Several members of the club took a mini trip this week for a couple days of mountain biking at the famous Potter's Pasture south of Brady, Nebraska. Dan Schuldt hosted Dan Spray, Todd Jochum, and I at his family's summer house on Jeffrey Lake, which happens to be five miles from Potter's.
Over the course of the two days we put in about 40 miles of riding on trails ranging from fast and rolling along ridge lines and canyon rims to long flowing sections through scenic lowlands to rocky and extremely technical sections with handlebar-deep trenches.
We learned early on to leave a bit of space between yourself and the rider ahead. The consequences? A faceful or fresh "pasture pudding" left by the inhabitants of the pasture. We also learned quickly to scan the trail ahead for hidden trenches that would jump up and grab a pedal or handlebar.
Some highlights:
- My back blowing out early on in the first day while trying to grunt up a particularly steep climb. That made for some interesting moments off the bike.
- Watching Dan Spray climb a 35% grade. He did, twice, and there are pictures to prove it.
- Watching Todd reach a cadence of about 300 rpm trying to keep up on the road on his singlespeed.
- Good food..
- Good drinks.
- A sweet ride around the lake on Dan Schult's beautiful boat.
- Riding some of the nicest singletrack around with good friends.
It was a great time, and anyone sho has a chance to visit Potter's should.
A special thank you to Potter, for letting us ride in his pasture,to the cows, for tolerating us, and to Dan and Brittini Schuldt for their hospitality.