http://www.mountainbike.com/adventures/article/1,4823,13347_603,00.html


Austin, Texas
Can Armstrong do this? Mountain bikers tear up trails built for all skill levels in a town known for a road racing celeb.
By Andrew Vontz


WHY HERE, WHY NOW: Because while that guy who won the Tour six times is Austin's greatest claim to cycling fame, the town should also be noted for its stellar mountain biking.

DIRT: Go to Walnut Creek for a 10-mile, hardpack, singletrack loop that slaloms and curls endlessly through blessedly shade-providing cedar trees. There's nary a straightaway in sight, which makes the going fun. Also, you can veer onto either of the two mini loops to play on BMX-style jumps and g-outs. Together these trails make for a full day of fun. At low speeds this area offers a perfect beginner's park. Bring the noise and bum-rush the trail for an expert-level bike-handling challenge. A bunch of power climbs and descents over roots and wet white rock locals call "Texas Slime" provide a moderate technical challenge. Beware the hordes of leash-less dogs--and their owners--around the frequent blind bends. More Info: Locals prefer Kenda Cortez Blue Groove tires and use bikemojo.com to coordinate group rides.

Trailhead: Go North on I-35 10 miles out of downtown, exit west (left) on Parmer Lane, drive a half-mile, then go south (left) on N. Lamar Blvd. Watch for the park sign a half-mile down the road on the right. For faster, longer challenges hit the Greenbelt for 22 miles of stone-studded hardpack (and also loose-rock) singletrack. There are two good climbing loops--the Wall and the switchbacking New Wall--where locals test their mettle. Sunday morning epics regularly draw groups of 50 or more. If you're a rock climber, there are numerous top-rope and bouldering options along the route, too. Or stop for a swim in one of the many crystal-clear swimming holes trailside in Barton Creek. More Info: austinridgeriders.com/trails.htm#bartoncreek Trailhead: Take Highway 360 West. Drive a half-mile and turn left into the office park and drive 100 yards to the dirt parking lot at the trailhead. If you want to put your 6-incher through its paces try City Park's 7-mile loop of super-technical rock-ledge, stair-step climbs and descents. More Info: Get maps and directions at xenopuselectronix.com/top.htm.