Is Hardwood Hills XC Bike Park Worth the Price? A Mountain Biking Adventure
Mountain biking is an exhilarating sport that combines thrill, fitness, and the beauty of nature. One of the premier locations for this activity in Ontario is Hardwood Hills, a cross-country bike park that promises unique features and challenging trails. In this blog, we’ll explore the park, its offerings, and whether the experience justifies the price tag of admission.
Introduction to Hardwood Hills
Located in the Simcoe County area, Hardwood Hills is known for its variety of trails and well-maintained paths. After two years of exploring the extensive network of trails in this region, I finally decided it was time to check out this bike park. Today, I’m going to share my experience of riding through Hardwood Hills and whether it lives up to the hype.
The Adventure Begins
Upon arrival, I was greeted with the promise of eight different tracks, including the renowned PanAm trail. We opted for the “serious” track, which spans approximately 11 kilometers. This choice was primarily due to time constraints, as we aimed to maximize our ride within a limited timeframe.
The experience commenced on a double track, which set the tone for the ride ahead. The initial sections were relatively flat and smooth, allowing for a good warm-up. However, it quickly became apparent that the terrain would offer its own set of challenges.
Riding the Trails
As we delved deeper into the ride, the terrain shifted. The trail featured roots and rocks, typical of cross-country biking, which kept us on our toes. The first notable feature we encountered was a man-made rock garden, a sign of the fun that lay ahead. However, with excitement comes caution, as the risk of damaging equipment was always present.
The Technical Challenge
While navigating the track, I hit a bump that led to a concerning noise from my bike. It was unclear whether this was the moment I broke my shock, but the sound indicated something was amiss. Despite this setback, the ride continued to be enjoyable, with a mix of technical challenges and fast downhill sections that allowed us to catch our breath.
Throughout the ride, the balance of uphill climbs and fast descents was well-designed. The climbs, while challenging, remained consistent and manageable, ensuring that the experience was enjoyable for most riders.
Scenic Lookouts
One of the highlights of the ride was reaching a lookout point. This vantage offered a stunning view of the surrounding area, reminding us of the beauty of mountain biking. It was a perfect spot to take a breather and appreciate the natural scenery.
The Thrill of the Descent
After enjoying the view, we were ready to tackle the descent. The trails at Hardwood Hills are designed to provide an exhilarating ride, with sections that shred quickly and smoothly. The chatter from the bike as we navigated through the terrain added to the thrill of the ride.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, my visit to Hardwood Hills was a memorable experience. The park offers a range of trails that cater to different skill levels, with a good mix of technical features and fast sections. However, I found it essential to consider the value of the experience. While the trails are enjoyable, there are numerous other trails in the Simcoe County area that also provide excellent riding opportunities.
As a member of the Simcoe County Mountain Bike Club, I receive a 50% discount on admission, which certainly makes the visit more worthwhile. I would recommend checking out Hardwood Hills, especially for those who enjoy cross-country biking and are looking for a new adventure.
Additional Resources
If you’re interested in exploring more about the trails in the Simcoe County area, check out the Simcoe County Mountain Bike Club. They offer a wealth of information and resources for mountain bikers in the region.
For those looking to share their own biking experiences or stay updated on mountain biking adventures, feel free to connect with me on Instagram.
And if you’re in need of high-quality mountain biking gear or accessories, visit Tony's Mountain Bike for some great options.
Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a beginner, Hardwood Hills offers a great opportunity to enjoy the thrill of mountain biking. So grab your bike, hit the trails, and embrace the adventure!
Made with VideoToBlog
