Jacobsburg State Park

VMB, working with the park managers and a good crew of equestrians had one of our first trail work days at Jacobsburg in years and we got a ton done. At the request of the park, we assisted the equestrians to turn their single-wide bridges into double wides, making it easier for horses to cross and less likely that users would walk or ride around them, which had created swampy areas. To help control erosion and run-off in those areas, we put in several grade reversals above and between the bridges, and did a substantial amount of deberming to help water flow across the trail.

Rob Neitz, who manages Jacobsburg said he's had some reports of mountain bikers on the pedestrian only Henry's Wood trail. Rob's a supporter of mountain biking so we should help him out by reminding any other riders we see on that section that bikes are not allowed.

Rob's is interested in finding ways to improve the mountain biking at Jacobsburg. We've had less active role maintaining those trails the last few years, but they're still popular with a ton of riders. If any rides there regulalry, or is interested in helping out, let me know and we can work with Rob get more involved.

besides a tree or two, the burg held up pretty good during the snow. the normal mud spots are pretty deep these days, however. also 100% clear is new rail to trail from northampton to palmerton. tow path from bethlehem to allentown clear too.

The small game hunters are out in force at the burg. Complete with bright orange vests and hunting dogs, etc. In particular on the Blue Trails. Game commission was there also, keeping an eye on the hunters.

Wear bright colors if you're riding there so they see you. You will probably see them before they see you so make some noise and let them know you're in the vicinity.

j burg froze back over and is ridable with some effort. Did a few rides on my new nokian 29rstudded tires and i'm glad i got them. Awesome tread pattern for just snow and enough studs for the hidden ice. The width is perfect so you still have room to shed wet snow. At $110 each its hard to justify but after my irc 26" blizzard studded lasted 9 years its a good investment. Have you local shop order you a set. Fyi, nokian is not my tire sponsor and i actually paid for them . just thought they deserved a good report.

Sadie and I were at the burg around 11am this morning. The conditions were not great, but rideable. 70% frozen snow and ice covered with lots af frozen foot, bike and hoof prints.

OK, so my intermediate level husband is taking me to Jacobsburg on Friday. I'm an absolute beginner, this will be my first "real" trail. Since he tends to overestimate my abilities, I'm hoping you can give me some tips.

Which is the best trail at Jacobsburg for the absolute beginner? I'm 37 years old, and just got on a bike a couple of weeks ago. I ride 2-4 miles every day around my neighborhood paved roads, and some large gravel/dirt roads.

Thanks for any advice!

Michele

Found a Schwinn computer up at Jacobsburg last night. Let me know if you lost one.

(Originally in response to Marv's post, in another forum)

JACOBSBURG DESPERATELY NEEDS A TRAIL INTERVENTION!

As you know, there's a history of maintenance there with VMB and an even longer one with the Chain Gang. Years ago, I was the club's liaison with the park manager. After me, it was Terry Miller.

Here's my best guess on how I think things ended up in the current situation: