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Sat, Apr 23 2011 - Arabia-Panola Mtn Paved Bike Trail (View Original Event Details)

Trip Leader(s): John Christopher, Paula Schubert
Participants:John Christopher, Paula Schubert, Tom Jarosz (Yah-rosz), Sondra, Barbara, Kristi, cliff j, Laura Judy, Gary Babiarz, Robert Craig, Glenda, Alan Neagle, Amy


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Write Up:
We started at the Arabia Mountain nature center with ominous but beautiful foggy weather. We started the paved trail out of Arabia Park and sped down the first few hills at breakneck speed.  With the fog, the boardwalks were a little wet and required some caution as we slowed down the pace. The paved trail winds through some forests and over some creeks. These sights along with the fog, lush foliage, and cool temps made for an excellent start to the ride.

About 1/3 of the way into the trip, we hit the first serious hill. It's a low grade climb of about 100 yards. Switching into low gears made it possible to keep moving over the long climb. The entire trip was very hilly and made for some adventurous turns. There are a few turns that are true switchbacks and difficult to handle at 40 mph! Ok, maybe 15 mph.....

The trail ends on a dyke as it crosses the middle of Alexander Lake near Panola Mountain Park. This was the halfway point of our trip and we took a break for snacks and group photo.  The return trip started with a very steep climb on a short hill. This was the second most difficult hill and required low gears to keep moving. Everyone made it to the top without walking and after a quick breather we started riding again. After zipping back through the now familiar hills and turns, we rolled into the Nature Center parking lot. Everyone enjoyed the ride and agreed, the hill climbs provided a good workout over the short 16 miles ride.


-John C

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