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The Grotto Dirt Jumps
Jumps
During my recent visit to Portland, all I wanted to do was jump dirt.
Unfortunately, no one was available during the week to ride, as everyone
I knew was at work. Almost everyone. My friend Hal took the day off and
let me drag him around Portland to check out various riding spots. One
spot in particular was on my mind: the Grotto. I recently found a video
clip online of the Grotto- and it didn't look at all like I remembered
it from when I lived in Portland. Checking out the Grotto became an important
mission I had to make, even if I would be the only one to ride it. (with
my gimpy ankles to boot)
Like a dream
Even though the dirt was dry, and the lips were crumbly, these jumps
were a sight. The last time I had been to the Grotto Jumps was several
years ago. There was a line of pretty good sized hits that went around
in a loop, and at least another large quad. What I saw this time blew
my mind. Image rows and rows of dirt leading off into the distance. They
just seemed to keep going. And going. Like a pink bunny.
The condition of the jumps was a bit disappointing, but
I was determined to make the most of it and ride what I could.
the starting ramp
As I walked my bike back past the rows and rows of jumps, I couldn't help
but be amazed at all the work that went into creating this playground.
These trails are exactly what I have been looking to ride here in the
Bay Area.
Just jumps, jumps and more jumps. I honestly can't remember
how many sets were in the line. And there were two main lines; at one
point you had the option to go from the left to the right. I'm sure there
were other spots to transfer back and forth as well, but I was still feeling
overwhelmed.
Hal and I rode for several hours. While Hal was just getting
into the more "extreme" aspects of riding mountain bikes and
was limited to the pump track lines, a bit of coaching from yours truly,
and by the end of the day his progression and comfort level on his bike
was obvious. Hopefully he continues to take advantage of this incredible
dirt play ground.
I could have kept riding here all day. Unfortunately I re
injured the ankle I had jammed just the day before at Meldrum Bar. That
put a bit of a damper on my fun.
Thanks and shout out to Hal
for manning my camera and documenting my fun.
If you like to jump dirt and make it up to the Portland
Area, you won't want to miss out on sessioning this place.
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