2014
The City Creek Trail system
The bike trails in Pocatello’s back yard
How to
get started Tips on how to begin a mountain biking obsession
STERLING JUSTICE
Turning separate trail systems into one giant mountain biking destination
2014
ON THE COVER: Hunter Rodriguez rounds a berm on City Creek trail. Ph oto By : Dou g Lin DLe y /iDa h o Sta te Jou rn a L
Getting Started with the Right Gear........................... Football players have their pads. Baseball players have their mitts. In every sport, certain gear is required. Make sure you have the right biking gear before you head out to the mountains for a ride.
inside • Letter from the Editor ................................4 • Health Benefits of Cycling ..........................5 • Getting Started in Mountain Biking ............6 • Overview of Gear .....................................10 • USA Cycling-Affiliated Clubs .....................12 • Idaho Falls Attempting to Build Bike Park..... 14 • City Creek Management Area Trail Map....16 • Trail Opportunities in Pocatello ................18 • Spinderella..............................................25 • Wydaho Mountain Biking Festival ............28 • Photos from Our Readers .........................29
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Zach Peterson .................. When most teenagers turn 16, they want a car. All Utahresident Zach Peterson, a teenage cycling prodigy who is making waves, wants is his bike.
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Pedalfest .............................. The fifth annual Pocatello PedalFest will be held June 14 at Centennial Park. The event celebrates mountain biking and raises money to improve local trail systems.
Over 58,000 magazines distributed plus available online. EdITOR: dave Ashby news@xtremeidaho.com photos@xtremeidaho.com
PUBLICATION GRAPHIC dESIGNER: Michele L. Peterson
AdVERTISING SALES: Joey Bowers advertising@xtremeidaho.com
PHOTOGRAPHY: Cover: doug Lindley Back Cover: Ed Gygli
Idaho Outdoor News Over 58,000 magazines distributed plus available
xtreme idaho ~ spring edition 2014 ~ Idaho State Journal ~ 3
David Ashby Outdoors Editor
Dear Reader, Thank you for picking up and reading the very first edition of Xtreme Idaho magazine. We, at the Idaho State Journal, are planning to release another edition next fall, focusing on the latest, most relevant outdoors news in the Gem State. This edition will focus exclusively on mountain biking, but in future publications we are planning to expand into other topics as well, such as hunting, fishing, skiing, snowmobiling, conservation and guns. In a survey conducted in 2013, Idaho State Journal readers said they wanted more outdoors reporting. To improve reader satisfaction, we at the Journal have striven to make our outdoor reporting a top priority. Not only have we expanded our outdoors section in the newspaper to twice a week (Tuesdays and Fridays), we have also launched a new website called xtremeidaho.com. The website will be focused entirely on the reporting of the who, what, where, when and why of outdoors in Idaho, western Wyoming, southern Montana and northern Utah. No matter what your outdoor lifestyle is, there’s something for you at xtremeidaho.com. Why did we pick the name Xtreme Idaho? Simply put, Idaho outdoors is extreme. In this state, you can hunt trophy animals that hunters in the other states could only dream about. The skiing and snowboarding around these parts are some of the best in the world. Fishing world records are constantly being broken here. The mountains in the area make for some of the most physically challenging cycling/hiking/ climbing you will ever experience. Plus, some of the world’s most renowned and pristine national parks are within a stone’s throw away. If you like the outdoors, there’s really no better place to be than in Idaho. I hope you enjoy this first edition of our magazine. Be sure to check in on us at xtremeidaho.com and like our Facebook and Twitter pages. You can also check out our twice-weekly outdoors section in the Idaho State Journal on Tuesdays and Fridays. We are always looking for story ideas and technical expertise from our readers, so feel free to reach out to us at (208) 239-3133 or news@xtremeidaho.com. Happy riding! Sincerely, David Ashby Outdoors Editor Idaho State Journal 4 ~ Idaho State Journal ~ spring edition 2014 ~ xtreme idaho
www.xtremeidaho.com
lunGS: Because cycling is an intense
aerobic exercise, lung capacity will improve. A study conducted by Imperial College London found that bike riders inhale far less noxious fumes then those who travel exclusively in automobiles, meaning less air pollution that is inhaled.
BRAin: A study conducted in Japan showed that cycling can lead to an overall improved mental well-being, including being able to focus clearer, sleep better, be more creative and a have happier outlook on life.
Health Benefits of CyClinG fACe: Scientists at Stanford University discovered that cycling can decrease the signs of aging and protect the skin from the harmful effects of UV radiation from the sun.
WAiStline: You can burn a lot of calories in a
short amount of time participating in cycling activities, meaning a smaller waistline and a lower body weight. This lowers your risk of obesity-related diseases like heart attacks, strokes and diabetes.
HeARt: Cycling improves overall cardiovascular fitness and decreases the likelihood of heart disease.
tHiGHS, ButtoCkS, & CAlveS:
Cycling greatly increases muscle tone, especially in the lower body. It is also a great low-impact aerobic activity for those who have joint problems in the knees, ankles or hips.
HAnDS AnD feet: Pedaling with your feet while controlling the bike with your hands, arms and shoulders greatly improves your balance and coordination. This improved coordination can be helpful if you participate in other sports.
immune SyStem: Studies
have shown that cycling can decrease the risk of cancer, improving cell function to fight off tumors.
May 26 – Bear Lake Monster Half Marathon. 13.1 Mile with bite on dirt roads and 1,200 feet of vertical gain and descent. The region’s toughest half marathon.
June 13 & 14 – Bear Lake Marathon. Friday marathon & half marathon in Idaho, Saturday marathon, half marathon, 10K & 5K in Utah. Run both marathons for a special prize.
June 21 – Bear Lake Monster Century. Road bike tour through the scenic Bear Lake Valley. Soak in the hot springs when you’re done. 75 & 50 Mile options, too!
Sept. 1 – Bear Lake Monster Half Marathon. A repeat of our spring race but with fall colors. Run both and test your time!
Sept. 20 – Bear Lake Monster Cross. 80 miles of dirt roads and knobby tires. Tour the Bear Lake Valley by bike in a way you never imagined.
xtreme idaho ~ spring edition 2014 ~ Idaho State Journal ~ 5
Getting Started A few tips from the pros on getting started in mountain biking
4AlWAyS WeAR A Helmet
With any type of bike riding, especially in rough terrain, a helmet is an absolute must for protection from head injuries. According to the group Helmets on Heads, an organization devoted to educating bike riders on the importance of wearing protective head gear, nearly 75 percent of all fatal bicycle crashes involve head injuries.
4 mAke SuRe you HAve
tHe Bike tHAt fitS youR SiZe
Bike riders come in all different shapes and sizes, and each person needs the perfectly-sized bike. “You need to make sure you have the bike that fits your style of riding,” said Dave Wilding, owner of Dave’s Bike Shop in Idaho Falls. “If it doesn’t fit, you won’t be one with your bike.” Wilding also recommends buying bikes from small stores staffed with experienced bikers. Unlike many big box stores that offer one-size-fits-all bikes, the smaller, independently-owned bike shops are better equipped to provide better customer service, he says.
4AlWAyS CARRy A tiRe RePAiR kit
In every bicycle enthusiast’s life, the burden of a flat tire will rear its ugly head. There are a large number of small, highly portable repair kits filled with patches, rubber cement and portable pumps to fix any flats that may come your way.
4HAve tHe RiGHt WHeel SiZe
For most downhill mountain bikers, the gold standard for wheel diameter size has usually been 26 inches. The 29-inch wheel has been popular with cross-country mountain biking due to its increased durability. In recent years, manufacturers have started to make the 27.5 inch wheel, which combines the durability of the 29-incher and the smooth ride of a 26-incher.
4DReSS foR SuCCeSS
6 ~ Idaho State Journal ~ spring edition 2014 ~ xtreme idaho
Dressing appropriately can make or break a mountain biking trip. The following articles of clothing are essential for any mountain biking trip: 1) Tops and shorts: From sweating to riding through puddles to encountering a sudden rainstorm, keeping dry is crucial. Most biking shirts and shorts are manufactured with special fabrics designed to keep you dry by wicking away moisture and wetness. 2) Gloves: When a bike crash occurs, the immediate instinct is to throw your hands forward. Special biking gloves have reinforced padding in the finger and knuckle areas to cushion the blow. 3) Sunglasses: Glasses provide protection from both the beaming sun rays and debris flying into your face. Plus, many have interchangeable lenses, depending on the intensity of the sunlight.
4AlWAyS CARRy A fiRSt AiD kit
When biking in the rugged mountains of Idaho, cuts and bruises are inevitable. A simple first aid kit can ensure any wounds are treated immediately and do not become infected later.
4CHAnGe GeARS CoRReCtly
Bikes have multiple gear settings that can increase or decrease the amount of resistance on the pedals. Lower gears allow the biker to pedal at a fast cadence, while higher gears allow the rider to climb up large slopes more efficiently. If the gears are not switched over correctly, it can cause excessive wear on the chain rings and cassette gears. To change gears without causing wear and tear, you should: 1) Keep pedaling while shifting gears 2) Shift one gear at a time 3) Make sure you shift before you encounter an obstacle, like an ascending hillside or pot holes on the trail.
4Get tune-uPS
Like an automobile, a bike needs regular tune-ups. The tune-ups should include brake systems, tire, cable, and drive train inspections to ensure the bike is in complete working order. Plus, a regular tune-up will help keep the bike’s brake pads and gears free of dirt.
4mAke SuRe you’Re HyDRAteD
Like any heavily-aerobic exercise, proper hydration is key to success. The average adult body consists of around 60 percent water. Losing two percent of your body’s water weight through perspiration can result in a 15 percent loss of total power. Without sufficient water, there can be dangerous health consequences, including muscle cramping or heat stroke.
4 Bike WitH fRienDS
AnD mAke SuRe you tell Someone WHeRe you’ll Be
“Even if you’re a pro and you know your way around the mountains, it doesn’t help if your leg is broken and nobody knows where you’re at,” said Brent Page, of Bill’s Bike Shop in Idaho Falls. Some biking enthusiasts can ride up to 20 miles or more in a single run. In Idaho, many of the trails are in extremely isolated spots. For safety purposes, it is important to let someone know where you will be in the case of a serious accident. Biking with a group of friends also ensures that help will arrive as quick as possible if an injury occurs. xTreme
RiDe SAfely!
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233-3051 www.blackswaninn.com
Destinations Inn 295 W. Broadway, Idaho Falls
528-8444 www.destinationsinn.com
xtreme idaho ~ spring edition 2014 ~ Idaho State Journal ~ 7
Getting Started How to get started with the right gear
ootball players have their protection pads. Baseball players have their mitts. In every sport, certain gear is required to ensure success. Before embarking on an extensive ride through the mountains for the first time, be sure you’re covered by investing in the following items:
fiRSt AiD kit
When biking in the rugged mountains of Idaho, cuts and bruises are inevitable. A good “crash pack� should include not only band-aids, gauze and tape, but also sunscreen lotion and antibiotic cream. When biking in western states like Idaho, a rattlesnake anti-venom kit is also a good idea to bring along.
liGHtS
When the sun goes down, you could potentially find yourself in a dangerous situation in the mountains if you do not have adequate lighting. Some lights are designed to strap to the frame of the bike, while others can be attached to your helmet. The best lighting systems should be lightweight, durable for muddy conditions, and provide hours of light. Some low-end lights can be purchased for around $20-$30, but the high-end model can run around $500.
tiRe RePAiR kit
A good repair kit should include patches, a small tool kit, extra valve caps, rubber cement, plastic tire levers and a small pump. Some of the pros even carry small CO2 canisters that immediately inflate the tire. A tire repair kit can also prevent you from being stranded in the middle of the wilderness.
8 ~ Idaho State Journal ~ spring edition 2014 ~ xtreme idaho
BeAR BellS AnD SPRAyS
Like crashing, flat tires, and poor hydration, another problem bikers could encounter is bears while riding in the wilderness. Bear deterrent spray for protection can be purchased at many hunting and bike shops. For a more affordable option, there are also bear bells on the market that attach to the bike and make a ringing noise to alert bears of your presence.
HelmetS
A good helmet should have vents to radiate heat and sweat, but should be light enough that it doesn’t distract from the riding. A ski or snowboarding helmet will not suffice, however, as they are not interchangeable and are not designed to handle the same type of impact. It is also crucial to replace a helmet once it is involved in a crash, as the helmet may not provide the same cranial protection as before.
HyDRAtion SyStemS
The pros recommend bringing as much water as you can safely carry when out on a ride, including multiple water bottles filled with H20. With a little extra money ($30 to over $100), there are even special water hydration systems that can be attached to the bike’s frame, used as a backpack, or can be worn as a belt. The more expensive systems even come equipped with a cooling system to keep the water cold.
233 North Main Street, Suite B, Old Town Pocatello
Bike SHoRtS
“Most people think bike seats are uncomfortable,” said Cindy Croft Napier, of Idaho Mountain Trading in Idaho Falls, “and that’s where bike shorts come in.” The best bike shorts have special padding in the seat for a more comfortable ride and are made with a soft, stretchable and breathable material that wicks away sweat and moisture.
GloveS
If you fall from a bike in the event of a crash, your first instinct is to throw your arms forward to cushion the hit on the ground. A good pair of mountain biking gloves will not only save your hands from more extensive injuries, they will help provide an better riding experience overall. The best gloves should be manufactured with a light, breathable material that can be washed easily. They should also grippers on the fingertips for better brake lever control and should have extra padding in the knuckle area. xTreme
64 North Pine Street, Blackfoot
xtreme idaho ~ spring edition 2014 ~ Idaho State Journal ~ 9
overview of
gear
for the Advanced Bike enthusiast Trail PhoTos by Ed GyGli
DRoPPeR SeAtPoStS:
I
n the old days, adjusting the height of the bike saddle while en route required the rider to slow down or stop and get off the bike entirely. Then, the saddle’s height had to be manually adjusted through a release on the post. For a racer, slowing down or stopping to adjust your gear is unrealistic. Now, dropper seatposts are available, which allow the rider to adjust the height of the seat through a button or switch attached near the
Helping you get back on the trail Dr. Stephen Hansen Dr. Steven Coker
IDAHO ORTHOPAEDIC & SPORTS CLINIC, P.A.
208.234.1960 560 Memorial Dr Pocatello, ID
• iWalk-ins 2www.idaortho.com 34-1960 www. daorthowelcome .com • ISU Team Physicians
handlebars using super-smooth hydraulic technology. This way, if a biker is heading downhill and is about to encounter difficult terrain, the adjustment can be made as the cyclist goes along. The price of a dropper seatpost can begin at around $150.
CliPleSS PeDAlS AnD CyClinG SHoeS
To improve your pedaling power and provide more support for your feet, installing clipless pedals onto your bike can be a worthwhile investment. To use clipless pedals, you bolt special cleats to a pair of cycling shoes. These cleats snap into the pedals, allowing your feet to be locked in. Brent Page, of Bill’s Bike Shop in Idaho Falls, says, “You’ll get a lot better power. It’s good when you are on rugged terrain, because you can focus entirely on riding and not worry about losing your footing.” Clipless pedals can start at about $30, while cycling shoes can start at about $50. Southeast Idaho’s Largest Used Volume Dealer!
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GPS WAtCHeS
Because mountain biking can take you to places that are off the map, a GPS will ensure that you make it home. Companies like Garmin©, Timex© and TomTom© manufacture an extensive line of waterresistent wristwatches that allow you to enter waypoints and trackpoints, so navigation from one point to the next is easy. Many of the watches on the market also include stopwatch capabilities, distance traveled measurements, calorie counters, a compass, pace measurements, and temperature and barometer gauges. Though some of these watches can cost around $80 to $400, they can be used interchangeably with numerous to capture remarkable point-of-view (POV) video images. sporting activities, including hiking, hunting or jogging. Attaching a GoPro onto a mountain bike or a helmet while you ride through tough and difficult terrain makes for both a unique document of your riding experience, as well as GoPRo CAmeRAS a compelling YouTube video. One of the most recently What makes the durable and released cameras is the HERO3+: Black Edition, which has lightweight GoPro© cameras different a 30 percent longer battery life and more extensive wide from their competitors is the ability angle perspectives. Though this camera costs about $400, to mount them onto unusual places there are plenty of less expensive GoPro cameras on the such as cars, snowmobiles and planes. This allows the user market. Mounts for the camera start at around $20. xTreme
“We do not inherit the earth from our ancestors; We borrow it from our children.”
- Chief Seattle
420 South 4th Avenue Pocatello, ID 83201 www.sundance-inc.net
YOU GOT IT! 559 S. 5th Street • 208-235-1311 • Pocatello xtreme idaho ~ spring edition 2014 ~ Idaho State Journal ~ 11
d e t a i l i f f A g n i l c y C A US iDAHo
Bob’s Bicycles Cycling Club Boise, Idaho Contact: (208) 322-8042 Boise Cycling Club Boise, Idaho Contact: (208) 343-3782 Boise VeloWomen Boise, Idaho Contact: (208) 345-2141 BYrDS (Boise Young rider Dev Squad) Boise, Idaho Contact: (208) 890-3585 eastside Cycles-Idaho Boise, Idaho Contact: (208) 344-3005 GS Casella Boise, Idaho Contact: (208) 340-7224 Intermountain Cycling Organization, Boise, Idaho Contact: Rudy Estrada, (208) 713-3705 Lactic Acid Cycling Boise, Idaho Contact: (208) 866-7428 www.lacticacidcycling.org Look! Save A Life Boise, Idaho Contact: (208) 761-5894
Pho t o by Ed GyGli
Lost river Cycling Club Boise, Idaho Contact: (208) 890-3118, www.lostrivercycling.org Operation Cycle Boise Boise, Idaho Contact: Kai Applequist, (208) 724-5543 Pro Leisure Boise, Idaho Contact: Tom Flynn, (818) 632-8753, www.proleisureracing.wordpress.com Southwest Idaho Cycling Association Boise, Idaho Contact: (208) 890-3118, www.idahobikeracing.org TeAm CLIF BAr Cycling Boise, Idaho Contact: (510) 847-4068, www.clifbar.com/play/team_clif Team Dobbiaco Boise, Idaho Contact: Vernon Padaca, (208) 794-0439, www.teamdobbiaco.com Team rhino rush Boise, Idaho Contact: Joe Gallegos, (208) 599-2756
12 ~ Idaho State Journal ~ spring edition 2014 ~ xtreme idaho
Treasure Valley Cycling Club Boise, Idaho Contact: Ladd Williamson, (208) 695-6539, www.treasurevalleycycling.com TWeNTY16 Pro Cycling Boise, Idaho Contact: (415) 246-8791, www.teamtwenty16.com Wild rockies Inc. Boise, Idaho Contact: (208) 388-1971, www.wildrockiesracing.com 4th Street Cycling Club Coeur d’Alene, Idaho Contact: (208) 667-8969, www.bicycleservice.com Two Wheeler/Specialized Couer d’Alene, Idaho Contact: (208) 765-0214 Team Bill’s Bike & run Idaho Falls, Idaho Contact: (208) 522-3341
Palouse Bicycle racing Moscow, Idaho Contact: (208) 596-2533 University of Idaho Moscow, Idaho Contact: (208) 596-2533, www.webpages.uidaho.edu/ uicycling Broken Spoke Cycling Nampa, Idaho Contact: Hal Miller, (208) 869-6008, www.brokenspokecycling.org rolling H Cycles Nampa, Idaho Contact: Adam Haynes, (208) 466-7655, www.rollingcycles.com Idaho Cycling enthusiasts Pocatello, Idaho Contact: www.idahocycling.com Idaho State University Pocatello, Idaho Contact: (208) 282-4854
Snake river mountain Bike Club Idaho Falls, Idaho Salmon mountain Contact: (208) 351-7356 Bike Association Salmon, Idaho Durance-Colnago Contact: david Lingle, Ketchum, Idaho (208) 756-7529, Contact: (208) 726-7693, www.ridesalmon.com/simba www.durance.com
WyominG ragged edge Sports Casper, Wyoming Contact: Roy Buck, (307) 237-5560
Bicycle Station Cheyenne, Wyoming Contact: Travis Kolbo, (307) 634-4268, www.bicyclestation.com Spradley Barr Wind Chill Cycling Cheyenne, Wyoming Contact: (307) 631-6182, www.windchillcycling.com University of Wyoming Laramie, Wyoming Contact: (307) 766-6396 Team Jackson Hole Wilson, Wyoming Contact: Jim Verdone, (307) 690-0214, www.teamjacksonhole.com Bountiful mazda Cycling Team Bountiful, Utah Contact: Michael Macdonald, (801) 397-0277 Canyon Bicycles – Shimano draper, Utah Contact: (801) 576-8844
Gem Cutters Holladay, Utah Contact: (801) 277-4968 America First Credit Union Cycling Team Kaysville, Utah Contact: Zach Chatelain, (801) 544-5300 Golden Spike Cycling Kaysville, Utah Contact: Scott W Morrison, (801) 647-5814 epic events Inc. Layton, Utah Contact: (801) 546-0090, www.lotojaclassic.com A Bloc Cycling Lehi, Utah Contact: Travis Millward, (801) 800-3279, www.utahcadence.com
Cicada racing Inc. p/b mark miller Subaru Midvale, Utah Contact: Trent Watkins, (801) 651-7564, www.icadacycling.com Utah Cycling Association Ogden, Utah Contact: (801) 476-9476, www.cycleutah.com mountain View Sports medicine Ogden, Utah Contact: Chad Coles, (801) 475-5683, www.mountainviewsportsmedicine.com Ogden Cycling education Foundation Ogden, Utah Contact: Brian Petersen, (801) 625-9250 SBr Cycles Orem, Utah Contact: Allan Sumnall, (801) 225-0076 www.sbrutah.com
Adobe Cycling Lehi, Utah Contact: Ben Rabner, (801) 592-8320, www.facebook.com/adobecyclingclub Utah Valley University Orem, Utah Utah State University Contact: (801) 863-8608 Logan, Utah Contact: www.usu.edu/camprec/ Summit Utah Devo htm/clubsports/cycling Park City, Utah Contact: (801) 664-6351, www.summitbikeclub.org
Team Testa – mountain Velo Park City, Utah Contact: Tim Bochnowski, (435) 901-8356, www.mountainvelo.com
K4 racing Salt Lake City, Utah Contact: Kemille Garvin, (801) 916-8027
The x-men Park City, Utah Contact: (435) 901-1752, www.x-mencyclingteam.com
miDuole Salt Lake City, Utah Contact: Jim Morgan, (801) 355-0200 www.miduole.com
LiVe Well p/b Bountiful Bicycle Pleasant View, Utah Contact: (801) 721-6952, www.teamintermountainlivewell.org
Porcupine Cycling Salt Lake City, Utah Contact: (801) 424-9216, www.porcupinecycling.com
AtTask Canyon Bicycles Riverton, Utah Contact: Lance Gamero, (801) 793-0917
rocky mountain Cycling Club Salt Lake City, Utah Contact: Erik Harrington, (801) 231-4874, www.rmcc-utah.blogspot.com
Infinite Cycles Riverton, Utah Contact: Brad Rowberry, (801) 523-8268, www.infinitecycles.com experticity Salt Lake City, Utah Contact: Jessica Morris, (801) 869-6085 Go-ride.com Salt Lake City, Utah Contact: Scott Crabill, (801) 474-0081 www.go-ride.com
Salt Lake City Cycling (SLCC) Salt Lake City, Utah Contact: (801) 278-1500, www.millcreekbicycles.com SaltCycle – Intelitechs Salt Lake City, Utah Contact: Tom Millar, (801) 698-4290, www.saltcycleteam.tumblr.com Ski Utah/Plan 7 Salt Lake City, Utah Contact: Bill Cutting, (801) 583-8208, www.skiutahcycling.com
Team endurance 360 Salt Lake City, Utah Contact: Cameron Hoffman, (801) 668-7648 www.902sports.com This is the Pace Cycling Club Salt Lake City, Utah Contact: Kelly J Jones, (801) 916-2223 University of Utah Salt Lake City, Utah Contact: Mitchell Peterson, (801) 414-6820, www.utahcycling.org Velosport racing Salt Lake City, Utah Contact: (801) 230-5904 Logan race Club Smithfield, Utah Contact: Kirk Eck, (435) 563-6489, www.loganraceclub.org Salt Lake Community College South Jordan, Utah Contact: Zach Kastelic, (801) 842-8670 Bountiful Bicycle racing Woods Cross, Utah Contact: Taylor Felt, (801) 295-6711, www.bountifulbicycle.com xTreme
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nationalguard.com xtreme idaho ~ spring edition 2014 ~ Idaho State Journal ~ 13
Idaho Falls AttemPtinG to BuilD mountAin Bike PARk
By Zach Roddy for the Journal
T
he Idaho Falls Parks and Recreation Commission and Alan Crockett, a retired mountain biking enthusiast, are advocating for the construction of a 760-acre mountain bike park that would be located north of Russet Noise Park and above a block of land managed by the National Guard. While the Idaho Falls Parks and Recreation Commission has recommended going forward with the project, approval from the city council is still needed. If the city approves the proposal, a Recreation and Public
Purposes lease application will be submitted to the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) for a 25-year lease. The city would be able to apply to patent the land after about 5 years. Once the BLM receives the application, the two-year legal process and preparations for the environmental assessment will begin. Upon BLM approval of the lease, the city would be free to develop the bike park as planned in the detailed conceptual design. The design was first revealed to the public on April 9 at a public forum on the Connecting our Community Plans. Jeremy Casterson of the BLM released this statement regarding the idea of a bike park: “The Upper Snake Field
14 ~ Idaho State Journal ~ spring edition 2014 ~ xtreme idaho
Office (USFO) of the BLM finds your idea intriguing. It is a goal of our recreation program to foster recreation opportunities for the communities we serve. Developing a bike park close to town helps achieve that goal. That being said, it is our responsibility to progress through our public processes to ensure our regulatory obligations are met and every voice in the community is heard. I don’t have any statements from the city although there is a preliminary conceptual design study which has yet to be revealed to the public.” Crockett, who is on the Idaho Recreational Trails Program (RTP) grant review committee, has been the pioneer of the
project. After his neighbor introduced him to the area located only a couple of miles from his home, he met with BLM and talked with local bike dealers and clubs, as well as Greg Weitzel, the Director of Idaho Falls Parks and Recreation. “WHile mAinly A Bike PARk, tHe AReA tRAilS WoulD Be GReAt foR CRoSS CountRy RunninG AnD PoSSiBle WinteR ACtivitieS if tHeRe iS enouGH SnoW.” ~ Alan Crockett “Everyone seemed to think it was a good idea,” Crockett said. “We had a club ride on the site and people started riding the existing roads following a GPS map I made of the roads. Eventually I was able to contact all of the Parks and Recreation Commission members via email and then made a presentation to
the more you know about your doctor, the better your experience will be. comes to a colonoscopy, When it comesWhen to a itcolonoscopy, the more you know about your doctor, the more you know about your doctor, the better your experience will be. the better your experience will be. them in early November where they recommended proceeding with the project.” While Crockett and other offroad bikers are still a long ways away from getting the bike park approved, costs going forward are relatively inexpensive. The lease application only costs $100 and there are no other additional fees for the land. In addition, Crockett anticipates that the city, corporate sponsors, bike clubs and other vested individuals would contribute to the project. There would also be available grants to apply for. Crockett anticipates that You to be if the park decided is built that some
of the existing roads will be construct a pump track, slalom Riding would be able to conimproved for biking and 15 course or skills area but that tinue well into the fall season to 20 miles of trails will be will require access to water, and possibly through November constructed. He described the which will need to be resolved. depending on the weather. The it comes to awould colonoscopy, proposed land as a great space While mainlyWhen a bike park, the park prevent Idaho Falls thewould more you for know about for all skill level riders with area’s trails be great natives fromyour havingdoctor, to travel some easier trails, but also one cross country running and to Pocatello, which has a long the better your experience will be. that could feature more difpossible winter activities if cold season itself. ficult diversions and returns. there is enough snow.” As of today, the project “Currently the area is open Crockett compared Idaho remains in the hands of the to grazing for a six-week Falls Boise’s foothills BLM and the city of Idaho Don’ttoHesitate to Ask. and period in the spring,” Crockett Pocatello’s City Creek and ask these Falls for approval and to To get the best care, you should important You decided to be questions of thecomparison physician performing your the proper protocol is said. “While the land provides rendered the not ensure colonoscopy: poor grazing, it for is heavily of one in the first place. met. However, the potential Hesitate to Ask. screened colon Don’tmuch To getHe the sees besttraining care, you should theseopimportant grazed for a short period to the park as aask great the Idaho Falls area having What in colonoscopy didof you You decided tohave be a questions of the physician your cancer force the cowsand to eat the weeds portunity it has been its own recreational bike park receive? becauseperforming colonoscopy: screened forfire colon A Board certified completed and reduce the hazard. dry for most of gastroenterologist March 2014, has within eight miles of downcolonoscopy. Don’t Hesitate to Ask.What3training inKelly colonoscopy did you after years of internal medicine training medical After a trail system is estabwhile the Canyon was town would be a great asset to cancer have a you should To getand the best care, ask these important receive? school, followed by an additional 2 to 3recreation years of enthusiasts. xTreme lished, it may be possible to still under several feet of snow. Board certifiedyour gastroenterologist has completed questions of the physicianAperforming
When it comes to a colonoscopy, the more you know about your doct the better your experience will be
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A properly equipped facility is important Where do you perform colonoscopy? school, followed by an additional 2 to 3 years of compared to non-specialist physicians performing Pocatello, ID 83201 cancer and have a Recentthe studies have concluded thatBldg a fully trained subspecialty training focused exclusively onso ask where Pocatello, ID 83201 Thomas Davis, D.O.receive? colonoscopy. to your well being, teststudies will be done. 1151 Hospital Way, A,that Congratulations. best experience. Recent have concluded aAmbulatory fully trainedsurgery centers and hospitals A Board certified diseasesgastroenterologist and endoscopy. has completed gastroenterologist isPocatello, much more likely to adhere ID 83201 meetstudies Medicare guidelines outpatient proc colonoscopy. Charles Evans, M.D.3digestive Recent have concluded that for a fully trained (208) 232 6616 gastroenterologist is much more likely to adhere yearsmany of internal medicine training after medical How colonoscopies have you Essential Qualifications Ensure frequency for follow-up colonoscopy stated Some gastroenterologists’ (208) 232 6616 to theHelp gastroenterologist is much more likelyoffices to adherealso meet followed by an additional (208) 232 6616 But all colonoscopies school, performed in the past year? 2 to 3 years of to the frequency for follow-up colonoscopy stated tostandards. the frequencyA forproperly follow-up colonoscopy by national guidelines, and much less likely to bring www.seigastro.com Darryl Cook, M.D. Quality Your Peace of Mind equipped stated facility is im subspecialty training focusedand exclusively Most full-time gastroenterologists will do on over Congratulations. guidelines, andso much likely tothe bring www.seigastro.com byback national guidelines, and much lessbylikely bring www.seigastro.com are not created equal. digestive patients too times soon forless follow-up colonoscopies. Thomas Davis, D.O. tonational yourtowell being, askless where test will b 500 colonoscopies inMembers a year. Ifof the answer is aare more diseases and endoscopy. Gastroenterologists than five patients back too soon for follow-up colonoscopies. Membersfor of follow-up colonoscopies. much smaller number, youof may want to explore patients back too soon Charles Evans, M.D. American College Gastroenterology By asking a few likely to miss colorectal cancer during colonoscopy Members of American College of Gastroenterology How many colonoscopies have you Essential Qualifications Help Ensure other providers. American College of But all colonoscopies incompared the past year? toGastroenterology non-specialist physicians performing xtreme idaho ~ spring Quality and Your Peace of Mind important questions, performed How many complications? edition 2014 ~ Idaho State Journal ~ 15 Most full-time gastroenterologists will do over Experience off. The more times you do someGastroenterologists are more than five tim 1151 Hospital Way, Bldg A, payscolonoscopy. are not created equal.
Get Out & Enjoy the Local Trails! 16 ~ Idaho State Journal ~ spring edition 2014 ~ xtreme idaho
xtreme idaho ~ spring edition 2014 ~ Idaho State Journal ~ 17
C
Many Trail Opportunities in the Greater Pocatello Area Burger perfection. Bacon Clubhouse Burger
Roll with
by Bruce Olenick ity Creek – More formally called the City Creek Management Area (CCMA), this complex contains approximately 50 miles of exceptional hiking and riding trails within the Pocatello city limits. Managed by the city, this fantastic resource is utilized by hikers, horseback riders, mountain bikers and off-road vehicles. Comprised of approximately 3,000 acres, the CCMA focuses on providing exceptional recreational opportunities for the public as well as protecting the natural features of the City Creek Watershed. This trail system is primarily accessed from three trailheads located at the end of the paved portion of City Creek Road, South Grant Avenue across from Centennial Park, and at the end of Fore Road. This trail system provides a diverse and beautiful riding experience from aspen groves, riparian thickets, subalpine fields, and rollercoaster meanderings. GiBSon JACk – Offering a choice of three long, single-track excursions from the trailhead at the end of Gibson Jack Road, Gibson Jack is a popular destination for hikers and bikers alike on US Forest Service Property. The southern Dry Creek arm offers connections to the West Fork Trail complex (see below) and Slate Mountain. The main Gibson Jack Creek trail segment also connects to the West Fork of Mink Creek via Elk Meadows, and offers challenging hill and boulder climbs. Finally, the new Sterling Justice Trail affords a northerly connection to the City Creek trail complex (see above) while providing a spectacular vista of the Portneuf Valley and the cities of Pocatello and Chubbuck from 6,000 feet. This new connector creates an epic ride…one can travel along spectacular single-track for 50 miles from City Creek to the top of Scout Mountain! WeSt foRk mink CReek, CRyStAl Summit, CoRRAl CReek – This trail complex is made up of a combination of double-track and single-track trails that are a favorite of horseback riders and hikers. Traveling up the wondering sections of the West Fork of Mink Creek, this non-motorized section of old double-track travels through Elk Meadows and connects to a circular loop of summer/ winter trails at the top of Crystal Summit. Each trailhead for West Fork, Corral Creek and Crystal can be found on the north side of Mink Creek Road as you travel up the divide to Arbon Valley.
SCout mountAin (eASt foRk mink CReek, vAlve HouSe, CReStline) – This area of US Forest Service land contains miles of single and double-track trails which climb to the summit of Scout Mountain, the tallest in the Bannock Range. The Valve House trailhead begins opposite of the West Fork trailhead on Mink Creek Road. This trail connects to several other single and double-tracks, culminating at the East Fork Mink Creek Trail, which circumvents the west side of Scout Mountain. Trails such as Blind Springs, Windago, and Box Canyon all connect to this system from the west side of the Mountain. The East Fork Trail eventually makes its way to the southern approach to Scout Mountain, where a 1011 So 5th Ave rider can elect to take the double-track road to the summit. Or continue around the east side of Scout Mountain via the Crestline Locally Owned and Operated Trail, which eventually dumps out onto East Fork Road. This Mike & Mary Johnson system can be accessed from the campground/picnic area at
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18 ~ Idaho State Journal ~ spring edition 2014 ~ xtreme idaho
Justice Park or from the various trailheads on the south side of Mink Creek and South Mink Creek Roads.
the end of Pocatello Creek Road connecting various single- and double-tracks to Moonlight Mine.
eASt BenCH – Opportunities abound for hiking and riding along Pocatello’s East Bench. Fun, flowy, single-track can be had beginning at the east edge of the Highland or Summit Hills subdivisions. Additionally, the BLM trailhead located at the end of Barton Road provides access to the long, double-track grind to the top of Chinese Peak. From there, a rider has a choice of diving off the back side to emerge on Beehive Road in the Buckskin Drainage or travel over to Blackrock Canyon along the spine of the Pocatello Range. Additional riding is available at
BounDARy tRAil – Traveling along the west, south and east sides of the Portneuf Range, this old motorcycle single-track provides a challenging epic hike/ride across mountainous arid terrain. This trail is technically challenging since the traverse involves circumventing boulders and slate-rock through much of its course. Combine this with some intense climbs and drops and a few stream/spring crossings and you have an all-day, heart pumping marathon. The northerly connector between the west and east side of the Range typically involves travel through Inman Pass or Inkom Pass. xTreme
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http://pocatelloorthopaedics.net xtreme idaho ~ spring edition 2014 ~ Idaho State Journal ~ 19
The Great Dig uleAn effoRt to BuilD SteRlinG JuStiCe tRAil
HeRC volunteeRS RefleCt on
P
OCATELLO — The volunteers who built the Sterling Justice connector chose to locate their third switchback at the heart of a boulder field, requiring a few hundred hours of extra work simply to make the trail a bit more interesting. Seeing no need for shortcuts, they also turned down the U.S. Forest Service’s offer to bring in a professional explosives crew. With pick axes and shovels, they converted the rock barrier into a landmark feature a broad turn encompassed by a stone wall of such fine craftsmanship as to resemble the work of a Roosevelt-era program. The Sterling Justice trail, named to honor a former Eastern Idaho Forest Service district ranger, ties together the major local trail systems (City Creek and Gibson Jack) that connect to the broader Mink Creek Area of the Caribou National Forest. Participants
in the mammoth construction endeavor believe it demonstrates what can be accomplished when a community unites behind a common goal and won’t settle for less than the ideal. The connector, which covers seven miles, with steep climbs at both ends and a long stretch along a ridge overlooking the surrounding mountains, was finished last summer. “We wanted to show the Forest Service we can make a non-motorized trail with just volunteer labor and without the money that they say it takes to get it done,” said trail builder Corey Wight. Thanks to an understanding wife and the flexibility of being his own boss as owner of Sand Trap Bar & Grill, Wight spent countless early mornings working with trail crews or digging alone. “At the peak, a lot of guys were putting in 20 hours a week. There were a couple of times I was putting in 30 hours,” Wight said. From its City Creek side, Sterling Justice can be accessed by following Cusick Creek Road
Sterling Justice trail overlook elevation ~ 6100’ established 2013
20 ~ Idaho State Journal ~ spring edition 2014 ~ xtreme idaho
“
Typically when the Forest Service has a project we have to come up with funding and a way to maintain it. This was a very non-traditional way to construct and maintain a trail.
“
By John O’Connell For the Idaho State Journal
~ Jeff Hammers, district ranger Caribou National Forest’s Westside Ranger District up a steep hill. Then keep right after its crossing with Cusick Creek and continue for about 100 yards beyond the entrance to the Over the Top trail. The other access point meets the non-motorized branch of Gibson Jack about a mile from the Gibson Jack trailhead. The idea for a connector was proposed in 2007 by local attorney David Maguire, explained Jeff Hammes, district ranger of the Caribou National Forest’s Westside Ranger District. The concept gained momentum when it was identified as a priority of a City Creek management plan devised by a broad-based group of trail users and community leaders.
“I said I would only consider a new trail route if the City Creek users group agreed to police and build and maintain the new trail,” Hammes said. “We developed a cooperative agreement that stated they would construct and maintain it and basically take care of it.” An environmental assessment for the trail commenced in 2011, and construction started in the spring of 2012. Funding for materials, tools and the use of a trail cat to build a stretch of the Gibson Jack side came from an Idaho State Department of Parks and Recreation grant. As a condition of the grant, Hammes had to track volunteer hours. He estimated local trail build-
hikers whom they’d never met joined their cause along with some mothers who took turns shuttling each other’s children from school to free one another for trail building. Barrie Hunt, owner of Barrie’s Ski & Sports, recruited Boy Scouts in need of service hours. Butterfield, who averaged about four days a week of work on the trail from October through December of 2012, believes a Facebook page established for Pocatello trail users by Richard Newcomb, and the presence of a few key builders who were consistently out working, helped keep the project coordinated. Travis Kumm recalls wearing a headlamp on many weeknights to continue digging well after sunset. “I was blown away at how quick some of this stuff was getting done. I think there were people out building this trail 18 hours out of a day,” Kumm said. Heath Mann, owner of Mountain Mann Bicycles, has noticed a dramatic increase in out-of-town license plates at the City Creek trailhead and believes new loops made possible by Sterling Justice should make the local trail system even more attractive, benefiting local business owners. “If it’s marketed right, we can become a destination biking community, much like Moab, Utah,” Mann said. Ed Gygli, a retired Idaho State Police captain who led a Wednesday night trail work
“
From start to finish, when one goes up to Sterling Justice, they will see the tons and tons of earth and rock that were sculpted and moved by hand so (the trail) would shed water properly, without erosion. ~ Ed Gygli crew, noted hundreds of volunteers helped build Sterling Justice and will forever claim ownership of this new “crown jewel” for the community. “From start to finish, when one goes up to Sterling Justice, they will see the tons and tons of earth and rock that
“
ers donated more than 3,000 hours in labor. “Typically when the Forest Service has a project we have to come up with funding and a way to maintain it. This was a very non-traditional way to construct and maintain a trail,” Hammes said. “I couldn’t believe the quality of trail that these guys did. The Forest Service has trail standards they had to meet. They exceeded them.” Throughout the winter, Hammes said cross country skiers utilized Sterling Justice. And the course of this spring’s Scout Mountain Ultra Trail Event, formerly the Pocatello 50 Ultra Marathon, has been revised to take advantage of the new connector. It passes through sage brush steppes, pockets of deciduous forest and even some Douglas fir groves. The western ridge of the trail is closely monitored each spring by superstitious gardeners, who believe it’s time to plant when the snowpack on a certain slope recedes to form a number seven. Hammes said local outdoorsman Bruce Olenick intends to erect a sign this summer at one of the trail’s grandest vistas identifying some of the area’s major mountains. The project started with a small group of laborers, including Wight and Ryon Butterfield. Shortly thereafter, Mike Sullivan joined the core group, and as Butterfield recalls, “As it gained momentum, people came out of the woodwork.” In addition to the mountain bikers, runners and
were sculpted and moved by hand so (the trail) would shed water properly, without erosion,” Gygli said. “The builders spent thousands and thousands of hours up on that mountain. It became a social event to go up and dig with all of your friends.” xTreme
xtreme idaho ~ spring edition 2014 ~ Idaho State Journal ~ 21
not your normal teenager: utah 16-year-old rising to the top of mountain biking competition By David Ashby dashby@journalnet.com hen most teenagers turn 16 years old, they want a car to drive. For Zach Peterson, all he wants is his bike. “The idea of a bike is pretty fascinating to me,” he says. “The fact that you have this vehicle that propels itself by your own muscles really fascinates me.” Though he is only a junior in high school, Peterson, a former resident of Pocatello, has already become a highly decorated junior mountain bike champion. At the 2011 USA Cycling MTB CrossCountry Nationals, he came in third place out of 41 contestants in his division. In July 2013, he came in first at the Suburu Cup in Mt. Morris, Wisc., and has recently placed in the top three in the KMC Classic in Colorado, Hammer Nutrition XC at Marshall Mountain in Montana, and the US Cup Fontana City National in California.
W
“WHen He WAS little, He WASn’t veRy GooD At A lot of otHeR SPoRtS. He DiDn’t HAve tHe CooRDinAtion… But WHen He Got into BikinG He JuSt took off.” ~ Brandy Peterson (mom) 22 ~ Idaho State Journal ~ spring edition 2014 ~ xtreme idaho
Zach travels so much and competes in so many races that his mom has trouble keeping track of all the trophies at their Bountiful, Utah home. “It's definitely fun to watch him excel so much,” said Brandy. “But he has something that most teenagers don't have. He is so focused and knows what he wants. Sometimes he doesn't seem like a normal teenager because he
trains every day and works so hard for good grades.” Zach's training regiment is intense. After school, he trains for three to four hours, with extensive cardiovascular and dietary curriculums he needs to follow to stay in the best shape possible. When he is on his bike during training, he closely monitors his heart rate. Yoga is also important. Unlike most teenagers, he is in bed at 9:30 p.m. every night.
The biking bug bit Zach at around the age of seven. His father James was active in mountain biking and naturally his son wanted to follow in his dad's footsteps. He started with his BMX bicycle and graduated to mountain bike competitions at the age of 10. “When he was little, he wasn't very good at a lot of other sports,” said Brandy. “He didn't have the coordination for a lot of sports like basketball or baseball but when he got into biking he just took off.” To help him achieve his goal of someday becoming a professional cyclist, Zach knows his grades in high school are crucial. He wants to be able to attend a college with a top-tier bicycling team, such as the University of Utah or Fort Lewis College in Colorado. He has even worked to bring the sport of cycling into his school, Bountiful High School. He help found his school's competitive biking team. The team is governed by the National Interscholastic Cycling Association (NICA), an organization created in 2009 devoted to creating biking programs in schools in all 50 states by 2020. Last year alone, the group added four new states to its portfolio. He says he came in second place in the last two Utah Mountain Bike State Championships,
missing the first place title both years by less than a second. In 2012, he was first place overall, and out of the nine high school races he has competed in over the past couple years, he has won three. This year is set up to become one of the biggest of Zach's biking career. In April, he will be traveling and living in Stuttgart, Germany for a couple months
to compete on the European biking circuit. He will be finishing his fourth term through online schools. He has also recently joined a new competitive team, called Whole Athlete Specialized Cycling Team, a group consisting of about one dozen fellow junior competitive cyclists from around the country.
continued on page 24
of Pocatello
210 Yellowstone Pocatello, ID (208) 233-4147 www.rhinoliningpocatello.com xtreme idaho ~ spring edition 2014 ~ Idaho State Journal ~ 23
ZACH PeteRSon RACe HiGHliGHtS First
Subaru Cup 7/13/2013 .......mt morris, Wisconsin
Third
Hammer Nutrition missoula xC at marshall mountain 6/21/2013 .......missoula, montana
Second
KmC Classic p/b rotor USA 6/16/2013 .......Colorado Springs, Colorado
Second
2013 Sea Otter Classic – mountain Bike 4/19/2013 .......monterrey, California
First
rumble at 18 road 4/14/2013 .......Fruita, Colorado
Second
US Cup Fontana City National 3/31/2013 .......Fontana, California
Second
US Cup Bonelli Pro Triple Crown 3/16/2013 .......San Dimas, California
Second
21st Annual Pedalfest 6/9/2012 .........Deer Valley, Utah
Second
east Canyon-echo road race 4/20/2012 .......Henefer, Utah
Third
2011 USA Cycling mTB Cross-Country Nationals 7/15/2011 .......Sun Valley, Idaho
PeteRSon continued from page 23 “Biking is a huge part of my life,” he said. “It's about the riding and freedom, especially when you get away from the city and ride in the mountains.” His advice for beginners looking to get into mountain biking is to go to races and compete in the lower divisions. He also advises that there are a lot of trails avail-
keeP ouR tRAilS lookinG GooD By Hannah Sanger
able to ride on, especially in the western states like Utah, Idaho and Wyoming. Local parks and deer trails in the woods work well. He even has own secret trail near his home that he rides on when he needs to get away and clear some stress. “The trail is very rocky and less than a mile,” he said. “No one knows about it.” xTreme
Our trails in Pocatello are mostly dirt (not rock), which is great, except that they get muddy pretty easily and they erode away even faster. Wind blows the bare dirt down into the valley, and water carries it into City Creek. But all is not lost! The city and countless volunteers have done a lot of work to control erosion up City Creek and you can help keep our single tracks looking great by remembering to stay on existing trails – if it is muddy, turn around. running or riding to the side of the muddy trail just creates a new trail of bare ground that will also erode away – and soon instead of a single track we have three or more parallel routes running up the bench – more bare dirt than we’d have with an ATV trail. running, biking or riding a horse in the mud damages the existing trail leaving deep tracks that are difficult to negotiate when the ground dries up. The City Creek area was granted to the City of Pocatello for watershed protection. Help us protect the quality of water in our creeks when you ride, by always staying on existing trails and out of the mud. For more information about water quality in the area, visit www.Streetwiseriverwise.pocatello.us. xTreme
24 ~ Idaho State Journal ~ spring edition 2014 ~ xtreme idaho
By Debbie Bryce For the Idaho State Journal POCATELLO – The third annual Spinderella Ride is expected to draw 1,000 riders from across the United States. The ride is set for June 21, at Ross Park in Pocatello. Organizer Danae Young said the ladies-only event is not a race, but a ride consisting of 10, 22, 50, 70 and 100-mile routes. This year Spinderella will also feature a 60-mile relay ride designed for two princesses. “I don’t want to race,” Young said. “I want to have fun with my family. That’s what we’re trying to do, to get women to see that this is
fun, we want them to say, ‘I want to start riding with my kids.’” Young said the Spinderella Ride is a fully-supported event, with water, snacks and help available throughout the course. Medical personnel are also on standby during the race. “We call it ‘Prince Charming to the Rescue,’” Young said. The riders, or princesses, will ride south through Marsh Valley and on to Downey. Each division has a different start time, so everyone finishes together. This year, Spinderella is raising money to help build a bicycle park at the Portneuf Wellness Complex. The park will include trails
and are appropriate for all ages, Young said. Early registration is $65 and the entry fee will go up to $75 after May 1. The entry fee gets participants a commemorative t-shirt, SWAG bag, party stops along the way complete with water, snacks and activities, post-ride celebrations that include music and prize drawings, and a seat at the finish line buffet. As well as supporting community projects and organizations, Young said items for Spinderella are purchased locally. The weather in Idaho is unpredictable and organizers suggest that riders dress in layers. Clothing
should be labeled with names and phone numbers as there will be drop boxes available at each of the water stations so riders can leave gear and pick it up after the ride. Girls are encouraged to dress up like little princesses for the event and finish line gifts will be handed out by Prince Charming himself, Young said. The Ameritel Inn of Pocatello is offering reduced room rates to Spinderella riders. xTreme
HoW to ReGiSteR To register for the Spinderella ride, go to www.spinderellaride.com. Volunteers are still needed for the ride. To volunteer, contact Young at (208) 221-9300, or by e-mail at spinderella33@gmail.com. Packets can be picked up on June 20 from 5 to 8 p.m. All riders must check in and bring a photo ID to the packet pick-up. Anyone under the age of 18 will have to have a guardian’s signature on waiver of liability. The ride will commence regardless of the weather and there are no refunds.
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Montpelier 332-3566 868 Washington St.
Soda Springs 332-3566 152 S. Main, Ste B
Hearing Tests are given for the purpose of selection and adjustment of hearing instruments. Results may vary related to duration and severity of impairment. Early detection is important.
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pedalFest June 14
p
By Debbie Bryce For the Idaho State Journal
OCATELLO – The annual Pocatello City Creek PedalFest celebrates mountain biking and raises money to improve local trail systems so bikers at every skill level can enjoy the sport. Now in its fifth year, PedalFest is set for June 14, at Centennial Park at the City Creek area in Pocatello. Organizer Jalyn Dewall said last year 178 racers and about 100 children turned out for the event. Money earned during PedalFest is used to upgrade and improve the City Creek trail system. The organization plans to turn over a check for $1,000 to the U.S. Forest Service to help fund improvements to the parking lot at the Gibson Jack trailhead. Dewall said the group will almost double that contribution in volunteer hours.
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Funds raised during this year’s event will also support projects at the new sports complex at the Bannock County Fairgrounds. There are three routes along City Creek during PedalFest. The course is between 13 and 27 miles long, depending on skill levels. The race offers beginners, sport and open divisions. “It’s a challenging course, but it’s a fun course,” Dewall said. Entry fees are $30 per rider and a suggested donation of $5 for children. The entry fee gets each competitor a lunch, t-shirt and SWAG bag filled with items donated by local sponsors. The race ends at Centennial Park where it started and an awards ceremony is planned following the race. A raffle will be held in conjunction with the race with prize drawings during the awards ceremony following the race – raffle tickets are $1 each. Dewall said she won’t be racing this year, she’ll be monitoring the course, but she’s looking forward to the event, which has grown each year since its inception in 2010. Racers can register online at active.com by clicking on Pocatello City Creek PedalFest, or at Barrie’s Ski and Sports at 624 Yellowstone Ave. in Pocatello. xTreme
Keep our trails looking and smelling good.
Always pick up after your dog. Thank you
GOLDEN SPIKE EQUIPMENT 1352 W. MAIN , TREMONTON WWW.GSPIKE.COM 435-257-5346
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Grand Targhee to host 5th Annual
Wydaho Mountain Biking Festival on Labor Day Weekend
T
By Journal Staff he 2014 Wydaho Rendezvous Mountain Bike Festival will be held on Labor Day weekend from Aug. 29 to Sept. 1 at the Grand Targhee Resort in Alta, Wyo. This year’s festival will mark the fifth year it has been held, and will feature races, exhibitions, group rides through the Teton Valley, parties, shopping, and cycling clinics. Attendees will also have the opportunity to “demo” or test drive new mountain bikes that will be released in 2015. Though the event is located in Wyoming, the resort is accessed through Driggs, Idaho, hence the name Wydaho. According to the festival’s website, Grand Targhee is quickly becoming an important mecca for mountain
biking enthusiasts in the west. The resort was recently awarded by Decline Magazine First Place in their Bike Park category and Mtbparks. com awarded them the 2013 Rider’s Choice Award for the northwest region. With the ski trails devoid of snow, attendees will be able to utilize a variety of crosscountry and downhill trails.
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The festival is an important fundraiser for Teton Valley Trails and Pathways, an organization devoted to creating and maintaining trails and pathways in the Teton Valley for outdoor recreation and nature appreciation. Additional funds raised will be donated to local cycling advocacy.
The title sponsor for the event will be Snake River Brewing, based out of Jackson, Wyo. The festival’s website, www. tetonbikefest.org, will be updated in the coming months with schedules, group ride information, event listings, lodging packages, demo bike companies, and registration information. xTreme
fRom ouR CAllinG All SHutteRBuGS: We are looking for the best outdoor photographs taken by our readers. Whether it’s a landscape shot, a picture of a trophy animal from a recent hunting or fishing trip, or photos from a recent hiking or mountain biking excursion, we would love to see it and publish it in the Idaho State Journal newspaper. If interested, please e-mail a copy of the photo to david Ashby at dashby@journalnet.com. xTreme
Cave Trail – Thinking top of the world, ab on ove scenic Pocatello. ~Matt Beatty
“Ride or die” at Cave Trail. ~ Stihl Quayle
City Creek in the fall. ~Matt Beatty
Cave TrailJumpin’ Guts in Janu rary. ~Matt Beatty
ver the Top. Fall 2013 ride. rOTingey ~ Ambe
more photos on page 30
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Beautiful day biking in City Creek. ~ mendy Hough
9 years old (L to R) Bode Baker, old, on City ars ye and Jett Baker, 10 orm. They have Creek after a rain st ce they were sin been trail riding 5 and 6 years old.
(L to R) Bode and Je Sap Tree up City Crtt Baker at the they rode over 500 eek. Last year miles. They are both Golden Glove Bo biking as their road xers and use work to fight.
Jonas Neeser leads the pack of the 2012 Pedalfest. k. ail at City Cree Enjoying the TrJonas Neeser ~Sandy &
Jonas & sandy nEEsEr
“We love to mountain bike and I think the only reason I take as many photos of us as I do is because I treasure every ride with my husband. He was diagnosed with cancer in dec. 2009. Jonas’ cancer has been in remission four years now. He began riding in 1999 and I followed in 2006. We enjoy our local trails on City Creek. Twice a year we travel down to Utah to mountain bike the Moab slickrock trails. We also compete in the Pedalfest each year.” ~ Sandy Neeser xTreme 30 ~ Idaho State Journal ~ spring edition 2014 ~ xtreme idaho
Sandy Neeser with blooming sunflowers ail on the City creek Tr Jonas Nee ser Back Trail at Amasa in Moab.
Idaho Outdoor News