Every fall we embark on a 40km trail ride on the Grey Owl's trail. Starting at the trail-head at the parking lot and riding to the cabin and back, weather permitting. This is a challenging ride to say the least. It will challenge you physically and mentally. It will also put your bike to the test.
The scenery is beautiful, especially this time of year. The fall colours, cooler weather and lack of bugs make it a very enjoyable time to be outside. However, the trail itself is relentless with roots and rocks nearly the entire way. The constant hammering on your hands, arms, feet and legs will fatigue you!
We want to be on the trail by 9 or 9:30am this year as the sun drops way too fast. We usually ride for 5-6 hours, but with breaks the total time is closer to 8 hours on the trail. It is very likely that we will finish the ride approximately 1+ hours in the dark, so bring a light!
What Bike?
Mountain bikes ONLY, and full suspension bikes are preferred. Fat tire bikes are nice for traction as long as they aren't too heavy. Keep anything you don't need off the bike! You will be lifting your bike 10-20 times at least over fallen trees, so you do not want to be lifting unnecessary items. Your bike should be in good working order. This will test it, and if you already have a poorly running bike it will only get worse.
What Gear?
Being late fall, bring warm clothes. Gloves, neck warmers, even toques may be needed. Bring extra socks. Extra gloves. And then of course you will also need a bag to carry these items when you get too warm. So a 20L backpack would be ideal. Something that is comfortable to wear and handles the weight properly. Ideally it's a hydration pack as well so you can carry extra water.
What Fuel?
Bring water. Bring a filter if you have one to filter lake water so you don't have to carry the weight and bulk of liquids. Bring something to mix in your water (like Nuun tablets, or even Mio if you want). Bring snacks. Sweet snacks. Salty snacks. Fruit, meat, cheese. All the snacks! Bring Advil. We won't be eating lunch on the trail, so bring enough snacks to keep you going all day.
Also check out other Trips & Adventurous Activities in Prince Albert, Workshops in Prince Albert, Contests in Prince Albert.
