The 2021 riding season in the ACFL is upon us. Get out and enjoy it!
This is bit of a pre-season trail report. So far, trail conditions have been very good. During the winter I spent the days I could get out in the ACFL riding my MTB and hiking, and have been watching closely to see how the trails recovered from last year’s use. Over the past year, since Covid-19 fell upon us, there have been a lot more people out using the Forest Lands for all kinds of recreation. Last year we had a boom in community members getting out on eBikes and enjoying the ACFL, which was great to see. I didn’t notice any adverse effects from last year’s season. Overall, the trails are in the best shape I’ve seen them in for years.
It’s been especially good to see, despite the increase in use both from motorcycle and eBike, there has been no effect on the condition of the trails. If anything, the impact has been positive for the community because more folks got out into the woods to recreate and interact with nature.
The winter was tough on the trees with all the rain and wind. We lost quite a few to windfall, and the City of Anacortes’ Steve Phillips has been working hard to keep the trails clear. Kudos to Steve for his drive and willingness to work tirelessly in the Forest Lands for all of us.
This season, I expect we will continue to see more usage, and ask that you all continue to be courteous and respectful of the other users on the trails, like you always are. It makes a positive difference in the way other user groups see us! Take the time to stop and talk, and make a new friend.
Here’s a quick reminder of the basics:
-650cc limit applies to dual-purpose bikes
-250cc limit for all others
-4-stroke bikes only at this time
-Speed limit is 15 MPH
-eBikes are limited to Motorcycle Trails only
If you have any comments, positive or negative, or need help getting a question answered, reach out to me so that I can get you an answer or work with the City on your behalf. Heck, reach out any time and let me know what you’re thinking.
Happy Trails!