SPRING CREEK WATERSHED SUITABILITY: MOUNTAIN BIKE RETREAT DESIGN INTENT
DESIGN STRATEGY
To develop a site that will consist of a variety of features to bring more significance to the mountain bike community. A key feature of the project consists of an indoor obstacle course that will allow mountain bikers to continue to challenge themselves and improve their technique on a year round basis.
Parking, welcome center
PROJECT GOAL Pavilion, campground, cabins,
The purpose of this design is to attract mountain bikers from different backgrounds and experiences to come together in one central area. Within this area, mountain bikers will be able to enjoy an exclusive experience which will allow them to enjoy the thrills of mountain biking all year round. EXPERIENCE + CONNECTIONS + ATMOSPHERE = GOAL
Indoor course, social connections, positive, health skills course skills guidance awareness
food court Obstacle course, indoor course, combined trails The program will be divided into three sections which will mainly include: an entrance, pavilion and mountain biking trails. Each of these elements are organized in categories which will allow visitors to ENTER, GATHER and CHALLENGE their skills within the site. The layers allow visitors to move forward throughout the site and have the convenience of having these elements surround them as illustrated above.
ANALYTICAL MATRIX Layers
Slope percent
Land use
Forests
Land value
SUITABILITY MAPS SLOPE PERCENT
Most suitable
Least suitable
LAND USE AND FORESTS
Most suitable
Least suitable
The different slope percents are crucial in order to construct an engaging outdoor mountain biking trail. Although subtle slopes from 0-5% are favorable for developments, it is important to incorporate slopes ranging from 0-15% in the trail system to create a dynamic experience for users with different experience levels.
Vacant and unused land lots are ideal when searching for a site to establish a development. Although it is a desired feature, the forest is the most ideal environment for mountain biking trails for many reasons. It will provide a shaded site, slope changes and natural obstacles such as branches, roots and rocks. These characteristics provide an authentic experience for bikers riding through the area.
PROXIMITY TO PARKS
FAIR MARKET VALUE
Most suitable
Most suitable
Least suitable
Least suitable Data not available
Similar to land use and forests, existing parks will provide a useful connection to the site. The map above illustrates the proximity of these parks and the clusters it has formed. Connecting the site to an existing park(s) will provide the advantage of traveling to and exploring other features such as hiking trails, playgrounds, and other amenities the parks provide.
Depending on how much funding the site will receive, it is important to maintain a low budget for the site. Land that is relatively inexpensive will help to keep the site design relatively cost effective.