Kicking Horse Bike Park - Trail Crew Update #4

Posted: Oct 7, 2008

The straight goods on Kicking Horse Bike Park, straight from the trail crew's fingertips.

Kicking Horse Bike Park is open for one more weekend! The snow is sticking to the mighty peaks that lie just above us and soon it will be blanketing the trails. Before that happens though, we still have 1,200m of vertical descents available. In fact, except for a familiar resort 8 hours to the west, we are the only lift-accessed bike park open in the world! (…by ‘world’ I mean western Canada)

We have had an amazing season at KHBP. Everyone on trail crew and patrol wants to thank all the riders who came and had a good time here. By that very act of enjoyment you have contributed to the improvement of the bike park. All your comments, referrals, stoke and karma have helped boost our rider numbers 50% this year over 2007, and 100% over 2006. Now I’m no scientifical economista, but those numbers seem to indicate pretty decent growth. Every time one of you comes here increases the odds that this era of quality adjustment is going to continue.

We particularly want to thank all those that have taken the time to stop their bikes, knock us some biker knuckles, comment on our efforts, and offer insights. Sure, we’re mainly developing these trails for our own amusement, but it’s always nice to hear others are having fun too.

Ok, enough hugfest. Here’s some things to think about for next year:

We tried out a prototype 6-pack bike rack on the gondola this fall. We are seeking ways to get you up the mountain faster. Maybe this rack is the answer. Check back next season.

The big news this year as far as Chuck and I are concerned was the opening of Phase I of Stickrock, which is the first part of the replacement of the old Roadrunner. Well, I’ll be vague so I don’t spoil the surprise, but the official opening of a further enhancement may or may not be announced next spring. It was or wasn’t unofficially opened two weekends ago, so those who know what I’m talking about know what I’m talking about. For the others, a hint: it consists of sticks and rocks. Maybe. Might have one of these (or not):


Other big changes are being discussed and imaginations are running wild. But next year is next year and who knows what will happen? All I know is that there is still some crazy good biking here at Kicking Horse Bike Park right now. At least until the snow flies, which may be tomorrow. You never know in the mountains. And if the upper trails ice up, then sorry, we won’t be open this weekend and you can pretty much ignore everything in the first paragraph.

Here are some random photos from the season:


Thanks for the season! See you next year! Bring a buddy because she/he can carry the tools, patch kit and pump! Stay in front!

More info at www.kickinghorseresort.com
Ride on.
Crowe