The Laurentian Escarpment Community Trails could become Northern Ontario’s first mapped adaptive mountain biking trail network.
This after a two-day assessment was done last weekend by a team of three adaptive mountain bike riders.
They assessed trail features, including off-camber sections, narrow boardwalks and areas that could present tipping risks for three-wheeled bikes.
Discovery Routes and the North Bay Mountain Bike Association teamed up for the evaluation, saying the goal was to determine what minor modifications could help welcome more riders.
The assessment was led by Jen Gadoua of Kitchener, an adaptive mountain bike instructor and advocate.
“This trail system is actually quite adaptive-friendly without significant modifications,” says Gadoua. “We didn’t run into very many pinch points, even with our wider adaptive bikes, which can measure up to 38.6 inches. We’re not looking to turn these trails into smooth, wide stroller paths. Adaptive riders want to experience technical terrain and the challenges of mountain biking, too. Sometimes, making a trail more adaptive-friendly can be as simple as moving a rock that’s creating an obstacle.”
Local rider, Kevin McKenna, a celebrated para-cyclist who made the switch to adaptive mountain biking, was also on the assessment team.
“An adaptive mountain bike allows me to stay active, challenge myself, and explore places I otherwise couldn’t access,” he says. “It gives me greater freedom and independence while helping me continue discovering what’s possible and connecting with the mountain biking community.”
Resulting information from the assessment will help North Bay Mountain Bike Association volunteers identify and complete minor trail improvements.
“With few mapped adaptive mountain bike trails currently identified in Ontario, North Bay has an opportunity to take a leading role in this growing outdoor recreation community,” states a release.
Officials say the assessment opens the door to future adaptive mountain biking camps and opportunities to attract riders from across Ontario and beyond.
