Volunteers braved harsh winter weather to extend the mountain bike trail at Grand Vue Park by four miles, adding to the existing eight miles of trail. Despite temperatures dropping to 20 degrees with snowfall, the team of volunteers worked tirelessly to complete the project in a single day.
Ben Belock, Assistant General Manager of Grand Vue Park, praised the volunteers for their dedication, noting, “These guys operated heavy equipment, used chainsaws, and handled a lot of tough labor. It wasn’t easy work, especially in such cold and snowy conditions, so we really appreciate everything they did.”
The new section of the trail includes a berm designed to enhance the riding experience, making the trail smoother and more enjoyable. Belock estimated that the work completed by the volunteers would have cost the park between $10,000 and $15,000 if hired contractors had been used.
“We have a lot of forward-thinking volunteers here,” Belock added. “They want to put Grand Vue Park and the Northern Panhandle on the map for mountain biking in West Virginia and keep pace with the developments happening in the southern part of the state. And they’re succeeding.”
Around 20 volunteers participated in the project, most of whom are members of the West Virginia Ridge Riders cycling team. The team is known for its commitment to community involvement and its efforts to improve mountain biking in the region.
“Our Ridge Riders cycling team is great for anyone, especially young riders. Whether it’s their first time on pavement or they’re learning to ride, they’re an excellent group to work with,” Belock said.
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