe.

Where the snow plow stopped, snowshoeing began, meaning the unplowed road was the trail. As I strapped on my snowshoes, a backcountry snow boarder came walking out from the other side of the snow pile.

“Good, you’ll help pack it down,” he said. We exchanged a few musings on the recent weather as I finished with the final strap. He commented that the snowcovered road/trail was not trotted after half a mile or so.

A little ways down the road, two iceclimbers were seemingly learning how to use their axes on a snowy section of wall that was not more than a few feet off the ground. The day was blustery, wind chills in the low double digits nearing single digits. Silver Lake was out of view, but knowing it was up ahead and wanting to see its famed views from the other side served as my motivation.

Once past all the holes from the foot traffic and what looked like one set of snowshoe tracks that got out a day or two before me, there were only cross country ski tracks in front of me. The terrain graded slightly up, making the going a little strenuous, especially after arriving from sea level.

Behind me, I noticed two people getting on the trail. Some 15 minutes later, they caught up to me; cross country skis sliding easily across the snow.

Snow white Silver Lake came into view and I could see the distant shoreline.

Looking back, Carson Peak rose up, and a distinct couloir was visible.

Continuing on towards the shoreline, I was surprised at how labored the effort was. My quads were heating up as I traipsed over the deep snow. I was short of breath. To be frank, I struggled a little.

At the shore, I looked back across the frozen snow-covered lake. Winter’s grandeur in the eastern Sierra Nevada was on display. Gusts of icy wind whipped across the lake and slammed into my face. I smiled.

Turning around, I kept looking at that couloir, hoping to see someone drop

Top to bottom: 10oz of Hail Zythos at the June Lake Brewing tasting room (June Lake Brewing); Tracks at Silver Lake, June Lake (James Murren).

into it. Eventually, I noticed a line snaking down it. Someone did run it. Was it the snowboarder from earlier? Around me, trees were dressed up in their winter wear, a mega winter of snowfall not yet done. The immediate forecast called for a few more feet in the coming days.

Now back near where I began, I followed tracks from the previous snowshoer that went out onto the lake. The perspective from the open vastness, versus being treed-in, provided an understanding of immensity.

Back up on the trail, I went. I soon climbed over the snow pile and started unstrapping my snowshoes. Snowshoes off my feet, I loaded them into the car.

June Lake Brewing was my lunch plan. ***************************** I walked into the tasting room and reviewed the board of beer offerings.

When I saw a collaboration beer between June Lake Brewing and Alpine Beer Company, I did not contemplate or hesitate for a second on what I was going to drink.

Hail Zythos Pale Ale came in at 6.66%. I picked up the pint and got an immediate blast of citrus on the nose. Down the gullet, it finished with a little pine-resin dank. Highly drinkable, I thought, one of those beers that could sneak up on you.

The vibe was super laid back with locals talking at conversation tone. Sun streamed in through the windows. A couple recommended that I get the ahi taco from the food truck, so I walked across the icy parking lot and ordered one. Less than ten minutes later, it arrived to my seat at the bar. The couple was correct; it was as good as any ahi taco that I had eaten over the years.

Finishing up, I wanted another pint, but alas ... I had to drive.

Event Profiles Featured upcoming events

HUFFMASTER HOPPER

THE GREAT AUBURN EPIC RACE

Hopper Adventures is partnering with B-Rad Foundation to bring a new cross/gravel cycling event to Northern California. All proceeds from the inaugural Huffmaster Hopper will be donated to Butte County Camp Fire relief efforts.

This special Hopper takes place on the rolling gravel roads and lightly traveled tarmac of Colusa County, just west of I-5 and east of the Mendocino National Forest.

With two routes to choose from, 89 or 59 miles, and less climbing than a typical Hopper, riders will be treated to an adventure few have seen on two wheels. Both routes are half gravel and half paved.

Hopper Adventures founder Miguel Crawford says, “Our hope is to create a unique, challenging event that will connect our cycling community from the Bay Area with Central Valley, Chico, Davis, Sacramento and Redding cyclists. This is going to be a shredding good course for a great cause.”

Hopper Adventures also produces the popular Grasshopper Adventure Series. See page 30 for more information about this unique Northern California cycling race series.

Learn more at grasshopperadventureseries.com.

The inaugural Great Auburn Epic takes place in Auburn, the Endurance Capital of the World. This mountain bike race features four timed cross country stages on the spectacular trails at Auburn State Recreation Area (Auburn SRA).

The race starts with a 4.5 mile transfer along Foresthill Road including a crossing of the Foresthill Bridge – the highest bridge in California at 730 feet. Stage 1 is on smooth single track on the Foresthill Divide Loop from Grizzly Bear House to Drivers Flat. Stage 2 features four more miles on the Foresthill Divide Trail and then 3.5 miles of amazing flowy, twisty turns and switchbacks of the Connector Trail, where racers are treated to amazing canyon views above Lake Clementine. Stage 3 takes place on Culvert Trail – a flow trail with banks, berms, jumps and a tunnel under Foresthill Road. The fourth and final stage is the Confluence Trail from Mammoth Bar OHV along the Middle Fork of the American River to the confluence where the middle fork meets the north fork.

Post-race party with BBQ, craft beer, awards and shenanighans round out a great day on the bike.

Professional timing provided by California Enduro Series.

Learn more at totalbodyfitness.com.

April 28, Auburn

April 20, Maxwell

SEA OTTER CLASSIC April 11-14, Monterey

Sea Otter is cycling’s North American season opener.

Professional and amateur athletes alike make the annual pilgrimage to Sea Otter to participate in some of the sport’s most competitive and enduring events.

This festival offers the perfect opportunity to try out new bikes, with hundreds available to demo on the raceway and in three other demo zones. With special areas for eMTB, MTB skills and kids’ bikes — riders can try before they buy. Whether you’re young or old, new to cycling or experienced, you are sure to find obstacles and fun designed just for you throughout the Expo.

Demo bikes over all four days and take home not only big smiles, but new skills to practice on your local trails and routes.

Festival passes get you access to the demo areas, food court, beer garden, stunt shows, kids’ activities, and more. Buy online and save. Kids 12 and under are free, as is parking.

Learn more at seaotterclassic.com.

We Doubled Down!

Now with TWO Santa Cruz County locations to serve you. Join us at these upcoming events: • Sea Otter Classic Scavenger Hunt, Thursday April 11 — Sunday April 14 • Grand Opening Celebration in Capitola, Saturday April 27, 11-2pm • 26th Annual Bike Fest in Santa Cruz, Saturday May 11, 11-2pm • Bike Stunt Shows, Demos, Vendor Fairs, Family Fun, Food, Fundraisers and Free Raffles!

S A N TA C R U Z

• GIANT

• LIV

• YETI

• NORCO

C AP ITOL A

• CERVELO

• ALLIED

• ELECTRA

www. advent ur espor t sjour nal. com

29

GROVELAND GRIND

ENSENADA BIKE FEST

BISHOP HIGH SIERRA ULTRA MARATHONS

The Groveland Trail Heads mountain biking club brings back this unique fundraising cycling event for its second year. The Groveland Grind is a multi-terrain (pavement, broken pavement, gravel, small rocks and dirt) adventure ride at Yosemite National Park’s doorstep.

Riders will experience everything the majestic Stanislaus National Forest has to offer including grinding climbs, challenging terrain, and some of Mother Nature’s most amazing views.

With three routes to choose from, cyclists of all skill levels and in good physical condition can participate.

All three routes are truly special as they hug the border of Yosemite National Park, with some sections on the original road and railroad to Yosemite.

A post ride party tops off the day, complete with food, beer, and a raffle.

Proceeds support the Ferretti Non-Motorized Trail System project (mountain bike trails).

Learn more at grovelandtrailheads.org.

Baja’s premier mountain bike festival takes place over Memorial Day weekend at Horsepower Ranch in Ensenada, just 90 miles south of San Diego.

There’s something for everyone to enjoy at the festival whether you love music, relaxing poolside while soaking up the Baja sunshine, or riding your bike.

The festival’s mountain bike enduro race, the Ensenada Enduro, kicks off the 2019 season of the California Enduro Series (CES). The enduro-curious can try out a new event — the Grand Fonduro — which is a perfect introduction to the sport, getting riders out on two of the five stages that the CES racers will be using.

In addition, a brand new cross country mountain bike course wraps around the ranch, covering ten miles with over 1,500 feet of elevation on 85% single track. The festival will also feature a dual slalom and speed & style course built and designed by downhill racer Kevin Aiello.

Of course, local food and libations will be plentiful.

Learn more at californiaenduroseries.com.

Choose between a 20-mile “fun run,” a 50k, a 50-miler, and a 100k; all are high altitude races with a great deal of climbing in the scenic foothills of the eastern Sierra Nevada, above the small town of Bishop.

Courses are mostly comprised of four wheel drive dirt roads, with a couple sections of singletrack trail, and very short sections of pavement. There are very few trees, thus the race is exposed, often hot, usually dry, sometimes rocky, and mostly high! Much of the 100k and 50-mile courses are above 7,000 feet in altitude.

Aid stations for this event are famous for the variety of food and drinks available, particularly as the race progresses. Racers are treated to a post-race buffet, and awards are given to the winners of each distance.

The race is produced by Eastern Sierra Interpretive Association (ESIA) — a Bishop-area non-profit organization — and benefits its Eastern Sierra Youth Outdoor Program, and Inyo County Search and Rescue.

Learn more at bishopultras.com.

LOST AND FOUND

AMERICA’S MOST BEAUTIFUL BIKE RIDE

FEARS, TEARS AND BEERS

Recognized as one of the toughest (and most fun) gravel grinders in the west, the Lost and Found Bike Ride features a perfect blend of pavement, dirt road, gravel road and historic railroad grade. Racers must choose their weapon wisely (gravel bike, cross bike or mountain bike) with the “longest” ride at 100+ miles on 80% dirt, while shorter options exist at 60+ miles and 30+ miles.

High alpine lakes, meadows carpeted in wildflowers and majestic peaks await racers who will finish this year to live music, dancing, delicious food, an awards ceremony, a kids’ race/pump track, camping and a beer garden.

Make it a family adventure weekend and bring the whole clan and your friends to this event that won’t disappoint with plenty to do including swimming, boating and fishing at Lake Davis.

This race supports Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship trailwork efforts.

Learn more at lostandfoundbikeride.com.

Bike the West and The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society invite you to participate in the 28th annual America’s Most Beautiful Bike Ride, one of the most scenic and awe-inspiring rides you will ever experience. Spectacular scenery, clean mountain air, great food and fully supported by experienced ride organizers make this ride a “must do” for any avid recreational bicyclist.

Choose between a 72-mile ride around Lake Tahoe or a full 100-mile century. Also available again this year is the popular “boat cruise” ride. Enjoy a continental breakfast and sightseeing cruise across Lake Tahoe on the Tahoe Paradise; debark at Garwood’s Pier in Carnelian Bay, then ride the remaining 35 miles back to the finish line.

America’s Most Beautiful Bike Ride promotes Lake Tahoe Bikeway, a plan to build and interconnect bike lanes/trails around Lake Tahoe. It is also the culmination of The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s National Team In Training spring fund raising program.

Learn more at bikethewest.com.

With 14 years of racing history, Fears, Tears and Beers is America’s oldest, and still rowdiest, enduro bike race. Pedal your bike through two casinos on your way to the top of Ward Mountain. You’ll then be timed at specific sections of the course. There will be two to seven timed sections, mostly twisty downhills and sprint sections. The sum of the times on these special tests will determine the winner.

Choose from the following categories: Fun Run — shorter in length and less climbing than the beginner class, two timed sections; Beginner — 17.5 miles, 2,300′ elevation gain, three timed sections; Sport — 26.6 miles, 3,500′ elevation gain, four timed sections; Expert/Pro — 33.3 miles, 5,400′ elevation gain, six timed sections.

All participants get great swag and a post-race awards ceremony banquet.

This event is an annual fundraiser for Great Basin Trails Alliance.

Learn more at elynevada.net/fears-tears-and-beers.

May 24-26, Ensenada, Baja California, Mexico

June 1, Bishop

Photo: Photo John

May 18, Groveland

June 1, Portola

STAY IN THE LOOP 30 ASJ — April/May 2019

June 2, Lake Tahoe

June 8, Ely, Nevada

Subscribe to our monthly e-newsletter which includes a comprehensive listing of adventure sports events throughout California and western Nevada! Sign up at adventuresportsjournal.com.

MAMMOTH BAR ENDURO

Photo: Kasey Carames

June 28, Auburn

The Mammoth Bar Enduro offers a fun and challenging course that includes trails in the Auburn State Recreation Area (SRA) and Mammoth Bar OHV. In Auburn SRA, racers will take on two stages: one on Confluence Trail which runs along the Middle Fork American River and features a gradual descent featuring rock gardens and narrow sections; the other on flowy Culvert Trail which features banks, berms, jumps, drop offs and a tunnel under Foresthill Road. The other two stages of the day will take place at Mammoth Bar OHV: Eastside Trail which has been brushed and graded for a fast black diamond technical thrill run; and Stonewall/Rocky ... a stage that starts out steep on Stonewall then leads into the double black diamond Rocky Trail with a crowd favorite finish at the venue.

A post-race party with a full BBQ lunch, local craft beer, and awards will round out this big day of racing bikes. Professional timing provided by the California Enduro Series.

Learn more at totalbodyfitness.com.

CALIFORNIA ENDURO SERIES

The 2019 CES season kicks off in Baja California with the Ensenada Enduro. The event is part of the inaugural Ensenada Bike Fest, which takes place over Memorial Day weekend (May 24-26) at Horsepower Ranch in Ensenada, just 90 miles south of San Diego.

Also new this coming season is the Mt. Shasta Enduro, which is the third stop on the schedule, taking place July 13 at the Mt. Shasta Ski Park near Mount Shasta/ McCloud. This event introduces riders to a fresh riding zone on the south slope of Northern California’s iconic Mount Shasta. The course features 5,000’ of descent on a variety of fast, challenging, technical terrain.

As if that wasn’t all exhilarating enough, the popular Northstar Enduro returns for a sixth season, this time as Round 7 of the Enduro World Series (EWS). The event takes place over the August 23-25 weekend.

Big mountain favorites China Peak Enduro (June 29) and Mammoth Mountain Enduro (date TBD) — formerly Kamikaze Bike Games Enduro — return to the lineup as does the Ashland Mountain Challenge which wraps the season up in style October 5.

2019 series points will be based on the top five results of the six races.

Learn more at californiaenduroseries.com.

GRASSHOPPER ADVENTURE SERIES

Sustainable apparel & accessories made with 100% recycled materials.

Located in Northern California’s Sonoma and Mendocino counties, each “Hopper” is unique in its route and terrain and challenges both cyclist and equipment like no other race series in the world.

Remaining 2019 series events include: Skaggs & Super Skaggs Apr 27, King Ridge Dirt Supreme May 11, Jackson Forest June 22. Other Hopper Adventure events include: Huffmaster Hopper Apr 20 (see page 29), Mendo Hopper Sept 14-15, Usal Hopper Oct 12.

Learn more at grasshopperadventureseries.com.

CALIFORNIA MTB DIRT SERIES

Back for 2019 is the California DIRT MTB Series, one of YBONC Foundation’s fundraisers to support programs for Nevada County school bike clubs.

California DIRT MTB has been selected again by USA Cycling to host the 2019 California MTB XC State Championship as a series. There will be a cash purse to the Pro classes. Cash prizes will vary depending on class size/participation. If you participate in all races on the schedule, you are eligible to register with a fee bundle package, and win podium medals.

The series kicks off at Sea Otter Classic in Monterey on April 14; the rest of the schedule is as follows: #2 – May 5 in Nevada City (DA/Round MTN), #3 – May 25, Susanville Ranch Park in Susanville, #4 – June 23 in Grass Valley, #5 – July 7 in Nevada City (Dascombe/Hoot/Pioneer).

Learn more at ybonc.org/events/dirt-classic.

PROMOTE YOUR EVENT // Do you have

an event you’d like to see featured in this section? Learn about our event promotion packages by emailing us at events@ adventuresportsjournal.com. PLUS — list your event for FREE on our on-line calendar at adventuresportsjournal.com/add-event.

Custom branded designs and prints.

Rethink with Recover.

L E A R N M O R E - re cove rb ra n d s .co m

www. advent ur espor t sjour nal. com

31

ADVENTURE EVENTS CALENDAR List your event for FREE! AdventureSportsJournal.com/ add-event Check with race BIKING

producers to verify fees, times and events.

ADVENTURE RACING SEPTEMBER 14 — Tahoe Big Blue Adventure Race / North Lake Tahoe / Teams and individuals kayak or SUP, MTB, trail run, and navigate to the finishline / BigBlueAdventure.com 14 — Lake Tahoe MedWAR / Fallen Leaf Lake, South Lake Tahoe / MedWAR is short for Medical Wilderness Adventure Race. It is a unique event that combines wilderness medical challenges with the growing sport of adventure racing. / MedWAR.org

Road Show

APRIL 6 — Gran Fondo Las Vegas / Las Vegas, NV / PlanetUltra.com 11-14 — Sea Otter Classic / Monterey / World’s Premier Cycling Festival! / SeaOtterClassic.com 13 — Mulholland Challenge / Agoura Hills / PlanetUltra.com

20 — Sierra Century / Plymouth / 9 — Quick n’ Dirty Summer Series Race #1 / Escondido / quickndirtymtb.com SacWheelmen.org/SierraCentury.org 20 — Jump Clinic /SF Bay Area / Skills Park 11 — I Care Classic Bike Tour / San Jose / 4 routes / ICareClassic.org Progressions / ASingleTrackMind.co 27 — Skaggs & Super Skaggs / Mendo & Sonoma Counties / Grasshopper Adventure Series #4; 96 miles, 100% road or mixed terrain options / Grasshopper AdventureSeries.com

11 — King Ridge Supreme / Sonoma County / Grasshopper Adventure Series #5; 80mi & 62mi options, road & gravel / GrasshopperAdventureSeries.com

Auburn’s best trails; post-race BBQ, beer & awards / TotalBodyFitness.com

19 — Silicon Valley Bikes! Festival & Bicycle Show / NEW LOCATION Viva CalleSJ, San Jose / SiliconValleyBikesFestival.org

16 — Quick n’ Dirty Summer Series Race #2 27 — Ensenada Enduro Pre-Ride Weekend / Escondido / QuicknDirtyMTB.com / Ensenada MX / Preview of the May 24-26 18 — Groveland Grind / Groveland race course / CaliforniaEnduroSeries.com / Multi-terrain adventure ride in the Stanislaus National Forest near Yosemite / 28 — The Great Auburn Epic Race / GrovelandTrailheads.org Auburn SRA / Four timed XC stages on

MAY

13 — Mulholland Double Century / Agoura 3 — Flow Trails and Technical Terrain / Hills / PlanetUltra.com Marin, Tamarancho / ASingleTrackMind.com 14 — California Dirt MTB Series #1 / Sea 4 — Cosumnes Crusher / Rancho Murieta Otter Classic / All ages & levels. Music, food, / A unique cycling race on historic gold raffles. Proceeds benefit YBONC & more / mining routes and modern era singletrack / YBONC.org TotalBodyFitness.com

20 ­— The Bidwell Bump / Chico / Bumpin’ 4 — Santa Cruz Old Cabin Classic / Wilder since 1976 / 14M & 1200 elevation / Ranch, Santa Cruz / A benefit for biking in Facebook.com/TheBidwellBump Santa Cruz County / OldCabinClassic.com 20 — Huffmaster Hopper / Maxwell / 80mi 5 — California Dirt MTB Series #2 / & 54mi options, 50/50 gravel & remote Nevada City (DA/Round Mtn) / All ages & county pavement; benefits Camp Fire victims levels. Music, food, raffles. Proceeds benefit / GrasshopperAdventureSeries.com YBONC & more / YBONC.org

2016 2017

23 — Quick n’ Dirty Summer Series Race #3 / Escondido / QuicknDirtyMTB.com

NAM

E __ ___ events program _Adventure Sports Journal _Ensenada, A _of_personally GEunderstands 24-26 — Ensenada Bike Fest / magazine, the importance _ _ _ __roadshow __and_connec developed (MX) our to get our magazines BajaWe California / Inaugural mountain _ _spons __roadshow the years_California our program bike athletes. fest Over includes Endurohas grown_a_ _ EM _ _working and mostoff Consider with us throug Series kick + dual events. slalom, XC_& AILinteresting _more integrated programs that includes events, _print,ST/web and soc ___ CaliforniaEnduroSeries.com ATE ___ __ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ 24 — 1-Day Core Fundamentals / Granite Bay/Sacramento / ASingleTrackMind.com

INTEGRATED MARKETING Events // Print // Digital // Additional prize giveaways at Sea Otter from:

2016

April 11 – 14 Sea Otter Classic Monterey

May 4 Old Cabin MTB Race Santa Cruz

19 — Strawberry Fields Forever Ride / Watsonville / Fully supported; 30mi, 60mi, 100mi options. Benefits Cyclists for Cultural Exchange / StrawberryFields.org

NAM AGE EMA

E __

___

___

___

___

___

___

___

___

___

___

Wha t [ ] [ ]M [ ]C [ ] S lim urf How per often we d [ ] 0 ek? [ ] 4 -1 -5

___ _ ST ___ ATE ___ _ _ Come by and see the latest news from our sponsors ___great prizes. ___ & enter to win ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ZIP _ COD ___ ___ E __ ___ ___ ___ __ ___ ___ ___ ___ _ We will be raffling off entries to some popular California events at Sea Otter Classic and will also be a part of a scavenger May 19, 2018 Surfer’s Path Marathon Capitola

IL _

___

hunt together with Giant Bicycles & Bicycle Trip. Make sure to stop by our booth — #G46.

32 ASJ — April/May 2019

may 18, 2019 3 epic routes on the border of Yosemite National Park.

The Groveland Trail Heads mountain biking club brings back this unique fundraising cycling event for its second year. The Groveland Grind is a multi-terrain adventure ride at Yosemite National Park’s doorstep.

Riders will experience everything the majestic Stanislaus National Forest has to offer including grinding climbs, challenging terrain, and some amazing views.

info and registration www.grovelandtrailheads.org

E R I C A

B

I K E

E

’ S

A M

www.facebook.com/GrovelandTrailHeads

D R I

www. advent ur espor t sjour nal. com

33

ASJ Events Calendar — For a complete list of events please visit AdventureSportsJournal.com

BIKING, cont.

15 — Mammoth Bar Enduro / Mammoth Bar OHV & Auburn SRA / Four timed enduro 25 — California Dirt MTB Series #3 / flowy & technical stages; post-race meal, Susanville Ranch Park / All ages & levels. prizes & awards / TotalBodyFitness.com Music, food, raffles. Proceeds benefit 20 — Quick n’ Dirty Summer Series Race YBONC & more / YBONC.org #6 / Escondido / QuicknDirtyMTB.com 25-26 — The Little Big / Truckee Bike Park 22 — Jackson Forest / Mendocino County / / A cycling filled weekend of fun, learning, Grasshopper Adventure Series Finale; 75mi progression and racing / TruckeeBikePark. & 50mi options, 90% dirt/gravel/singletrack org/thelittlebig / GrasshopperAdventureSeries.com 30 — Quick n’ Dirty Summer Series Race 22 — Lake Tahoe Mountain Bike Race / #4 / Escondido / QuicknDirtyMTB.com Tahoe City / Choose from the 4hr, 8hr or 24 Mile XC / AdventureSportsWeekTahoe.com

JUNE

22 — Girls Rock Women’s Mountain Biking Event / Santa Cruz / EpicenterCycling.com

1 — Lost & Found Gravel Grinder / Lake Davis / 30mi, 60mi, 100mi / SierraTrails.org 23 — California Dirt MTB Series #4 /

Grass Valley / All ages & levels. Music, food, 2 — America’s Most Beautiful Bike Ride raffles. Proceeds benefit YBONC & more / / Lake Tahoe / 100mi & 72mi road ride YBONC.com around Lake Tahoe; Boat Cruise/35-mile 27 — Quick n’ Dirty Summer Series Race #7 option available / BikeTheWest.com / Escondido / QuicknDirtyMTB.com 8 — Incarnation 100 / Santa Rosa / 32mi, 45mi, 100K & 100mi / Incarnation100.org 28 - 30 — Carson City Off-Road / Carson City, NV / Choose from three different 8 — Tour of Two Forests / Santa Clarita / distance options (15, 35 or 50 miles), each PlanetUltra.com crafted from a spectacular set of carefully8 — Fears, Tears and Beers / The oldest curated trails / EpicRides.com mountain bike enduro event in America 29 — Alta Alpina / Turtle Rock Park, / Showcases the trails around Ely, NV / Markleeville / Metric, Century, 5 Pass ElyNevada.net/Fears-Tears-and-Beers/ Challenge / 8 Pass Challenge / Personal 13 — Quick n’ Dirty Summer Series Race #5 Challenge / altaalpina.org / Escondido / QuicknDirtyMTB.com 29 — China Peak Enduro / Lakeshore 15 — 1-Day Core Fundamentals / Marin / / California Enduro Series # 2 / CaliforniaEnduroSeries.com ASingleTrackMind.com

ADVENTURE SPOR

TS W E E K

Lake Tahoe Mountain Bike Race Saturday June 22nd

Burton Creek 6K, 12K, Half Marathon Trail Run Sunday June 23rd

XTERRA Tahoe City Saturday June 29th

Tahoe City Swim Saturday June 29th

AdventureSportsWeek.com 34 ASJ — April/May 2019

ASJ Events Calendar — For a complete list of events please visit AdventureSportsJournal.com

JULY

SEPTEMBER

7 — California Dirt MTB Series #5 / Nevada City (Dascombe/Hoot/Pioneer) / All ages & levels. Music, food, raffles. Proceeds benefit YBONC & more / YBONC.org

TBD — Mammoth Mountain Enduro / Mammoth Lakes / California Enduro Series #5 / californiaenduroseries.com 8 — Tour de Tahoe - Bike Big Blue / Lake Tahoe / 72-mile road ride around Lake Tahoe; Boat Cruise/35-mile option available / BikeTheWest.com

13 — Tahoe Trail 100 / Northstar California / 50K or 100K / Pine forests and beautiful Tahoe views / TahoeTrailMTB.com 13 — Death Ride - Tour of the California Alps / Markleeville / 5 pass ride, 129 mi, and 15,000 feet of lung-busting climbing / DeathRide.com

8 – Race The Rails / Ely, NV / Train vs Bicycles / MTB and road bikers race against the train on a challenging 10 mile course through the mountains surrounding Ely / ElyNevada.net/Race-The-Rails/

13 — Mt. Shasta Enduro / Mt. Shasta Ski Park, McCloud / California Enduro Series # 3 / CaliforniaEnduroSeries.com

14-15 — Mendo Hopper / Mendocino County / Day 1: 75mi, Day 2: 79mi; mixed terrain, camping & meals included / GrasshopperAdventureSeries.com

20 — Santa Cruz Mountains Challenge / UCSC Baskin School of Engineering, Santa Cruz / Four ride options featuring challenging climbs, coastal views and gorgeous scenery / SantaCruzMountainsChallenge.com 27 — 1-Day Core Fundamentals / Santa Cruz / ASingleTrackMind.com

1-4 — Downieville Classic MTB Race and Festival / Downieville / All Mountain World Championships, XC Adventure Race, Downieville Downhill / DownievilleClassic. com

2019

5 — Ashland Mountain Challenge / Ashland, OR / CES Finale / CaliforniaEnduroSeries.com 6 — Great Trail Race / Truckee /Tahoe City / MTB or run / GreatTrailRace.com 12 — Usal Hopper / Humboldt & Mendocino Counties / 60, 43, & 32mi options, mixed terrain; camping included / GrasshopperAdventureSeries.com 13 — TBF MTB 50-Miler / Granite Bay, Folsom SRA / TotalBodyFitness.com 19 — Solvang Autumn Double Century & Solvang’s Finest Century / Solvang / PlanetUltra.com 23 — Death Valley Century / Death Valley National Park / PlanetUltra.com

21 — Stetina’s Sierra Prospect / Mt Rose / SierraProspect.com

26 — Filthy 50+ / Escondido / Fast, flowy 30mi & 50mi courses. Kids’ course, raffle, awards & more / QuicknDirtyMTB.com

22-28 — OATBRAN (One Awesome Tour Bike Ride Across Nevada) / Lake Tahoe to Baker, NV / Epic cycling journey across Nevada / BikeTheWest.com

23-25 — Northstar Enduro / Truckee /CES #4; EWS #7 / CaliforniaEnduroSeries.com

2-3 — Nevada County Women’s Mountain Bike Skills Clinic & Camp / Nevada City / YBONC.org

21 — Gold Rush Growler MTB Race / Folsom / TotalBodyFitness.com

21-28 — Arthritis Foundation’s California Coast Classic Bike Tour / San Francisco to Los Angeles / Ride the iconic Highway 1 fully supported and at your own pace / Events.

Arthritis.org

AUGUST

OCTOBER

28 — Grinduro / Quincy / Gravel grinder plus MTB style enduro, 2 day festival / Grinduro.com

California

DECEMBER 8 — Dirty 30 / Poway / Fun and challenging 30(ish)mi XC race in Sycamore Canyon / QuicknDirtyMTB.com

Continued on page 36

Alpine County California 2019

DIRT

MOUNTAIN BIKE SERIES

June 29

Choose up to 8 of your favorite passes or pick from one of our popular routes

State MTB XC Championship Series

X-C BIKE SERIES • ALL AGES & LEVELS • KIDS COURSE APR 14 Sea Otter Classic, Monterey • MAY 5 DA/Round Mtn, Nevada City MAY 25 Susanville Ranch Park • JUNE 23 Osborne Hill, Grass Valley JULY 7 Dascombe/Hoot/Pioneer Trails, Nevada City

RAC E S • M U SIC • RA F F LE • FO OD REGISTER & INFO: ybonc.org

Proceeds support Nevada County school bike clubs, trail projects, & YBONC

mtb RACing beer • wine FOOD • music May 24-26 ENDURO CES ROUND 1 DUAL SLALOM • SPEED & STYLE XC • GRAN FONDURO • KIDS RACES

www.AltaAlpina.org/challenge J O I N U S F O R T H E R I D E O F A L I F E T I M E ! R I D E T H E I C O N I C H I G H WAY 1. $25 OFF

REGISTRATION USE CODE

ADVENTURE

Cycle 525 miles among waves, woods & wineries from San Francisco to Los Angeles. Fully supported and at your own pace.

Support the Arthritis Foundation by joining us for our 19th annual tour and be a Champion of Yes. Register today at arthritis.org/CaliforniaCoastClassic

horsepower ranch Ensenada baja mexico facebook.com/ensensadabike.fest www. advent ur espor t sjour nal. com

35

MARKETPLACE

Ride With Us. Ride Better.

MTB Skills Coaching • Groups • Private • Teams Certified IMBA, NICA, NASM, Betterride, USA Cycling, & WFR 4,500+ pro hrs of coaching

MISC MAY

4 — Wild Wild West Marathon / Lone Pine / plus 50K, 50mi, & 10mi / LonePineChamber.org/events

JUNE

11 — Love My Mom 5K and Kids’ Dash / Folsom / Celebrate moms, family, and fitness! All ages, strollers, and dogs welcome. / Folsom.ca.us/parks/events/ events/mom.asp

May 31 – June 2 — Lake Tahoe Restorative Arts & Yoga Festvial / Granlibakken Tahoe, Tahoe City / Three days of meditation and movement in North Lake Tahoe / Granlibakken.com 21-30 — Adventure Sports Week / Tahoe / For those who appreciate clean air, clear water, scenic single track, and an elevated heart rate. / AdventureSportsWeekTahoe.com

PADDLING

11 — Miracle Miles for Kids 10K Walk/Run / Morro Bay / MM4k.com

17 — XTERRA Trail Run 5K & 10K (10K RRCA NV State Championship) / Incline Village, NV / TahoeTrailRunning.com

11 — Muir Woods Marathon, Half Marathon, & 7 Mile / Stinson Beach / Challenging trail run / EnviroSports.com

25 — Good Dog - Dirty Dog 5K/10K / Granite Beach, Folsom SRA / TotalBodyFitness.com

11 — Quicksilver Endurance Runs - 100K & 50K / San Jose / Quicksilver-Running.com

SEPTEMBER

JUNE

18 — XTERRA Malibu Creek Trail Run / Malibu / TrailRace.com

1 — Donner Lake Paddle Racing / Donner Lake / Tahoepaddleracing.com

19 — Surfer’s Path Marathon, Capitola Half Marathon & Relay / Santa Cruz & Capitola / Scenic, coastal courses travel past world famous surf breaks. Surfs UP! / RunSurfersPath.com

8 — XTERRA Laguna Beach Trail Run & Triathlon / Crystal Cove State Park / TrailRace.com

SEPTEMBER 15 — Tahoe Cup Lake Crossing / Lake Tahoe / Tahoepaddleracing.com

RUNNING APRIL 6 — American River 50 Mile Endurance Run / Calistoga / 25- & 50- mile / norcalultras.com 7 — Mighty Dog 5K & 10K Trail Runs / Granite Beach, Folsom SRA / TotalBodyFitness.com

36 ASJ — April/May 2019

11 — Marlette 50K and 10 Miler (50K RRCA Western Region Championship, 10 Miler RRCA NV State Championship) / Lake Tahoe’s East Shore / Choose the 50K or 10 Miler, both feature amazing Tahoe trails and scenery / TahoeTrailRunning.com

8 — Delta Harvest Run / Brentwood / OnYourMarkEvents.com

10-11 — Ta-Hoe Nalu Paddle Festival / Kings Beach State Park, Lake Tahoe / World’s original SUP race, all ages and skill levels, clinics and demos / TahoeNalu.com

staff@adventuresportsjournal.com

4 — Truckee Half Marathon / Truckee / Half, 5K & Kids’ Distances / A loop course that starts and finishes in downtown Truckee / TruckeeMarathon.com

18 — Oakdale Chocolate Festival Run / Oakdale / OnYourMarkEvents.com

27-28 — Kern River Festival / Kernville / KernFestival.com

AUGUST

We offer a wide range of promo tools to boost your business’ visibility. We’ll customize a plan that’s just right for your budget and objectives!

3 — Twilight Trail Adventure / Auburn / 5K & 10K options / NorCalUltras.com

TBD — Truckee Marathon / Truckee / Plus Half Marathon, 50K, & 10K / TruckeeMarathon.com

TBD — Annual Jay Moriarity Memorial Paddleboard Race / Capitola / JayMoriarityFoundation.org

Ask

5 — Aztec 5K Run/Walk / Oakland / OnYourMarkEvents.com

AUGUST

12 — Mother’s Day 5K & Happy Kids 3K / Granite Beach, Folsom SRA / TotalBodyFitness.com

JULY

About our marketing packages

4 — T9 Mermaid Run East Bay / Fremont / MermaidSeries.com

May 11 — I Am More Than What You Sea / Santa Cruz / One day women’s retreat (13 and over) / Yoga, meditation, keynote speakers and more! / minimermaidrunningclub. org/iammorethanwhatyousea

APRIL asingletrackmind.com • (209) 662-5392

4 — Ripon’s Run Half Marathon, 10K & 5K / Ripon / OnYourMarkEvents.com

13 — Mt. Tam Wild Boar Half Marathon & 10K / Mt. Tamalpais State Park / Envirosports.com 24 — XTERRA Black Mountain Trail Run / San Diego / TrailRace.com 28 — Big Sur International Marathon / Big Sur / Marathon, Relay, 21M, 11M, 12K and 5K / BigSurMarathon.org

MAY 4 — Armstrong Redwoods Trail Run / Guerneville / PacificCoastTrailRuns.com 4 — Miwok 100K / Stinson Beach / Miwok100K.com

JUNE 1 — Bishop High Sierra Ultras / Bishop / 20mi, 50K, 50mi, & 100K in the scenic foothills of the Eastern Sierra Nevada / BishopUltras.com 2 — Run in the Name of Love / Carmelby-the-Sea / 5K run & 2K walk / Run4Love.org 2 — Truckee Running Festival: Waddle Ranch Trail Half, Legacy 5K & 10K / Truckee, CA / Beautiful and scenic / Fund raiser for the Girls on the Run Sierras / TahoeTrailRunning.com 8-9 — Marine Corps Mud Run / Camp Pendleton / MarineCorpsMudRun.com 9 — Squaw Valley Half and Run to Squaw 8 Miler / Olympic Valley / Fast and flat starts and finishes in the Village at Squaw Valley / SquawValleyHalf.com 23 — Burton Creek Trail Runs / Tahoe City / 6K, 12K, Half Marathon / Beautiful, fun and challenging / TahoeTrailRunning.com

JULY 4 — Run to The Beach / Tahoe Vista / 5K & 10K / TahoeTrailRunning.com 6 — Hernia Hill Half Marathon, 10K & 5K Run / Vallecito / OnYourMarkEvents.com 6 — She Rocks the Trails / Auburn / 10- & 25- mile options /NorCalUltras.com 14 — Big Chief 50K / Tahoe / Loop course 50K Trail Run that starts and finishes at Northstar / BigBlueAdventure.com

14 — Headlands Hundred / Sausalito / 100mi, 75mi, Triple Marathon, 50mi, Marathon / PacificCoastTrailRuns.com 15 — Emerald Bay Trail Run / Lake Tahoe West Shore / TahoeTrailRunning.com 21 — Gold Rush Growler 10 Mile & 5K Trail Runs / Granite Beach / TotalBodyFitness.com 21 — Lederhosen 5K / Olympic Valley / TahoeTrailRunning.com 28 — Big Sur Trail Marathon, Half Marathon & 5 Mile / Big Sur / EnviroSports.com

OCTOBER 5-6 — Skyline to the Sea Marathon, Half Marathon, & 50K / Saratoga / PacificCoastTrailRuns.com 6 — Great Trail Race / Truckee/Tahoe City / Mountain bike or run / GreatTrailRace.com 12 — Ruth Anderson Memorial Endurance Run / Lake Merced, San Francisco / UltraSignUp.com 19 — BGCSF Halloween 5K / San Francisco / Sports Basement Presidio / SportsBasement.com 20 — Folsom Blues Breakout 13.1 / Folsom / Plus 5K, relay, & kids’ 1K / FolsomBluesHalf.org

NOVEMBER 10 — Monterey Bay Half Marathon / Monterey / Out and back along Cannery Row and Pacific Grove / MontereyBayHalfMarathon.com

DECEMBER 9 — Jingle Bell Rock / Santa Cruz / FinishLineProduction.com

ASJ Events Calendar — For a complete list of events please visit AdventureSportsJournal.com

MAY

SWIMMING APRIL 7 — ICE Breaker 1/2 mile, 1 mile & 2 mile Open Water Swims / Granite Beach, Folsom SRA / TotalBodyFitness.com

JULY 21 — Alpine Fresh Water Swim / Truckee / TahoeSwimming.com

AUGUST 18 — Lake Tahoe Sharkfest Swim / Incline Village, NV / SharkFestSwim.com 22 — Golden Gate Bridge Swim / San Francisco / WaterWorldSwim.com 24 — Alcatraz Swim with the Centurions / San Francisco / WaterWorldSwim.com 24 — Lake Tahoe Open Water Swim / Tahoma / TahoeSwimming.com

JULY

11 — Folsom Lake International Triathlon / Granite Beach, Folsom Lake SRA / Lake swim, one lap road bike, scenic trail run; post-race massage & meal / TotalBodyFitness.com 12 — Mother’s Day Triathlon/Duathlon, 5K & Happy Kids 3K / Granite Beach, Folsom SRA / TotalBodyFitness.com 19 — Morgan Hill Sprint Triathlon / UVAS Reservoir, Morgan Hill / 3/4mi swim, 16mi bike, 5mi run / USAPevents.com

JUNE 2 — Herablife 24 Triathlon / Los Angeles / Inaugural event / Starting in Venice Beach and ending in LA / Herbalife24Tri.la 2 — Orange County Tri Series / Lake Mission Viejo / 1.5K swim, 40K bike, 10K run / OCTriSeries.com 8 — TRI for FUN Triathlon #1 / Granite Beach, Folsom SRA / TotalBodyFitness.com

25 — Golden Gate Sharkfest Swim / Sausalito / SharkFestSwim.com

9 — Monte Rio Triathlon / Sonoma County / & Aqua Bike, 10K & 5K run / VineMan.com

TRIATHLON

9 — Tri for Kids Triathlon #1 / Granite Beach, Folsom SRA / TotalBodyFitness.com

APRIL 6 — ICE Breaker Triathlon & ICE Breaker Dash Triathlon/Duathlon / Granite Beach, Folsom SRA / TotalBodyFitness.com 28 — Millerton Lake Triathlon (Crow’s Nest) / Millerton Lake / Sprint & Olympic / 5K & 10K Runs / SierraCascades.com

29 — XTERRA Tahoe City / Tahoe City / Open Water Swim, Mountain Bike and Trail Run starts and finishes in Tahoe City / AdventureSportsWeekTahoe.com 30 — Dip and Dash Swim-Run & Team Challenge / Santa Cruz / 3 distance options / FinishLineProduction.com

SEPTEMBER

13 — TRI for FUN Triathlon #2 / Granite Beach, Folsom SRA / TotalBodyFitness.com 13 — June Lake Triathlon / June Lake / The Toughest Race in the Most Beautiful Place! / HighSierraAthletics.com/june-laketriathlon 14 — Tri for Kids & Real Triathlon #2 / Granite Beach, Folsom SRA / TotalBodyFitness.com 20-21 — Donner Lake Triathlon / Truckee / Spint, Olympic, 70.3, Duathlon and Kids’ Distances / DonnerLakeTri.com

AUGUST 10 & 11 — TRI for FUN / KIDS / REAL Triathlon #3 / Granite Beach, Folsom SRA / TotalBodyFitness.com 11 — Tri Santa Cruz / Santa Cruz / FinishLineProduction.com 17 — XTERRA Lake Tahoe / Incline Village, NV / The all time classic XTERRA that features some of the best trails in Tahoe / BigBlueAdventure.com 24 — 22nd Annual Granite Bay Triathlon / Granite Beach, Folsom SRA / TotalBodyFitness.com 24-25 — Lake Tahoe Triathlon / Tahoma / Spint, Olympic, 70.3, Duathlon and Aquabike / LakeTahoeTri.com

6-8 — Graniteman Challenge / June Lake, Mammoth Lakes, Lee Vining/ Yosemite / 3 Days of Multi-Sport: Friday Swim • Saturday Bike • Sunday Run / HighSierraAthletics.com/graniteman 7 — Women’s Triathlon Festival / Granite Beach, Folsom SRA / TotalBodyFitness.com 8 — Xterra / Long Beach / Long & sprint courses, relays, open water swim, aquathlon, 13K & 6K trail runs / XterraLagunaBeach.com 28 — Pacific Coast Triathlon/Duathlon / Crystal Cove State Beach / OCTriSeries.com 29 — Golden State Triathlon & Super Sprint Triathlon / Granite Beach, Folsom SRA / TotalBodyFitness.com

OCTOBER 5 — T9 Mermaid Triathlon & Duathlon / Capitola / International Tri, Sprint Tri, Sprint Du / MermaidSeries.com

View & list events for free on our website at Adventure SportsJournal.com

BIG SUR INTERNATIONAL MARATHON Registration drawings begin July 15, 2019! bigsurmarathon.org

Marathon • Relay • 21-Miler • 11-Miler • 12K • 5K • Boston 2 Big Sur www. advent ur espor t sjour nal. com

37

BIG AGNES COPPER SPUR HV UL2 BIKEPACKING TENT

Big Agnes really nailed it with this tent designed specifically for bikepacking. We already know that Big Agnes produces high quality adventure gear utilizing the very latest technology. Add a host of features specific to bikepacking, and la voila — the ultimate overnight cycling adventure awaits you.

This two-door, free-standing tent features shortened pole segments for optimal handlebar, pannier, and saddlebag storage, and it packs down into a light but tough compression sack that can withstand the rigors of the trail. Extras include plenty of storage (oversized pocket with portals for media, two regular mesh pockets, and a 3-D shelf above your feet), webbing for dry helmet storage, daisy-chain webbing loops on the fly for drying wet clothes and gear, and so much more.

You get plenty of room at 29 sq ft with 9 / 9 sq ft in vestibule space. Its packed weight comes in at 3lb 7oz, measuring 6" x 12". Want to shave off nearly a pound? Try Fast Fly mode: fly, footprint (sold separately), poles, and stakes.

MSRP: $449.95 • bigagnes.com

Gear We Love Goodies for your active lifestyle

SKULL CANDY PUSH TRULY WIRELESS EARBUDS Skull Candy has taken wireless earbuds to such a whole new level, they should call them something else. The Push boasts twelve hours of battery life, holding up to six hours of play in the earbuds, and another six in the charging case.

When you’re not listening, your earbuds are charging in their case and ready to rock and roll the next time you pop them in.

Longevity and sound quality aren’t the only things that Push will impress you with. Its innovative form factor not only eliminates signal loss, but also lets you effortlessly control each earbud. Control is yours without having to touch your phone. Skull Candy’s original FitFin ear gel design comfortably tucks into any ear, giving you a fit that won’t fall out. Psychotropical Teal, Gray Day or Bold Tangerine.

MSRP: $99.99-$129.99 • skullcandy.com

REVELATE DESIGNS VOLE SEAT BAG

The Revelate Designs Vole seat bag is designed for full-suspension bikepacking trips when using a dropper seat post, and is the winner of the 2018 Bikepacking. com Gear of the Year Award.

We’re very impressed with Revelate Design’s attention to design and construction, especially its innovative Indie-Rail attachment system. This is a vast improvement over conventional bikepacking seat bags mounted via rail straps that are fixed to the top-center of the bag. With Revelate’s Indie-Rail attachment system, each rail is cinched down to the sides of the bag which significantly reduces bag sway. This attachment system is one of many innovations designed to stabilize and compact the load without additional external hardware.

All this is combined with a rigid internal structure and active camming buckles that prevent straps from loosening and slipping on rough terrain and/or wet conditions. It’s stiffened on all sides including an external plastic bottom sheet which protects the bottom of the bag, and a composite internal top sheet which provides a solid and stable platform for the strap points.

The Vole is geared toward the minimalist bikepacker and can accommodate a volume of 2-7 litres.

The bag itself weighs a mere 11 ounces; 13 with the clamp.

MSRP: $159.00 • revelatedesigns.com 38 ASJ — April/May 2019

HYDRAPAK VELOCITY IT 1.5L

We’re very excited about the debut of the Velocity IT 1.5L, as it’s the first insulated reservoir on the market.

This insulated version of the lightweight Velocity 1.5L features HydraPak’s allnew IsoBound technology. With this technology, fluids are kept at their ideal temperature 38% longer than a standard reservoir — what a game-changer for outdoor endurance activities.

Double-wall construction and open cell foam technology create a barrier that slows heat transfer from user to fluid.

The top opens wide for fast filling, and closes up nice and tight. The Plug-NPlay connect system allows for easy disconnect and the reservoir is reversible for convenient cleaning and drying. In fact, it’s top-shelf dishwasher safe. 100% BPA and PVC-free.

MSRP: $38.00 • hydrapak.com

RUFFWEAR CORE COOLER

Summer is coming, and our furry adventure companions who have been joyfully romping in this year’s abundance of snow will soon be panting under a hot sun.

The Ruffwear Core Cooler will come to their rescue. This three-layer chest panel uses evaporative cooling to efficiently pull heat from the dog’s core during warm temperatures and high intensity activities. To activate, simply wet the Core Cooler with water and wring out. Works like a charm to keep the fur kids comfortable while out on adventures.

The Core Cooler easily attaches to Ruffwear harnesses and packs using hook-and-loop sleeves. This add-on also offers additional support when lifting and assisting, and further stabilizes packs and harnesses. It’s designed for use with the following Ruffwear harnesses and packs: Web Master Harness, Web Master Pro Harness, Approach Pack, Palisades Pack, and Singletrak Pack. Comes in XS, S, M, L/XL. MSRP: $24.95 • ruffwear.com

WTB KODA CYCLING SADDLE

Okay, WOW. The folks over at WTB sure nailed it with this women’s specific mountain biking saddle. So much so, that even male riders are gushing over it.

We honestly didn’t think it was possible to make a saddle this comfortable. Its luxurious feel requires no break-in time ... you’ll notice the difference from the get-go and it will carry you through many an epic adventure. Whether you enjoy cross country or trail riding, enduro racing or bikepacking, the Koda will take excellent care of you in comfort and style.

How did they do it? A generously open channel divides supportive outer zones to alleviate pressure on your sensitive bits, while a short nose provides seamless on-off transitions. A slightly swooped shape provides an adequate tail to brace against.

The Koda is offered in the following styles: Comp (steel rail); Race (cromoly rail); Pro (cromoly rail); Team (titanium rail). It comes in medium (142mm) and wide (150mm) widths and is 255mm long.

MSRP: $39.95 - $129.95 • wtb.com

FIDO AIRLIFT PRO

If you adventure in the backcountry with a canine friend, have you considered how you will move him/her to safety in the event that he/she is injured or ill? The Fido Airlift Pro is an easy-to-use hammock-style backpack that allows for you to do just that. You don’t want to head out to a remote location without packing this essential, potentially lifesaving piece of gear.

The Fido Pro Airlift is lightweight and packable (packs to the size of a burrito!) and weighs just eight ounces.

It’s specifically designed to live in the bottom of your backpack alongside your personal emergency gear. Its patented design features an 8-point contact system, distributing the dog’s weight evenly amongst the frame, which provides a comfortable ride for the injured animal and an easy carry for his/her human.

The Fido Pro Airlift is recommended and used by the National Association For Search And Rescue.

Regardless of your adventure plans, you’ll have peace of mind knowing you have a reliable method for saving your furry companion if needed.

MSRP: $69.95 • fidoprotection.com

Dakine Hot Laps 5 L with Compact 2 L

GEAR CHECK | BIKING HYDRATION

The Flow State

Shape-Shift 2 L

Frame geometry, wheel size, and suspension for mountain bikes have all undergone a sea change in the past decade, yet while flow, loam, and enduro are new buzzwords we’ve all had a bit of a blindspot to the revolutions in hydration technology. This year we’re seeing more low-riding lumbar reservoirs— Dakine cleverly uses them in their Hot Laps 5 L waist bag and half of their hydration backpack line— that offer new levels of on-trail agility. Additionally, bite-valves and kink-free tubing deliver more thirstquenching flow, and reservoir “reversibility” is a welcome maintenance feature turning the moldy science experiments of the past into the paradigm of clean drinking. The brand leading the innovation charge is HydraPak and this season is no different with a complete revamp of their flagship Shape-Shift reservoir. Their entire lineup has innovative, fresh features and an upgrade will leave you feeling like you did when you finally ditched your dusty old trail bike for a new 29er.

Thule Vital 6 L with ShapeLoc 2 L

Summer is just around the bend. Time for fun in the sun.

Time for a fishing trip, a family campout, or heading for the hills.

Lake Tahoe. Sequoia. Crater Lake. Anza Borrego. The Lost Coast.

Unplug Get Outside Keep It Simple

You could do it in a big, expensive RV…or a long cumbersome trailer.

Or, you can make great use of a truck by adding our pop-up camper.

You’ll have a dry, warm space with a comfy queen or king sized bed.

You can get lost for a long time - powered by solar and propane.

Maybe add a bed, fridge, sink, stove, shower, or toilet.

The popped up roof goes 6’4”, creating a nice living space.

Driving, turning, parking, and making camp are all a breeze.

Life is short. Places to go. Great things to see. Make this the year.

Give us a call. We can talk trucks, campers, and adventures.

Visit our new website with 3D video tours at WWW.FOURWH.COM