Chris, Kirby and I have moved to Salado which is less than an hour from Thorndale. We are thinking about getting back on the leases but Rusty's and Cedar Creek are just too far away to be frequently useful. We don't like to ride by ourselves so I was curious if most people go to the South leases or go to Thorndale. Basically we would mainly just use Thorndale so is there generally lots of people there?

Also, I guess I should ask are there still any Leases left?

It really depends on your skill level and of course the weather at any point in time. Rusty's and Cedar Creek are close to each other out near Bastrop so get that kind of weather, whereas Thorndale is further North and tends to drain better (though it's not as Sandy as old Milano so doesn't shed water like that property).

IMO Thorndale is the most challenging and fun property, plus it's the largest lease (lots more room to cut more trails). It's where I go if we're just bringing the guys on the big bikes; was there today in fact. There is a short loop for beginners but the main loop has some pretty technical riding in it. The tabletop jump in the parking area is a bonus, though right now you really can't see it since it's so overgrown with sunflowers. As I posted in another thread, this property needs a work day or 2 to get the overgrowth back under control after this crazy summer we've had, since it's really hard to see the where the trail goes in the open areas.

Rusty's is great for beginners. It's the smallest property but has the advantage of the tree area for beginners. There's fun to be had in the creeks for the more advanced riders, and there are some sandy areas that offer challenges, too. Running water and oftentimes Rusty cooking for us is another bonus.

I find Cedar Creek a nice compromise all the way around. There is a short loop for beginners and more technical areas for more advanced riders, plus it's size is between the other 2.

Thorndale is by far my favorite.

Roger . . . . . if you ride anything like you did on that Barnwell trip we did way back when, you'll find all the leases pretty darn easy. Nice flow and fun, but not very technical. I like Thorndale the best because it has the most elevation changes and is the biggest, Rusty's is just too easy (but my daughter likes it), and all I get at Cedar Creek is flats from the mesquite thorns. Plus, I am north too and Thorndale is like a 45 minute trip for me. I mainly ride there, but due to weather, I haven't ridden in a couple months.

You and Chris would like it unless y'all got all technical on us

And if you guys are THAT technical, just head on over to the little jewel we have here called City Park and ride for free. The trials guys and mountain bikers love that place.

City Park is awesome - I'm prob. goign to ride there after work one day later this week.

Roger, you know y'all can be my guests at Thorndale. Might get me out on the big bike again!

I remember the time we went to City Park together. It was the weekend after the ice storm in 2000 or 2001. It was wet and there were trees down all over the place. Man, that was a hard lap to make that day!

Greg

Roger,

If you guys are near Salado, one of the best places to ride is in that area. CTOR, it's the old Fort Hood group and the land is awesome. Nice camping facilities as well. 70 to 80 miles of trails and more. Over 600 acres. I believe the land owner runs the business...I'm sure I can get you a number if you are interested.

Pat Krov

Thanks Pat:

We will move this thread over to CTOR for you.

-Larry