Ride Plan – Spence Basin: Noodle & Lower Juniper Short Course

Spence Basin: Noodle & Lower Juniper Short Course

Two short course segments in lower Spence Basin where newer or recreational riders can take an easier pace on the Noodle loop (follow one color of cones) while more advanced riders take a technical side step down lower Juniper Gate (follow a different color of cones).

Easier – Spence Basin: Noodle Loop

1.8 mile loop on the Noodle trail with gradual climbs and descents + wider turns. North half of the loop will feature passing requests from the more advanced riders while the south half of the loop will not include the advanced riders, who will cut through Lower Juniper instead. Two road crossings require extra caution and coaching coverage.

Coach placement on course (red dots in map below):

1. 1. 1. North Noodle road crossing for monitoring traffic and proper rider crossing techniques (foot down stop and look)
      2. Branch from Noodle to Lower Juniper to ensure newer riders continue on the easier loop (Noodle).
      3. Noodle south road crossing to encourage riders on easier loop.
      4. Top of noodle loop to encourage riders and facilitate a rest area in shade.
      5. Riding around noodle loop to provide spot instruction and monitor entire course.

Trailforks Route – Spence Basin: Noodle Short Course

Video: Noodle loop

Harder – Spence Basin: Noodle/Lower Juniper Loop

1-mile loop that features some of the more technical aspects of Noodle, including looser turns through a wash and tight climb turns at the NE corner of loop, and incorporates a rock drop on Lower Juniper. Confluence at bottom of Lower Juniper back into Noodle is wide open for safer merging.

Coach placement on course (red dots in map below):

1. 1. 1. Rock drop on Lower Juniper to ensure only advanced riders attempt with proper technique, monitor for potential problems.
      2. Branch from Noodle to Lower Juniper to ensure only advanced riders take this path while encouraging other riders continuing on the easier loop.
      3. Same as “Easier – Noodle Loop”: North Noodle road crossing coach can also monitor nearby Juniper / Noodle merge point.
      4. Same as “Easier – Noodle Loop”: Top of noodle loop to encourage riders and facilitate a rest area in shade.

Trailforks Route – Spence Basin: Noodle/Lower Juniper Short Course

Video: Lower Juniper from Noodle Intersection
(starting at 13:45 with rock drop at 13:47 to 13:52)

Photo: Lower Juniper rock drop (click image for larger view)