Black29er wrote on 06/09/12 at 12:34pm:


I rode this section again. It's longer now. Still no sign. Lots of fun to ride. If you like dipsy-dos you will love it. I rode it twice. The second was better because I knew what to expect. I can't wait until it get wore in.

I agree it needs some work. There was a few switchbacks I had trouble with but I think that will improve once it get down to hard dirt and some tweaking.

The trail referenced is called  THUNDER ROAD.   A sign for this new loop has been added and it states that the option is under construction but ridable.   We plan to change this option by changing or eliminating some of the ditch crossings and possibly adding pipe/culverts  to make them safer and faster.  For now, it is HOT and we have to wait for cooler weather to make these changes and add some “fun” areas. Actually a lot has been accomplished on this trail for 3 months work by a few people…..especially when considering Whitewater, Lake Norman and Sherman Branch have been there for years and they have the Tarheel Trailblazers for volunteers.  For now, enjoy riding the completed 6 miles.  We expect to smooth the CURVE & SWERVE option to make it more enjoyable.
Thax for taking time for your comment.  Your opinion is considered to be CONSTRUCTIVE and is appreciated.

Does anyone know if this trail is still being maintained?  Been over a year since my last visit and I'm curious if it's worth the trip.

Yes this trail is getting there.  Has a bunch of potential and previous posts have it well described.  My view is that the topography is underused on most of the trail and then over used on the twisty part to the point of being something you'd do faster on a trick bike.  But over time I think that can be worked out.  Another issue is the limited park hours.  I have done hours of trail work building a 4 mile trail and will help here in the future.

One big bonus to this trail is the soil texture.  It's a fairly sandy loam and dries out pretty quick.  I've been able to get on it soon after rains with no issues.

Got to ride the trail after work this evening.  It is (was before the rain anyway) in great shape!

Notes and several advantages at the Hurley Park trail in Salisbury:
1. It can be rode quicker after rain than about any other trial within 50 miles.   It drains well, drain ditches have been put there...... there is pretty good dirt to handle the water.  Some gullies still need work to handle a lot of constant rain that have happened lately.
2. The total TRAIL trail length  is exactly six miles.   While the primary direction is clock-wise, it can be safely rode in both directions giving a 12 mile ride.  Or, the design allows breaking into shorter lengths/loops giving varying ride lengths.  A permanent map and paper maps are available on 2 kiorsks.
3. The tails is well maintained to keep it clean (downed trees, storms and rains, also stays "blown" in the fall/winter.)
4. All help (and money) is volunteer.  We did not add many "fun" obstacles this summer as was planned.  Maybe we can do this after the hot weather is gone.  There are good signs posted......some signs were given "difficulty ratings" in anticipation of upcoming obstacles but many obstacles are not there yet.  NOTE THE SIGNS/MAPS OR YOU MAY MISS SOME LOOPS.
5. There are several porta-jons (and a nice big restroom near the ball fields) through out the park. You can park in the paved lot near the ball fields or in the large gravel lots.

On your first trip, go straight to the gravel parking lot and park on the left on the far end.  Look for the BIKE TRAIL signs on the left.  The trailhead is 200 yards on the left....on a gravel road that goes to the lake.

It's a good fun ride, nothing dangerous at this point, also good for group rides......30 minutes north of Concord.   It's worth the ride especially of you live north of Charlotte.    Try it and add to your list of rides.

Checked this trail out yesterday and hit it again after work.  A little damp in spots but still rode well.  Is there a number or site to check for whether the trail is open?  Great job on this trail to all that keep it up, you guys have done a lot in a limited amount of space.

Anyone know if it has rained any today or what shape the trail is in.  Live in Statesville, and trying to avoid a trip if it is wet.