San Tan is Dynamite
The new trail out at San Tan park is Dynamite. The Goldmine TH off Wagon Wheel and Skyline has been worthless to mountain bikers for years. The only way into the park was a horrendous Hike-a-bike I called the rite of passage. I’d tried to ride it plenty of times, but it was a wicked way to start a ride, especially in the San Tans where the rest of the riding is easy XC.
But now we have Dynamite (and so do the hikers, horses and runners…I’m not a trail runner but if I was, this would be a great morning run.) Dynamite bypasses the rite of passage, with a gradual bench cut climb skirting its way into the park through classic desert hills and views.
I’d read the chatter on MTBR about the new trail. But on page two of the thread, Freeskier46‘s description peek my interest enough to go see for myself…
What can I say, that trail is really nice! Sure it’s a bit wide right now due to the new construction, but the grade is BCT-esque and it’s a good one mile + climb to the top. From the TH it’s 2.5 miles until you connect in with the San Tan trail. This will definitely be my preferred way to enter the park.
It’s BeesKneesian climb, but a little less steep. It’s wide, buff, with nice views. San Tan has always been one of my favorite places for sweet desert views. The riding is very moderate, but when you just want to pedal and soak up views, San Tan in nice.
Saturday morning the Park had just seen some good rain. It was cold, the trails were tacky and made for excellent San Tanning.
Rode your exact route today! Very nice ride for those of us looking to get back in shape and improve our MTB skills. Really fun ride!
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Thanks for the comment and compliments Nik. I’m looking forward to seeing you next time…Bring on the Dynamite Challenge!
Rode Dynamite – San Tan – Hedgehog – San Tan – Dynamite today. After having slogged my way up the Goldmine Trail once two summers ago, this new entrance is aptly named – Dynamite! Stopped 3 times for horses, but it was a Saturday. Mike, you got me by one minute on the initial climb. Now that I’m more familiar with the trail, I’m coming for ya! Your site rocks! Thanks for all the good MTB info!
My buddy and I are heading there early tomorrow morning. Can’t wait, and thanks for the great info!
Yes indeed. If only I didn’t have to pay 2 bucks to get into the park, I’d ride there more. But this trail should get a few more riders into the park.
I thought you’d like that one!! It totally changes my view about the park, especially since we can now easily enter on the north side of the park. Beware the downhill return to the Goldmine TH, the trail begs you to go fast, but there are a couple of blind corners that could ruin someone’s day!! A couple more trails like Dynamite and San Tan will really turn into a ride destination.