Green Gravel Ride
9:00 a.m. 12:00 p.m.
Are you newer to gravel, or are you looking for a less technical or slower paced gravel ride? These rides are a great way to grow your skills and legs in a supportive, no-drop group format, meaning we'll regroup to make sure no one gets left behind.
Routes will generally include gravel roads with surfaces appropriate to grow your skills without being too overwhelming. Routes are best enjoyed on a gravel bike with tires 38mm or larger. More seasoned gravel riders are welcome, but please do not push the pace. If you are frequently finding yourself off the front, go back and ride alongside or behind the slowest rider.
Rides can include remote areas without vehicle access or cell service. Riders are expected to be prepared for longer rides, carrying supplies for basic mechanicals, fuel and hydration.
This ride requires MIVA membership, or you can try two MIVA events with signed waivers. Waivers can be found on the "About Us" page: either complete a Meet and Greet Waiver via the registration link, or print and bring it along to the ride.
Route this week:
Timberland Lake Gravel Loop
This is a short and technically easy gravel ride. It starts with a paved road ride along Vowels Rd and Hallberg Rd to Timberland Rd, then hits gravel and climbs up Spruceton Main and Sunny to the beautiful Timberland Lake. At the Lake are two exceptionally beautiful short diversions (under 200m each), the longer of which leads to a very pretty viewpoint and swimming spot on the west shore of Timberland Lake.
After the lake, the route travels northward above Crystal and McKay Lakes, eventually meeting the paved Spruceton Rd. Then there is a fast paved descent towards Highway 19. Approximately 100 m before the Highway, exit right onto a trail leading to a beautiful little wooden bridge connecting to the end of Angus Rd. The bridge is called the Haslam Creek Bridge on Google Maps, but is not shown on most maps.
The only slightly tricky section is near the 12km mark on the paved(!) trail overlooking McKay Lake, where a very deep trench has been dug to deactivate the road. Look carefully, and you'll see a decent walking path going very slightly down the bank to the right of the trench. You have to carry the bikes for approximately 50 meters.
We recommend parking on the side of the road near the JW Hall on Vowel's Rd.