I've got to jump in since I'll be Josh's partner in crime in laying this trail out. I'm Brian Malec and have assisted in a few TB trails over the last 20+ years. My last major contribution was in '09/'10 as the project leader for SWDP. Here are more details on Dixie River...
The magic number for this property is 130...
130 acres with 130' of vertical elevation change. Highest point is 710' with the lowest at the Catawba River being 580'. Here is a link with a topo.
Mecklenburg County Parcel ID: 11329102
(You need to Login or Register to view media files and links) As Tom mentioned, we are in a holding pattern until a parking area is built and a major trash clean-up is complete.
PARCEL DISCRIPTION: The property is long and narrow and has a road from Dixie River Road all the way to the river and will be perfect for an emergency exit as well as a great corridor for getting in/out equipment. The highest areas are mostly pine with hardwoods covering the majority of the property (see the aerial photo for the canopy mix). I'd guess it's a 60/40 mix (hardwoods/pine). There are a few areas with large boulders and the terrain is rolling down all the way to the river. The riverfront has a sandy beach with no bank. Unfortunately the view across the water isn't the nicest considering it's right across the Catawba from the Duke Allen Steam Station.
WHAT TO EXPECT: A stacked loop system with at least one flow trail using up every bit of 130 feet elevation. The parking area will be just inside the parcel from Dixie River Road were the topo is flat. An easier beginner loop will be closest to the parking lot. As the elevation drops there will be plenty of room available for fast flow trail with TTF options.
I'm very much looking forward to working with everyone on this project!!! Yet another great opportunity for this club to build a fantastic trail for all facets of the riding community. This property definitely has a lot to offer from beginners all the way up to the BIG hit crowd.
STAY TUNED!!!
-Brian