Trail Talk!
Sport: Mountain Bike
Participants: 4
Trail(s): Green, Orange
System: Herrington Manor State Park
⭐️ 9.5 out of 10

There’s a certain kind of magic in a crisp, blue-sky afternoon ride — especially when it’s 40 degrees and you’re layered just right. Last week’s ride had it all: singletrack, sunshine, sisterhood, and a little bit of story.

The four of us set out on the green trail to get to the orange trail, weaving through the woods on sweet, flowing dirt. It was one of those afternoons where the light cuts through the trees just right and every pedal stroke feels worth it. We kept a steady pace, talking and laughing, soaking up the first real spring feeling of the season.

We covered about 6.53 miles with 597 feet of elevation — enough to feel it in the legs, but not so much that we couldn’t chat through it. Somewhere along the way, the trail opened up just enough for a fun little descent and I hit a max speed of 26.6 mph — fast enough to feel wild, not enough to lose control.

Midway through, we learned about “the spot.”

It’s just a section of trail with a small sapling stump, really — one of hundreds we’ve all ridden — but it’s where Sharon took a pretty good tumble a few days ago. From now on, every time we pass that little stub, we’ll remember: this is the spot. A little cautionary tale, a little giggle, a reminder of how quickly dirt turns to a story.

The trails were in fantastic condition and I’m so happy we were able to get out before the monsoon-like rains.

Afternoons like this — good dirt, good friends, and new trail memories — are what keep me coming back for more. Here’s to more stories, more miles, and more bright blue spring rides.