Let's Ride the Black Diamond from White Haven

Host: Darwin Gregory

Cell: (570) 793-6489

Pace: Slow

Distance: 10-15 miles +/-, or whatever we can do in a couple of hours.

Terrain: Relatively flat crushed stone. Very slightly up hill going out, and down hill coming back.

Traffic: Trail is closed to motor vehicles., but we will cross a road or two.

Bike Type: Hybrid bike recommended. The last time I rode the trail, it was probably smooth enough for any bicycle type. The first mile or so of the trail is a little rugged, but once we cross the first road, it is crushed stone. The trail could be a little soft right now.

What to Bring: Bring water (or other healthy liquid) to stay hydrates, and I think based on our riding time, a sandwich or healthy snack to enjoy along the ride would be a good idea. I plan to bring something to eat while we get to know each other at a rest stop on the trail.

Possible Rentals: There is a place near the Lehigh Gorge trailhead that rents bikes. I do not know if they will be open yet, but if you don't have a bike ready to ride, there is a possibility. It is a very short ride on the road to where we will be meeting. I can also make a free loaner available from my own stable if contacted in advance. My selection is obviously limited. :)

Car Pooling: If you have room for an extra bike or person, please list availability in a comment. Please list where you are willing to meet/pickup a rider. If you would like a ride, check the comments.

AS A CONDITION OF ATTENDING THIS MEETUP, YOU AGREE to hold harmless, and indemnify the organizer and his heirs, and all members and participants of this Meetup group from any and all claims for injury, illness, death, and/or property damage including those caused by negligence, ignorance, inexperience and other reasons. You also agree to assume all mental, physical, financial, and/or other risk associated with this meetup. All meetup activities pose inherent risks and dangers. Participation in these activities is voluntary and dependent upon your own personal judgment. This meetup is only open to anyone over 18 years old, unless accompanied by a responsible adult.

Directions:

From Route 940 in White Haven turn North on Main Street, and the parking lot should be near where the road ends. I will confirm this, but based on the map this seems to be the case. If anyone has ever ridden the Lehigh Gorge from White Haven, this is just across the highway the other direction from the shopping center.

Additional Comments:

Because it is early in the season, I want to start our trail rides on the lower side of the sections of trail so that our return trip is easier than our outbound leg.

My experience on the D&L trails this month have been progressively better.

April 1, road just over 1 mile in White Haven through mud & snow (tough ride)

April 5, road 6.4 miles round trip on the Lehigh Gorge starting in Jim Thorpe. Trail was dry, but had some loose sandy parts, which I assume were because it hadn't had time to firm up yet.

April 12, who knows? We'll find out. :) We will expend about 10-15 miles worth of effort, whether that actually brings us 10-15 miles, or 6 like it did last week, I am not sure.