BikePrairieSpirit Forum Feed

my_bicycle_saved_me started a new topic called My first full PST ride! Ottawa-Iola-Ottawa

2012-05-01 20:12:01 MST

I got in my first full PST ride this past weekend. Ottawa to Iola on Saturday, Iola to Ottawa on Sunday. Nasty weather Sunday, but I was delighted to have done the full ride. This was my first half-century - and then my second half-century!

I'm posting it on my blog in two parts...part 1 is here:

http://yeahthisistheone.wordpress.com/2012/05/01/ottawa-iola-ottawa-via-prairie-spirit-trail-part-i/

...with part 2 to be published shortly.

I met Jay K. in Iola! Great to meet you there Jay, and looking forward to talking with you again and/or riding with you!

Timon of Athens commented on My first full PST ride! Ottawa-Iola-Ottawa

2012-05-02 07:58:36 MST

MBSM,

Thanks for the great write-up. If you have a chance, please leave some specific comments of the businesses so others can easily reference them. I also enjoyed your meeting of the ubiquitous Mr. K. Get to know this man, he is an amazing resource about the trail and most of Allen Co. in general. I still owe him a bottle of wine. )Trust me, Jay, it's staring at me right now.)

I think that part of your fatigue after Colony may have had to do with the trail surface. It seems generally softer there and very "grippy" if slightly damp. It sure makes hitting the asphalt at Iola seem like a dream.

I am looking forward to your second installment.

I also appreciate the nice shout-out on your site. Thank you.

kretzmeier commented on My first full PST ride! Ottawa-Iola-Ottawa

2012-05-02 21:51:09 MST

Congratulations MBSM on your return trip to Ottawa. You are a real trooper. On Sunday morning at church as the rain was coming down in Iola I told my wife that poor biker from Ottawa was most likely taking a vehicle back to Ottawa. I am thrilled to hear you made it back home on the trail. A short trip on the trail can be a walk in the park. Sometimes traveling the entire length of the trail can seem to fall just a little short of a Bear Grylls' Man vs Wild episode. I am anxious to read your Part 2

my_bicycle_saved_me commented on My first full PST ride! Ottawa-Iola-Ottawa

2012-05-06 15:26:46 MST

TofA - Done, left a couple comments. You're welcome for the shout-out, I've loved this site and found it a great help and source of info.

Mr. K - thanks for the kind words! I must admit to wanting to bail out of the ride on Sunday morning, and either just bike home on the highway (granted, still in the rain) or impose upon a friend to pick me up. But, I'm glad I did it.

And you're not at all kidding about the Bear Grylls' Man vs Wild episode. In that rain, I felt like Rambo, in the first movie in the series, climbing up the mountainside in the pouring rain. It bordered on the surreal.

Was great to meet you there in Iola, thanks for saying hello, and it'd be cool if we could talk again on a future ride, either yours into Ottawa or mine into Iola! I know you are eager for your first full-trail ride of the season!

I finally posted part 2. I'm on vacation, hence the delay...

kretzmeier commented on My first full PST ride! Ottawa-Iola-Ottawa

2012-05-09 15:26:38 MST

MBSM,

I enjoyed reading your Part ii. If you ever get that muddy and wet again ( and I hope you don't) and need nourishment in Garnett, ride over to 59 Highway and eat outside in a stall at the Sonic.

A thought comes to me, maybe I will start a tradition here. I will offer to start it when I next ride from Iola to Ottawa. Upon arrival, after resting, and cleaning up I will buy your dinner and give you a report of the ride.

If you would like to take me up on that just call or text my cellphone and leave your contact information. I am uncertain which weekend in the next four I will make the ride, but I will text or call you when I start out of a Saturday morning or am along the way.

my_bicycle_saved_me commented on My first full PST ride! Ottawa-Iola-Ottawa

2012-05-19 04:56:34 MST

Mr. K:

Very sorry for the belated reply. I've been out of town.

I LOVE your idea for establishing a new tradition for us, and I eagerly accept!

I'll text you shortly (left your contact info in the office inadvertently, thought it was in my phone) and we'll get it going! Great idea!

See you guys out there...

Timon of Athens started a new topic called Anybody walked the Bassett to Humboldt link?

2012-04-09 12:12:44 MST

I know that many people have been down this corridor and the elevation map I am preparing lets me know that it is fairly flat.

But...

What's the scenery like?
Are there any services of note near the trail?
I suspect that the terrain is most like the Ottawa/Princeton run, is this correct?
Anybody else preparing for a PST120?

kretzmeier commented on Anybody walked the Bassett to Humboldt link?

2012-04-14 14:16:13 MST

I have walked only parts of it. I would say your Ottawa/Princton comarison is a good one. As you have probably seen on your elevation work there is only about 50 feet of elevation change over the distance. The highest point is probably adjacent to what was called Sinclair Curve on the old highway, proximate to the underpass. Between this area and Iola back to the north,
the trail gets close to one of the first settlements (1855)in Allen County, a town called Cofachique. The settlement has long been abandoned. The current Iola Trailhead at Mile 109 ends at Cofachique Park which was named after the settlement. I believe you will find much of the trail south of the overpass on to Humboldt to be tree lined, open to stong breezes, but nothing like the open territory near mile 94. It will be a couple of weeks yet before I will be able to get out on the trail, but hope to make the Iola Ottawa Iola round trip by mid-May. It's always a two day event for me. The burned bridge at Iola has not yet been repaired, however the snow fences are down and it appears people are passing over it. No paving yet on the Iola extension. 04-14-12.

my_bicycle_saved_me commented on Anybody walked the Bassett to Humboldt link?

2012-04-20 10:42:15 MST

TofA:

Trying to get a picture of when the full course through Humboldt is scheduled to be completed. Can you fill in the blanks in my understanding?

The Iola story posted on 4/9 says "construction of the 1.5 miles of the Prairie Spirit Trail Extension within the city limits of Iola is ahead of schedule." - but I'm not sure what the schedule is/was or when they think this will be done. The 6.3 miles from Bassett to Humboldt is, to my understanding, under construction - but are you aware of any planned timeline for its completion? Another story, also posted 4/9 (the Allen County one) refers to the Sunflower grant covering 4.5 miles of the (I think Humboldt) part of the trail, and I get the impression from that article that the final 1.5 miles is still being negotiated.

Is any portion of this additional ~8ish miles actually navigable by bike now? Or is it off limits?

Sorry for my inability to put the pieces together, just trying to understand what their planned timeline is, if there IS a stated one...

RE your question, I'm doing my first Ottawa-Iola (or further if possible)-Ottawa trip in late May, but it's a two-day affair. Not yet in the shape to do a 120-mile ride.

Timon of Athens commented on Anybody walked the Bassett to Humboldt link?

2012-04-22 12:23:52 MST

MBSM:

Here's the best I can do.

The extension within Iola between the parks was partly funded by stimulus money and should be complete within the next few weeks. It extends the trail about 1.1 miles from Chofachique Park to Riverside Park. This is nice because the trail now ends right by a big parking lot with a public pool and showers.

Continuing the trail to Humboldt is a work in progress. The funding is being developed (mainly by Thrive Allen County) and partially there. As far as I know, no work has been scheduled. However, as far as I have seen the right-of-way is not blocked and the roadbed looks passable by a hydrid or mountain bike. If anyone know differently, I how that they post to the thread. I haven't had time to contact Trent, the trail manager, but feel free.

Hope this helps.

JD_Shawnee commented on Anybody walked the Bassett to Humboldt link?

2012-05-18 08:24:12 MST

Set out to ride part of the PST Thursday. But my late start from home caused me to pass on it at the last minute since I would return late evening. So I checked the extension work in Iola instead.

Looks to me like the trail has been road-graded from the end-of-trail barricade/sign at the State-Street Cofachique park down to the north end of Riverside Park, about a mile further south past Madison Street. Much of the ballast rock in this 1-mile section has been wind-rowed to the sides of the corridor, leaving a flat but fairly rough trail surface in between them. This graded section has also been paved over a street or two. Could it be ready for limestone screenings, or pavement like at the north side? ?

I couldn�t see any development further south than that. The rest of the corridor south of Iola looks untouched to me. But it also looks well-treed and probably suitable for hiking or mountain biking as mentioned by others already. Chow.

Timon of Athens started a new topic called Best section of the trail for a neophyte?

2012-05-10 12:21:59 MST

I have had a spat of e-mails asking this question. I know what my answer is and have it as a stock "cut and paste" at this point, but I thought it would be a good question to throw out to the forums.

So....

What's your favorite section of the trail for beginning cyclist? Why? And as a related question, how do you help prepare them for such a trip?

JD_Shawnee commented on Best section of the trail for a neophyte?

2012-05-15 08:35:12 MST

New users might start at the middle of the trail in Garnett. For one thing, they will see the old-depot trailhead there which is also close to public lakes/parks and the downtown business square.

From there, going north or south shows what this trail is about (nature, country & prairie). For example, the wooded sections southward to Welda give a much nature and wildlife early or late in the day. Northward from Garnett gives the same thing plus the big creeks and bridges.

Because this trail has shade and trailheads, it is easier to ride than long-term road tours. Still, new riders can train ahead by riding distances of 20-40 miles near their homes. These rides will bring out any weaknesses on their bikes. Doesn�t hurt for them to carry extra water, snack/energy food, spare inner-tubes, pump, flat-tire tools, first-aid stuff, cyclometer, and pepper spray..just in case, and a camera too.

kretzmeier started a new topic called Bridge Repaired and other news

2012-05-10 20:11:31 MST

The burned bridge north of mile marker 108 near Iola has now been repaired. The supports have been sandblasted
and examined and today the sides of the bridge were installed. The trail is now fully navigable at this location.

A Thrive Allen County meeting was held this evening to organize a group to spearhead the development of the trail from Iola to Humboldt. Next week the group of about 12 persons intends to travel the distance on 4-wheelers to assess what work may be needed. Early estimates report that 600 tons of limestone screenings would need to be put in place. The trail rights for this leg are reported to be held by the Sunflower Rails to Trails Conservancy.

A local powerered parachute and photography enthusiast is being consulted in hopes of obtaining low in-flight photographs of this portion of the former railroad. If this happens and I can get a hold of them I will send them to BSP.C

Timon of Athens started a new topic called New elevation map installed

2012-04-27 09:57:51 MST

As I have never been excited by the old map, the new extensions have made me put together a new one. I think that it reads a little easier and really pulls the page together.

Timon of Athens commented on New elevation map installed

2012-05-10 12:17:09 MST

Fairly major update to the elevation page.

I have included elevation maps for the individual legs of the trail. I hope that this will make clearer the "How much more do I have to climb?" thoughts that one often has during a ride. The chart came pretty easily since I have the data sitting around from creating the complete chart.

I am thinking of making downloadable charts based on the mile markers. Does that sound of used to anyone?

Check it out and pass on your thoughts.

my_bicycle_saved_me started a new topic called Great stay for P.S. Trail ride into Iola

2012-05-06 15:21:08 MST

Stayed at the Best Western Saturday night of a 2-day weekend Ottawa-Iola-Ottawa round-trip.

Great place to stay after a long ride, friendly service, clean comfortable rooms, great included breakfast - excellent place to stay. Extremely convenient, with the parking lot being literally feet away from the Iola trailhead portion of the trail.

Will be my main overnight stop in Iola during future trail rides.

my_bicycle_saved_me started a new topic called Had Saturday lunch at Tradewinds

2012-05-06 15:18:08 MST

Ate lunch at Tradewinds the weekend of April 28th (2012). Arrived at 11 AM on Saturday, their opening time. Nice enough little bar & grill, with friendly small-town service and patrons.

Got the cheeseburger with fries - nice stop in the middle of a long ride from Ottawa to Iola (with the return trip the following day).

Waitress cheerfully refilled my Camelbak with ice-water, and a couple patrons asked after my origin and destination, wishing me luck on the remainder of my ride as I headed back out.

Timon of Athens started a new topic called Time to get high-tech.

2011-12-08 14:21:18 MST

I am starting to look into getting a bike Garmin to replace my cycle computer. The problem is I don't even know what to start looking at and what I should be looking for.

So.....

what have you been using and what seems to be the best feature. What could you live without? What is a necessity?

Finally, where have you seen the best prices?

JoeBlake commented on Time to get high-tech.

2012-03-18 00:16:43 MST

Have you found a GPS yet? What did you decide to go with?

I have one of the early etrex models that cost about $100 ten years ago. It doesn't show maps and streets, but is it great for hiking and bike riding, and there is a mount to put it right on your bike handlebars. It is kind of klunky looking, it has worked well, but the display is gradually getting enough blank lines in it that it is scarcely readable anymore.

I was thinking of replacing it with one of the watch-style GPS units -- reasoning I can wear it whether biking or walking. Do you, or does anyone have any reccomendations or experience with those?

Timon of Athens commented on Time to get high-tech.

2012-03-19 07:14:45 MST

I haven't got one yet, JB. Every time I'm close to pulling the trigger I hear rumors of something GREAT coming out.

Either that or the place stops selling them. I might have to resort to Amazon.

StacieParks commented on Time to get high-tech.

2012-03-21 15:31:07 MST

Hello!
I am looking for a good GPS device also.
I am leaning more towards the watch style since my bike computer seems to get out of whack quite frequently.
I don't think they're too expensive either.

rebelLT commented on Time to get high-tech.

2012-03-27 08:46:25 MST

Do you have a smart phone? Droid and iphone apps are availabe for GPS, geocaching, etc. I assume a good GPS app would be able to track you average speeds etc. Plus why not just carry one device (phone) instead of a phone, gps, camera etc. There may even be a biking type app available and I am sure someone sells mounts for the handlebar somewhere. There are also portable battery chargers available for smartphones. I just carry my phone in a bag and take it out as I need it, mostly for directions, as I am not as concerned with my times or speeds.

rebelLT commented on Time to get high-tech.

2012-03-27 08:50:21 MST

Here is a news story of several bike apps for the droid.

http://theappwhisperer.com/2011/05/08/top-10-android-bike-apps/

my_bicycle_saved_me commented on Time to get high-tech.

2012-03-27 18:46:46 MST

rebelLT brought up a point I wanted to make but was afraid of sounding foolish because I am still a newbie.

In the age of smartphones, I'm not sure I grasp the value in having a separate cyclecomputer, and if I'm missing something I'd like to understand it better.

I use the Android app Endomondo - there are probably jazzier ones but this one does ok for me. It is a free app (pro edition costs but the free version is, in my opinion, awesome), has GPS tracking, you can track a "workout" (i.e. a route) and it monitors average speed, top speed, lap time per mile, elevation, elevation change (up / down), etc. Tracks calories burned if that is of value to you.

The real funk behind this app is the website. The app itself I view as just the input - something to capture the info as you ride - but the website allows you to view and slice & dice this data many different ways. You can track your personal bests in many respects - fastest mile, furthest distance in X minutes, furthest distance overall, total miles per day, week, month, year, etc...I think the app is incredible. My understanding is that if you integrate a heart monitor with it, it'll track that as well. I am not sure if that is available in the free version or only the pro version.

The only hesitation I had at one point is battery life. Smartphones have improved leaps & bounds but battery life has barely improved in years. When I run Endomondo during my ride plus Pandora for streaming music, the phone used to die, from fully charged, in less than 2 hours. But I solved it satisfactorily by buying an extended battery on Amazon. In fact, I bought two. They are only a few bucks, and the battery life is very roughly (I haven't done detailed analysis) at LEAST 1.5 times as long and maybe 2x as long or more. So bottom line, with 2 of those batteries, plus the original the phone came with, I have literally 8-10 *solid* hours of battery life running apps that really chew it up. That'll get you through a pretty long cycling day, even if you cannot charge anytime during the day.

So, my $.02 is, if you go the Android route, just get an extended battery. It'll last you hours even if you're eating up battery life.

Timon of Athens commented on Time to get high-tech.

2012-05-02 08:06:57 MST

Just a slight thread bump here.

Looks like I am zeroing in on a Garmin Edge 800. It has everything that I am looking for. You can pre-program a route or just bring up a map to figure out where you are. It records you trek for later downloading also. As someone who often just heads out to explore new backroads, all these feature will be very helpful. I am opting out of the heart monitor, cadence monitor, etc because 1) I don't care about those things as I am not in competition and 2) they add about 200 clams to a very expensive toy.

Has anyone checked these out or is there something that I am missing? Let me know. The siren call grows louder.

Timon

my_bicycle_saved_me started a new topic called Rode 1/4th of the trail today (Ottawa to almost-Richmond)

2012-04-19 20:38:27 MST

Rode Ottawa to just a little north of Richmond on the trail, then took the cross-road to Highway 59 and back to Ottawa.

Wrote it up here:

http://yeahthisistheone.wordpress.com/2012/04/19/return-to-prairie-spirit-stretching-my-wind-legs/

Was beautiful to be back on the trail again, it's been quite some time for me. Greening up beautifully, with several different kinds of flowers, which I wish I could identify but cannot. Saw a rabbit, couple squirrels, the biggest freakin' dog I have ever seen (no exaggeration) and a cat.

Trail is good and firm, no difficulties on it at all. I'm starting to feel confident I can complete my first Ottawa-Iola-Ottawa trip soon (albeit, spread over two days, i.e. Ottawa-Iola followed by Iola-Ottawa). For some of you old vets, this is no major deal, but it's exciting for me.

I saw zero cyclists on the trail, even the paved portion in town. I passed a couple joggers on the paved portion, and on the gravel portion I passed a couple with their dog who were returning to their car maybe midway between Ottawa & Princeton, and a lady jogging northbound just north of the Princeton Trailhead.

Despite the ominous weather it was an incredible day for a PST ride, and I found myself really wishing I hadn't needed to work earlier today, allowing me to get on the trail much earlier and shoot for a much longer trip. All in good time.

my_bicycle_saved_me started a new topic called Your first planned PST ride of the season?

2012-04-01 05:21:22 MST

So (assuming none of us has actually ridden the full trail yet this season), are there any plans anyone has to bike the full trail this season? If so when?

My story is described in a previous thread. I was (still am) quite overweight and started cycling to help lose weight & get in shape. I set a goal to bike the Katy Trail by 11/30 and the PS Trail by 6/30. My plan is to bike the full trail from Ottawa (my hometown) to Iola; stay the night in Iola; bike back the next day.

I still don't have a firm date in mind to do this (I need to get in better shape yet; I couldn't do this today just by deciding to do it) but I'm thinking possibly around the third week in May or MAYBE Memorial Day weekend (28th).

Anyone else have near-term PST plans in mind?

JD_Shawnee commented on Your first planned PST ride of the season?

2012-04-02 04:29:02 MST

Good plan.

You have the right idea about getting into shape. That along with weight loss might come slower than hoped for. But it does happen. Ones body toughens up within big-time. Also, once into bicycling shape, you don�t lose it fast. In short, not riding for a while won�t hurt you. Thus your June date is well within reason.

Personally I�ve had a weak winter routine this year. But my 20-mile back-of-the-house with-hill rides are getting me into trail shape rather quickly. Because I seldom do overnighters, I mostly do day rides on the PST and similar trails when I can get away for them. Your two-day PST plan will work okay. It will allow you to enjoy the nature there.

At this point you�ll probably want to accomplish the ride itself. You can try for speed records later. :) Enjoy.

rebelLT commented on Your first planned PST ride of the season?

2012-04-08 19:42:57 MST

Good to have goals. Just ride at your own pace and enjoy. I myself just got the cast removed from a broken leg and am back to ground zero. Did eight miles on the commuter bike today. Felt good to be on the bike again. Hope to be doing twenty five miles by next week. Fifty by the end of the month. The key is to stop and enjoy the ride. That's why I like rail trails. I can ride all day at my own pace, stopping to see things along the way.

rebelLT started a new topic called Connecting Trails?

2012-03-27 08:02:34 MST

I am planning a ride for mid April and was wondering if the Flint Hills trail connects fairly easily to the Prairie Spirit Trail. I can�t find much info about the connection on the net. It looks to me like I would have to make my way west through Ottawa on city streets for a couple of city blocks and this is acceptable as I plan on stopping in Ottawa for a few hours anyway. My tentative plan is to start early near Osawatomie and stop in Ottawa for lunch and some distractions. I plan on staying overnight in Garnett and making Iola the next morning. I will be riding a cruiser tandem with a ten year old girl so we only manage about 8 MPH on such trips to do to the multiple stops for rest/water/fuel/distractions required. We travel fairly light with only one rack bag and a handlebar bar for water/snacks/and essentials so I am assuming there will be some access to water along the way. Has anyone ridden this route before? Any suggestions?

Timon of Athens commented on Connecting Trails?

2012-03-27 08:45:21 MST

Hello rebelLT.

The best Flint Hills Connection in Ottawa is at 7th Street. If you are coming from Osawatomie it's where the trail kind of ends. Just turn left and enjoy a low traffic residential street for several blocks. After a stoplight, you will run into the PST. If you want to see downtown Ottawa, turn right. Otherwise, there will be plenty of places to rest/eat on the south edge of town.

As for provisions, they are few and far between on the FHNT. Make sure you have plenty of water for the 18 miles to Ottawa. Your best shot for provisions along the way is in Rantoul. There is a small metal building with several vending machines on Vermont Rd. Once you hit the PST there is water at most trailheads and plenty of other places for food.

Hope this helps.

my_bicycle_saved_me commented on Connecting Trails?

2012-03-27 18:34:09 MST

TofA:

This is interesting to me, I am interested to check out this trail (at least the 18 miles that, to my understanding, has a consistency similar to the PST and connects Ottawa to Osawatomie - is my understanding correct?)

Where at 7th street (or where-ish) does the FHNT intersect 7th in Ottawa? What's the cross road or a near cross road? Do I understand correctly that if I turn left (west) onto 7th from Main Street, that the FHNT will be on my right at some point?

Thanks in advance for the help and rebelLT, thanks for the question. I'd heard of the FHNT previously but never really looked much into it.

Bill

Timon of Athens commented on Connecting Trails?

2012-03-27 20:00:29 MST

Well MBSM,

The closest cross road South Mason Street. You can check out the map at

http://bikeprairiespirit.com/ottawa/flinthills.php

The map also shows you where the trail should cross the PST in the future when the city completes the trail through town.

The surface is quite similar to the PST in most places and it's flatter! There are one or two places that have been plowed under by farmers at one time so it is like you are pedaling across a field. Otherwise, it is quite enjoyable. The sections that follow the Marais de Cygnes are pretty wonderful and offer better shade than the PST.

Hope this helps.

JD_Shawnee commented on Connecting Trails?

2012-03-27 20:08:17 MST

We assume you�re from Osawatomie or you guys will have a support vehicle with you. Otherwise, parking there could be a problem since the trail's entrance gate is about 2-miles out from town on John Brown Road. It is remote, not lit, not a real trailhead, and probably not patrolled. Not good. Parking in Osawatomie might be best in patrolled areas in town or at the high-school?

Other info: when turning west on 7th Street in Ottawa, you'll intersect the PST trail straight west on 7th Street about 2-blocks west of Main. You'll see the business district at Main.

Also, some of the earlier FHNT websites have been recently combined with less info and fewer maps. But this section between Osawatomie and Ottawa is a decent trail, lots of nature there. It is hard-packed, but not as wide or well-crowned as the PST. A good place to train for the PST. Additionally, the cafe at Rantoul is open only on weekends, Fri evening thru Sunday lunch, last heard last year.

Best places to eat on the PST are in Ottawa, Garnett, Colony, and Iola with a few convenience stops between.

I'm currently training for both trails. jd

my_bicycle_saved_me commented on Connecting Trails?

2012-03-28 08:34:46 MST

Ok I got it, thanks guys. I had it exactly backward - rather than turn west off of Main to meet up with the FHNT, you turn east.

I scouted it out this morning before work (granted, nearly dark out so I couldn't tell too much). For those interested, after you come off the FHNT into Ottawa, as TofA mentioned above, you turn left (which is west) headed toward town. You'll go a few blocks. The first maybe quarter mile or so of that is sort of rough - hard dirt and large-ish rocks/pebbles, so be cautious biking over that.

That terrain ends quickly though, yielding to paved road, at which point you have the "right of way" (cross streets have stop signs while you don't) for most or all of the way on up to Main Street. As mentioned earlier, if you then want to turn onto Main for food or whatever, you can; or if you want to just continue straight to the Prairie Spirit Trail, you just cross Main and go a very short distance (seconds of cycling) before the PS Trail cuts across the road you're on - 7th street - heading north/south. The Ottawa start of the trail is then less than a mile to your north, with the rest of the trail stretching south.

Thanks for the info on this trail guys. Now that I know where this is, I intend to explore it shortly :)

rebelLT commented on Connecting Trails?

2012-03-28 08:45:15 MST

I am actually from the Pittsburg area though I have heard about the big O trail head before. when I do these kind of rides I throw my bikes and my sons enduro motorcycle in the pickup and drive to the trailhead. My son drops me off, then takes my pickup to my destination and leaves it there. He takes the cycle out and drives home. I give him 50 or 100 bucks depending on how far he has to drive and a few bucks for his gas. So it works out OK for everyone. I have an old pickup with nothing valuable inside so I dont worry about thefts or damage much. I usually have him leave it in the lot of a twenty four hour store like a wal-mart. The trailhead in IOLA is near the trailhead. Thanks for all the info about the FH trail. I would like to ride it west someday, though I get the impression that it will be some time before that happens.

JD_Shawnee commented on Connecting Trails?

2012-03-28 18:57:46 MST

Good plan.

Yeah, it'll be a while before we can do FHNT all the way west. Yet this eastern section has a lot of cover being close to the river.

Timon of Athens started a new topic called Recent Updates

2012-03-26 18:05:04 MST

I have started to include information on the soon to be completed Iola Extension and the not-sp-soon to be completed Humboldt Extension.

If you have suggestions for businesses that would be of interest to cyclists, let me know in this thread. Photos are also helpful since I live 80 miles from that end of the trail. Kretzmeier has helpfully supplied one for Basset

General question I have is does anyone know where the trail will end in Humboldt. From the big pile of trash and continued existence of rails I am guessing at Hawaii Road.

JD_Shawnee started a new topic called Closed

2011-09-15 05:46:02 MST

Denise's is now closed for retirement. Sign on the door thanks everyone for their business. Where will this crowd eat?

JD_Shawnee commented on Denise's Cafe Closed in Garnett

2011-09-17 11:15:48 MST

Might add I had a satisfying lunch at Los Mezcaleros, a few doors west of Denise�s. Lunch plates include refried beans, Spanish rice, basket of chips, large bowl of thick red sauce, and one entree for $4.95. I had the chalupa with a tall glass of soda; $6.75 total w/tax.

Still, I wonder about the early morning crowd. Might be a void there unless this crowd goes to Colony for an early breakfast or country/home cooking. Maybe someone will reopen it? See you all next year. :)

Timon of Athens commented on Closed

2011-09-19 07:13:34 MST

Thanks JD.

I have made the appropriate changes to the database. You might want to comment directly on Mezcaleros on their page.

Timon

JD_Shawnee commented on Closed

2011-09-20 08:08:05 MST

You're right. I'll do that better next time. I'm slowly getting the hang of your site. Thanks.

JoeBlake commented on Closed

2012-03-18 00:23:50 MST

There is another restaurant on the south side of 5th Street, just west of where Denise's was called the Coffee Loft. They open at 6:30 and have a decent breakfast for $4.50. They are closed Tuesdays, and close mid-afternoon (no dinner) every day except Friday and Saturday they are open until 8PM

It is a good breakfast stop, though.

my_bicycle_saved_me started a new topic called Introduction

2012-03-07 12:09:01 MST

Hello all, wanted to make quick intro.

I just joined the site today although I've been visiting for a while.

I live in Ottawa and took up cycling some months ago as a means to lose weight. I was very out of shape - still am, but getting there. I found that I have a love for cycling. I'm planning to bike the full PST by June 30th, stay overnight in Iola area, and bike back the next day. For many of you here this wouldn't be a major accomplishment, but trust me, for me it's huge :) Then, by November 30th, I plan to bike the full Katy Trail (one way only).

I have a cycling blog which has been a little light on updates lately due to weather and also because I caught a cold/flu and have been unable to ride for some time. If you care to check it out, it's http://yeahthisistheone.wordpress.com .

I wanted also to make sure you were ok with the manner in which I "borrowed" the trail map to the left, for my initial PST page. If you aren't ok with this, I understand, I will change it!

Anyway - just wanted to introduce myself and say hello, I LOVE this hobby, and I'm looking forward to "meeting" folks here (either in real life or only on the boards). See you out there!

Bill

Timon of Athens commented on Introduction

2012-03-07 16:36:09 MST

Hello My_Bike!

Welcome to the forums. Good to see that you've stepped up from lurking. I am looking forward to what you have to say from an Ottawan's perspective.

A trip up and down the PST is quite an accomplishment in its own right, glad to see that you are preparing yourself for it. As I tell my wife, "All you have to do is keep pedaling." I would shoot for an calm overcast day or a day that predicts highs in the 70s or lower 80s. It really makes the route shorter, especially between Welda and Colony where there is NO cover.

As for your KATY trip, I have been at many times of the year, but the best was when I went last year in early October. Perfect temperature and the leaves had just changed an were starting to fall, but not enough to make the trail covered and slippery. If you need recommendations for placed to stay, I can name a few places.

I have looked at your blog and quite enjoyed it. I have not seen your use of the map graphic. If your could post a direct link, I can check it out and give you an okay. The graphic was created for this site but is about to change. I am getting ready to add in the extension to Humboldt.

ToA

my_bicycle_saved_me commented on Introduction

2012-03-07 16:53:28 MST

ToA:

Thanks for the suggestions on the PST ride. I'll take them :) I've been doing a fair amount of research in preparation, much of it on your great site here.

RE the Katy trip - exactly the timing I had in mind. My goal is to have it done by 11/30, but I've been fairly sure that I will go during the month of October. Does sound like a great time for that route.

RE the direct link to the page on the site - here it is: http://yeahthisistheone.wordpress.com/2012/01/09/prairie-spirit-dreaming/ . I wanted to make sure you were cool with the graphic (which obviously borrows from yours here), but if you aren't, I'll change it.

Once again, thanks for your great site, and looking forward to contributing here & interacting!

Bill

Timon of Athens commented on Introduction

2012-03-07 18:24:51 MST

Thanks for the kudos.

I have no problem with you using the graphic you have there.

As to the Katy, it's getting hard to predict the weather but you might want to make sure that you double check the services if you get any later than mid-October. Lots of services start to close down for the season. The trail restrooms closed November 2nd last year.

http://mostateparks.com/park/katy-trail-state-park is great to check for trail closures. It's good to know because they can throw a MAJOR monkey wrench into your day. Of course, bikekatytrail.com is indispensable.

gugu started a new topic called Ride Report 2/19/2012

2012-02-19 17:27:34 MST

Rode from Ottawa to Garnett with a hybrid bike with 700*32 tires, it was very soft so soft that by the time I got to Ritcmond I was beat up just like riding uphill the whole way, I was hard headed and head it to Garnett it was little better but still sinking a lot. I made it back to Richmond completely done :) could not finish to Ottawa. I guess I am a little out shape but it was fun, and well a total 100% work out 37 miles total; was going for 60 maybe next time.

Timon of Athens commented on Ride Report 2/19/2012

2012-02-20 12:12:10 MST

Welcome to the forums gugu!

A soft trail can be a killer. My last century attempt on the trail came to a grinding halt when the skies opened up and the resulting downpour, while brief, made the ten miles into Iola miserable. Until you get into Summer and the trails is well-baked, it seemes to be a hazard worth considering before you head out.

my_bicycle_saved_me commented on Ride Report 2/19/2012

2012-03-07 12:12:10 MST

Hi gugu:

I also rode on the trail, the prior day, 2/18. I rode only roughly 12ish miles on the trail (a total of 29 miles that day, with the rest being on Highway 59), but I agree, the trail was a LOT softer than I bargained for. I'm very out of shape, currently, and it was VERY hard work for me.

I've only recently started cycling, so I've not yet had the joy of riding the trail when it's good and baked as TofA mentions - but I sure am looking forward to it! Biking on that soft trail is a killer for me.

kretzmeier started a new topic called Bike not put up and I'm so..... glad.

2011-12-31 16:27:03 MST

I usually put my bike up for the year at the end of October. This year for several reasons I hadn't. Here comes the last day of the year and the weather, while a bit windy, is sunny and in the 60's. I just had to get one more use out of that 2011 Trail permit! It was really neat to ride the trail on Dec. 31st. I rode north of Carlye with my daughter. I was able to take a winter photo of the Lumberman's Cement remains. Maybe Timon can put it to use. It will be my work, not weather that will now keep me off the trail til May. Darn it anyway, but how grateful I am for today.

Timon of Athens commented on Bike not put up and I'm so..... glad.

2011-12-31 19:25:08 MST

Glad you were able to get a ride in today, Jay. Wish that I could have been there.

As for your picture, it has made the Lumberman's page finally possible. You can find it off the Carlyle page.

Happy New Year!

Timon

Timon of Athens started a new topic called Looking for picture of Bassett and Humboldt

2011-12-27 10:44:07 MST

I am currently preparing pages for Basset and Humboldt in preparation for the opening of the new section of the trail. Unfortunately, I have no pictures for these pages.

Does anyone have some good pictures of the trail for these two areas, preferably from the areas that the trailhead would be. I am looking for hi-res jpegs at least 600 pixels wide. I will give you full credit for the pictures if you so desire. If you want to submit pictures, you may send them to me directly at admin@bikeprairiespirit.com.

tclong03 started a new topic called chrismas break ride

2011-12-13 20:13:15 MST

Looking to try a ride during chritmas break with a couple hybrids and one road bike. Maybe a 50 one day and 50 back the next. Any suggestions on bikes able to do it and maybe some camping spots if not just stay in cheap hotel. Maybe starting at south side and back there next day. Thanks in advance.
Tim

Timon of Athens commented on chrismas break ride

2011-12-13 21:01:19 MST

If your looking for a 50/50, you might want to go out and back from Garnett. There are a lot of camping spots there in the parks. Ottawa doesn't have camping in their parks but Iola has a pretty good RV park with camping sites.

Rocky started a new topic called hiking

2011-12-02 17:06:15 MST

I have never biked the trail, but I have jog/hiked it (split up in two days). I now live in Iola and have been hiking on the trail,in smaller sections however. A month after I moved here I broke my leg really bad and am just now getting to where I can walk about 6 miles without too much pain. I don't see many hikers on the trail, which is a shame, but I would like to encourage more to come. Thank you for your page.

PS. I have noticed several wild animals, including a coyote one time,a couple deer, and the usual squirrels and rabbits, etc. Do you know of any dangers in this area?

Timon of Athens commented on hiking

2011-12-05 08:59:36 MST

Welcome to the forums, Rocky.

I see people walking the trail almost every time I am out on it. Mostly it tends to be nearer the larger towns, Garnett and Ottawa. Most hikers I see are between Garnett and the bridge over Pottawatomie Creek.

As for dangerous wildlife, the most danger I have ever been in on the trail was when a stray cow decide to plant herself right in the middle of it. I had to stop and get off my bike and wait for her to get spooked and run down the trail. The opposite way. Took me 1/2 an hour to cover 100 yards.

JD_Shawnee commented on hiking

2011-12-07 15:53:21 MST

No animal dangers exist on this trail as far as I know unless a stray dog or cow comes from out of nowhere, rare if at all. The coyotes, fox, and bobcats do not run in packs neither. So they�re safe.

Any potential dangers might simply be an accident, muscle sprain, foot puncture, dehydration, heat exhaustion, sunburn, lightning, bad storm/wind, falling branch/debris, snake/insect bite, traffic at road crossovers, or wild women, the latter of which I haven�t seen any although some could exist in the Garnett area.

Otherwise, the wildlife, wild-plants, mulberries, and trailheads on the trail are fabulous as you already know by now.

Rocky commented on hiking

2011-12-09 00:54:25 MST

Thanks. I don't know, coyotes just freak me out. My son and I were camping a couple months ago and decided to sleep outside under the stars. He slept fine, despite the cries of the coyotes all night. I woke at every sound!

I read that they don't attack...but they sure could scare the pee out of me!

JD_Shawnee commented on hiking

2011-12-09 14:20:23 MST

Ha. You had a good outdoor experience.

In the spring and early summer, the coyotes will run together as a family until the juveniles are mostly grown. If you were to get too close to their juveniles, the parents might growl at you. However, they will always see us long before we see them, after which they are quick to run or hide.

I�ve seen coyotes in trail side-corridors or way out in front of me. They�re usually alone, and are quick to duck into the brush.

They�ve also been hunted a lot. And they seem to know it. So they avoid humans any way they can. Poison ivy is more dangerous to trail-users than the coyotes are.

Timon of Athens started a new topic called 10/23/2011

2011-10-23 09:39:35 MST

It's a glorious day. I just got back from a ride. If you haven't gotten out on the trail yet, this may be your last chance for good weather.

Man, it's beautiful out there.

JD_Shawnee started a new topic called Ride Report for 6/15/2011: Ottawa - Iola - and back

2011-06-19 10:49:49 MST

Did the whole trail and back Wed (6/15). 13-hr total time is not great on a perfect mild day with perfect trail conditions. The trail was firm from end to end. Saw three bicyclists outside the city limits. Most activity was within them on this weekday.

The wildflowers were blooming big-time with more on the way. Although I have good references for identifying them, there were so many this time I got them mixed up. Also, there were too many varieties of each kind plus many were intermingled with each other and with other plants as well. One must be a biologist to discern them correctly by knowing all of their flower and leaf characteristics.

Overall speed = 10.2-mph (via ride time; return trip was slowest). I also had an early lunch at the Greenery in Iola. Not bad at all! Tasty. Will do their buffet next time. jd

ZmanKC commented on Ride Report for 6/15/2011: Ottawa - Iola - and back

2011-10-03 19:20:47 MST

Rode the entire trail on Sunday, Sept.25th.

Weather was fine, a little on the cool side. Trail condition was beat up in spots. Holes and cracks. Fallen leaves made it a bit dicey and I did hit a hole that was covered with leaves. Tire later flatted so I got to change a tire.

Biggest problem was not bringing enough food. I wasn't able to find any place to refuel, even in Garnett so the last 15 miles were tough.

Timon of Athens commented on Ride Report for 6/15/2011: Ottawa - Iola - and back

2011-10-05 07:48:29 MST

First off, welcome to the forums ZmanKC.

Sundays can be tough on the trail. I usually head over to the highway in Garnett and hit Sonic or a convenience store to get me through the last 25 miles or so.

Glad you had a good ride.

JD_Shawnee commented on Ride Report for 6/15/2011: Ottawa - Iola - and back

2011-10-05 16:40:12 MST

A Dairy Queen also exists on the eastside of the highway further west of the town square.

Garnett also has a Casey�s close to the trail at the north end of town on Park Road, where the paved section of the trail ends at the flashing-light stop sign. It's about 2-blocks west of there. They could be open on Sundays?

Timon of Athens started a new topic called Ride Report Garnett - Iola -Garnett - Ottawa -

2011-10-05 07:40:20 MST

Found this on an external site. Lots of nice pictures.

http://www.eons.com/groups/topic/2622039-Prairie-Spirit-Trail

JD_Shawnee started a new topic called Two cool days on the PSRT

2011-09-17 10:37:17 MST

9/14&16. Finished my two separate-day ride of the PSRT yesterday (72 & 32-miles w/short turnabouts, side-trips, and a lunch in Garnett). The shorter ride Friday gave me more time to enjoy the early-fall country settings. Super!

The trails surface is firm. The department has done a great job of 1) filling its cracks, 2) posting surface-change advisories at the trailheads, and 3) fencing off the damaged bridge in Iola. I took the shorter detour there (west on Oregon Rd, and then south on State Ave), which went well. These roads are wide and easy to ride.

The cool north winds were challenging both times, but seeing the corridor filled with gobs of late foliage made it worthwhile. I�ll need a season pass next year to cut my expenses. :)

Timon of Athens commented on Two cool days on the PSRT

2011-09-19 07:15:50 MST

Sounds like a great trip.

Real life is keeping me away from the trail right now, but is good to hear that it's in good shape.

I am still hoping for a century attempt before snow hits the ground.

JD_Shawnee commented on Two cool days on the PSRT

2011-09-20 08:15:14 MST

Yeah, it was great. The corridor was much more lush than I expected it to be. Apparently, the summer heat affected only the trail's surface.

Good luck on your proposed ride. The cooler weather is a huge bonus.

JD_Shawnee started a new topic called 44-Mile FHNT Warmup for the PSRT

2011-09-09 08:28:34 MST

9/8/2011 As a warm-up to the Prairie Spirit, I rode to Osawatomie and back to Ottawa Thursday. Perfect weather; nice ride.

Saw the usual greenery, deer, squirrels, fox, butterflies, late-flowers, birds, crows, and hawks. One hawk flew down in front of me twice with a small catch in its beak. It seemed proud, like it wanted somebody to see its prize. Also encountered one hiker and one bicycler who was taking pictures.

Spiders: ran into several spider threads and webs hanging vertically and horizontally across the trail, outbound. Pulled 3 or more of them off my helmet and shirt. Much fewer on the return ride. :)

Trail cracks: most of the trail�s cracks and small cave-ins ran down the center of the trail or down one of its tracks. They were easy to avert. However, the upcoming autumn leaves could hide many of them, soon. Be careful!

Otherwise, the trail is in great shape. Several of the road-crossing gate chains are now covered with plastic pipe, ringed with red reflective tape.

Rantoul. The Soft Rock Caf� there has posted a second sign for its weed-end hours:
Fri 4pm-8pm buffet
Sat 7am-4pm menu, 4pm-8pm buffet
Sun 7am-2pm menu except 3rd Sun which is a breakfast buffet.

Osawatomie. Rode the extra 2.5-miles from the semi-trailers to the business district, which is nicely done. Didn�t see a walk-in caf� there at first glance. So, stopped at Casey�s instead for a giant piece of Canadian-bacon pizza and a frosted pinwheel donut.

Now for the Prairie Spirit as a century or two 51's. :)

Timon of Athens commented on 44-Mile FHNT Warmup for the PSRT

2011-09-11 09:42:01 MST

It's good to hear that the trail is in good shape. I plan to do the 44 miler in the organized ride on October 1st.

I also hope to get a century in on the PST in late October.

I can dream, right?

JD_Shawnee commented on 44-Mile FHNT Warmup for the PSRT

2011-09-12 08:34:45 MST

Yeah Timon. Dreaming and imagining has a lot to do with it I think. Otherwise, I wouldn�t ride the trails much at all.

More than likely, I�ll do two 51-milers on the PSRT instead of a century. Always constraints of some kind for centuries, like, too much peach cobbler in my diet right now.

Your Oct-1 group ride should be fun. With luck, the trail will get rain before then to help close those fairly big cracks in it. Do watch for them. They�re big enough to cause wrecks or damage bike wheels bad.

Hope you�ll comment on the ride and caf�. Good riding!

Timon of Athens commented on 44-Mile FHNT Warmup for the PSRT

2011-09-13 12:07:18 MST

Well, if Ottawa ever gets its act together and finishes the FHNT through town and connects it to the PST, I am ready to extend the coverage of this site to Rantoul and Osawatamie along with points south as the PST move in that direction.

Timon of Athens started a new topic called Organized ride on Flint Hills Nature Trail October 1st

2011-09-09 05:42:57 MST

I am planning on being there for the 7:00 am ride to Ottawa and back. I am using it as a tune-up for a Katy ride the next weekend. Hope to see some others there. Anyone interested?

More information here.

Timon of Athens started a new topic called Please Contact the Iola City Government about unfriendly bike laws

2010-08-16 14:10:40 MST

Cross posted from news section

Randy at Kansas Cyclist has made me aware that the city of Iola has some city statutes that will be of interest to those of us who are pedaling through town. The relevant sections of the municipal code are:

ARTICLE V. BICYCLES*
_________

*State law references: Authority to regulate bicycles, K.S.A. 8-2002(21); bicycles and play vehicles, K.S.A. 8-1586 et seq.
__________

Sec. 90-141. Surrender for violations.

(a) Any person violating the provisions of this article shall be punished by being required to surrender the person's bicycles, if the person owns more than one, to the chief of police and shall not operate any vehicle within the city for a period of one week.

(b) Any person using or operating a bicycle within the city in violation of any ordinance of the city relating to traffic may be punished therefor, in lieu of or in addition to, other penalties provided, by being required to surrender the bicycles, if the person owns more than one, to the chief of police, and shall not operate any vehicle within the city for one week.

(Code 1988, � 14-505)

Sec. 90-142. Registration; tag; fee; additional regulations.

(a) It shall be unlawful for any person to operate a bicycle within the city, without having registered the bicycle and having an unexpired license therefor. Such registration shall be with, and license shall be procured from, the city chief of police.

(b) The city shall furnish to every owner whose bicycle shall be registered, one number plate or tag for each bicycle, and the tag or plate shall be displayed on the bicycle to which it is assigned during the current registration year in such a manner as to be clearly visible from the rear of such bicycle.

(c) The annual license fee for such bicycle shall be an amount established in section 34-732 for each calendar year, or part thereof. Any bicycle which is registered by a new owner on or following December 24 of any calendar year, may display the number plate or tag for the ensuing calendar year and shall be relieved from such fee for the then current calendar year.

(d) The chief of police shall have the power to make additional regulations necessary to make effective the provisions of this article.

(Code 1988, �� 14-501--14-504)

Sec. 90-143. Riding on sidewalks.

It shall be unlawful for any person to ride a bicycle on the sidewalks within the corporate limits of the city.

(Code 1988, � 14-506)

As you can see, not very friendly to trail riders. Since the trail is paved in town it could be considered a sidewalk.

Now, I have never heard anyone complain about this. Nobody that I know of has had their bike taken. The licensing fee is $.50. But if you are in an accident heading down to Subway from the trailhead, there could be implications for you and your insurance. Note that registering your bike is not limited to residents.

I think that this is something that needs to be brought to the attention of city administration. The contact information is at

http://www.cityofiola.com/administration.html

Be polite. we don't want special rights. We would like to bike into town without danger of ALL of our bikes being seized. Just let the four people running the city know that you enjoy the trail and would like to feel that the laws would help facilitate that.

Thanks,

Timon

kretzmeier commented on Please Contact the Iola City Government about unfriendly bike laws

2010-08-20 14:12:13 MST

Sam has encouraged me, since I am from Iola, to comment on what seems to be rather unfriendly municipal statutes to bicycle owners and riders. It is my best guess that city officials are not aware of the language of the existing statutes. I come to this conclusion based upon the city commission's favorable efforts as to the trail inside of Iola and trailhead, cooperating in the installation of shelters, water supply, and racks at the trailhead and most recently in applying and receiving federal/state transportation grant money and committing in excess of $ 100,000 of local money to extend the trail south 1.2 miles to the city park. As a youth I remember when licensing local bikes came about in the 1950's or 1960's. Officer Kelly days, I believe. This was probably established to effectively deal with lost, stolen, and found bicycles. I have not personally witnessed the law as it is currently published, being actively enforced.

I have two bikes. I have acquired a license and applied the stick on tag to one of my bikes. The more expensive bike I have not. It is my further guess that the tagging system currently in place was developed using an old card system which was the most efficient system of its' day and time. Certainly it did not take into consideration that today's owner of a $ 3,000 or $ 5,000 carbon frame bicycle, would not likely stand for applying a license sticker to their frame. I am one who subscribes to the belief that if one desires change, they should provide suggestions as to what that change should be. The commissioners and City Administrator are known to me and as a resident cycling enthusiast it looks to me like I need to approach them. I will do so.

My recommendations will be to suggest that the old card and license sticker system be replaced. Every bike has a serial number. In today's world a bicycle database system could be created in 10 minutes using Microsoft Access or even Microsoft Excel. The database could locate quickly any serial number for a bike entered into the system. Consequently, the costs and hassle of a sticker tag system is not necessary. I will recommend they move to a database system, with a one-time registration fee to the bike owner to record the serial number, name, and owner information of the bike.

I will recommend the statute be changed so that licensing applies only to those residents residing within the city limits of Iola so as to hold harmless those person's riding through the city on the trail or public roads.

Finally, I will suggest language clarification that establishes that paths clearly marked as walking/bike trails do not come within the meaning of sidewalk for the purposes of Sec.90-143.

I am certainly open to a critical eye or someone else's suggestions as to recommended changes. If you have suggestions as to further statute language changes please try to get them to me and I will champion them to the best of my ability.

jlovitt commented on Please Contact the Iola City Government about unfriendly bike laws

2010-09-29 14:29:56 MST

I wrote a short friendly email to the City Administrator and the Mayor. The City Administrator gave me her word that my bike would not be confiscated. She was going to talk to the Chief of Police about the law and look into updating it for modern times.

gcardell commented on Please Contact the Iola City Government about unfriendly bike laws

2011-08-19 02:43:45 MST

I am an Iola resident and couldn't agree more wiht kretzmeier's suggestion. It sounds exactly like whats needed.

Timon of Athens started a new topic called Mystery man/woman, where are you?

2011-07-08 15:34:55 MST

Just posting this hoping that it is seen by cbartel, the rider with the 8 hour time for an out and back on the PST.

Let us know about your ride. What are your secrets? How can mere mortals achieve such a time.

Timon

cbartel commented on Mystery man/woman, where are you?

2011-07-21 13:44:01 MST

hey Timon,
Try to stop and eat about once per hour to keep your energy levels high. There is a good gas station just south of garnett. That is a perfect place to stop and restock on beef jerky, mt dew and other surgary stuff. Gerald was my wing man. There was a strong south wind that day so we rotated about once per mile to avoid fatigue. There are a lot of places to stop and get water. I tried to drink about one water bottle per hour. Staying hydrated will help you fight off the cramps.

We hope to better the time this fall. We are waiting for cooler temps...

happy riding!
-Charlie

JD_Shawnee commented on Mystery man/woman, where are you?

2011-08-10 10:54:31 MST

I don't see many riders 'drafting' on rail-trails. But I have seen them doing it on club-organized rides a while back.

As I recall, several of the 20-mph riders there could finish a paved century in 6-hr or so. Also, I remember an occasional peloton cruising along at 15-plus-mph between SAG stops.

Suppose these guys get a good workout on a rail-trail? Less traffic for sure, and maybe more fun. :)

Timon of Athens started a new topic called The Prairie Spirit Century - Coming in late May

2011-04-21 13:44:41 MST

There has been some interest in this discussion so I thought that I would start a thread to get it all in one place.

Several of us at discussing a ride from Ottawa to Iola to Ottawa. This would be 102 miles or a much coveted "century". I have done several 70s, many 60s but have never made the 100.

We are looking at late May starting early on a Saturday morning, but we should be open to anyone who has better ideas.

If anyone has questions or tips for people doing their first century (Besides "Don't".), feel free to put them here.

Timon of Athens commented on The Prairie Spirit Century - Coming in late May

2011-05-02 06:40:01 MST

I don't know about anyone else, but 100 miles is going to take me awhile. I've done countless 50s, dozens of 60s, and a few 70s, so this should be a challenge.

I propose that we start on a Saturday morning, ready to leave the Ottawa Depot at 8 in the morning. My average speed n the trail is about 11-12 mph. This means Garnett by 10 o'clock and Iola by a little after 12. This would mean planning on leaving Iola by 1 after a short rest/lunch. I would predict that the return trip would be slower so a least 5 hours.

That means finishing by 6 at the earliest. Does this sound about right to most people?

M P Oliver commented on The Prairie Spirit Century - Coming in late May

2011-05-09 13:41:02 MST

I am thinking about starting out at Iola and going to Ottawa. Uphill starting out and boy that downhill from Colony to Iola will be appreciated. On a century day YOU WIll notice.

kretzmeier commented on The Prairie Spirit Century - Coming in late May

2011-05-09 22:01:05 MST

The Century is more ambitious than I can muster in one day, but living in Iola I will certainly offer ground support for you between Iola and Garnett. Possibly help you with a quick turnaround lunch, and maybe pace with you for part of the south leg of the ride. I will watch for postings.

jlovitt commented on The Prairie Spirit Century - Coming in late May

2011-05-10 09:35:10 MST

I like the plan to start and end in Ottawa because that is closer to where I live.
I agree that it will take a very long time. This early in the season I am really out of shape. I had a day recently where I rode 11 miles in the morning and 11 in the evening and was really tired, so 100 is going to be rough.
The other thing we have to keep in mind is the wind. It's going to be against us at least half the time, and if it's a strong wind it could really make a difference.

Steven commented on The Prairie Spirit Century - Coming in late May

2011-05-11 12:48:26 MST

Hi there everyone! I planted the notion of a century in Sam's head. It's something I've always wanted to do. After speaking with him, it looks like we will be doing it on Friday, May 27. We should probably start around 7 a.m. I am looking forward to this challenge. Hopefully, many Prairie Spirit fans will join us.

Steven

Timon of Athens commented on The Prairie Spirit Century - Coming in late May

2011-05-11 13:32:51 MST

I hope to hear from Jim (jcover). I know he reads these postings and he seemed pretty enthusiastic about it during our earlier trip.

dougcyclingsolo commented on The Prairie Spirit Century - Coming in late May

2011-05-12 06:04:24 MST

I did this in 2008, September I think. That was my strongest year since I started cycling, I'm not sure I could do it now. The bridge was out north of Garnett. I detoured on Highway 59. 108 miles total. I remember it was daylight to dark for me. I'm slow. Sounds interesting, I might give it a try.

Timon of Athens commented on The Prairie Spirit Century - Coming in late May

2011-05-12 09:41:57 MST

Welcome to the forum, Doug.

This should be pretty casual. I think that anybody who is even thinking of going should most likely make it to the end.

Since dusk is after 9, I think that we have a pretty good buffer.

jlovitt commented on The Prairie Spirit Century - Coming in late May

2011-05-17 08:00:03 MST

Everyone will want to eat a good breakfast before starting. I ran out of energy when I rode from Ottawa to Iola last time. Luckily I had some snacks with me.

Any thoughts on where to eat lunch? Last time I at at the buffet place across the street from the end of the trail in Iola. It was pretty good and it was nice because I didn't have to place an order and wait.

J

Timon of Athens commented on The Prairie Spirit Century - Coming in late May

2011-05-17 16:15:08 MST

I concur. Remember, diets are good but not when you are on the back of a bike. Load up front and have little bite-size snacks you can gobble between watering up.

Timon of Athens commented on The Prairie Spirit Century - Coming in late May

2011-05-21 09:37:45 MST

Okay, time to see who will actually make this trip.

I have seen interest from:

Timon of Athens (me)
Steven
jlovitt
dougcyclingsolo
jcover

Let's get some confirmation so we know who to wait for.

Sam

jcover commented on The Prairie Spirit Century - Coming in late May

2011-05-21 10:50:32 MST

Count JCover in. See you all Friday morning at 7 am.

jcover commented on The Prairie Spirit Century - Coming in late May

2011-05-21 10:56:49 MST

I should add that you shouldn't wait up if I don't show.

Steven commented on The Prairie Spirit Century - Coming in late May

2011-05-22 09:17:23 MST

I am definitely in for this! See you all then.

dougcyclingsolo commented on The Prairie Spirit Century - Coming in late May

2011-05-23 12:52:00 MST

Sorry, I won't be doing it.

jlovitt commented on The Prairie Spirit Century - Coming in late May

2011-05-24 07:02:58 MST

Yes, I plan on being there.
Timon, are you planning to leave at 7am? Originally you said 8, so I want to make sure everyone is on the same page. I am fine with either.
Leaving at 7 is probably better because it provides more of a buffer. Having said that, I have a bit of a drive to get to the trail, and I want to eat a big breakfast first, so I may be running late. Don't wait for me, I will catch up if I have to.

John

Timon of Athens commented on The Prairie Spirit Century - Coming in late May

2011-05-24 07:36:23 MST

Looks like a pack of 4 at 7:00.

Timon (Sam)
Steven (Nancy)
jcover (Jim)
Jlovett (John)

I think everyone has a bit of a drive to get there, except Jim. So I am sure that a little buffer will be in order.

I want to reemphasize that everyone should feel free to set their own pace. I have taken long trips where I went slow for people that were struggling and it killed my endurance. I think that most on this trip will set a faster pace than I will, so I don't want that to hurt anyone else. I am good for about 12mph steady for a long haul.

Okay, so far the tips are:
1) You're crazy.
2) Eat a big breakfast.

Anyone want to add to that list?

Steven commented on The Prairie Spirit Century - Coming in late May

2011-05-24 09:04:39 MST

Here's the only tip I will add:
3) Enjoy the scenery. The landscape really is beautiful.

I typically ride at 12 mph on crushed limestone, so I will likely be alongside Sam. See you all at 7 a.m. on Friday.

Timon of Athens commented on The Prairie Spirit Century - Coming in late May

2011-05-24 11:55:54 MST

4) Pack rain gear.

Weather is looking like 30% chance of scattered thundershowers. I don't mind wet, and the wind doesn't look too bad. But I will be keeping and eye open.

Steven commented on The Prairie Spirit Century - Coming in late May

2011-05-25 15:48:27 MST

A little bit of rain does not bother me either. Right now, it's a 50% chance of precipitation, "Scattered T-storms." Of course, these things can change. I'm optimistic.

Timon of Athens commented on The Prairie Spirit Century - Coming in late May

2011-05-25 17:31:42 MST

Looks like it starts at 10% at 7 and slowly rises to 50% by 2 in the afternoon.

Wind looks to be from the ESE at about 10 mph. So nominally behind us on the way back.

Steven commented on The Prairie Spirit Century - Coming in late May

2011-05-26 05:26:14 MST

The situation appears to be improving. Now, it actually looks like we might be dry all the way to Iola. A little rain on the way back will probably be a good motivator for me to keep pushing away. See you all at 7 tomorrow morning!

Timon of Athens commented on The Prairie Spirit Century - Coming in late May

2011-05-26 09:13:56 MST

For those interested:

7am Ottawa 54 degrees Partly Cloudy Wind from the SE 10mph

9am Garnett 59 degrees Cloudy Wind from the SE 10mph

11am Iola 67 degrees Mostly Cloudy Wind from the SE 12mph

12am Iola 69 degrees 30% Chance Rain Wind from the SE 12mph

2pm Garnett 67 degrees 30% Chance Rain Wind from the SE 12mph

4pm Ottawa 69 degrees 30% Isolated Thunderstorm Wind from the SE 12mph

We may get lucky. It's good that the wind will be at out back when we are tired. Also, the are short climbs on the way back, Iola to Colony and halfway between Garnett and Richmond.

Stars may be aligned.

M P Oliver commented on The Prairie Spirit Century - Coming in late May

2011-05-28 05:40:43 MST

How was the ride? Looking forward to your report!

Timon of Athens commented on The Prairie Spirit Century - Coming in late May

2011-05-28 06:12:06 MST

We were defeated by wind and rain. Only made it to Iola before the rain made the trail very difficult riding. Full report to come in several days unless Steven gets to it before I do.

Steven commented on The Prairie Spirit Century - Coming in late May

2011-05-30 09:43:20 MST

I arrived at the Ottawa Depot at 7 a.m. to find Timon of Athens (Sam) and JCover (Jim) waiting for me. We hit the trail a few minutes later. About a mile into our trip, Jim discovered Sam was traveling sans helmet. Sam turned around to retrieve the helmet, which had been left on the roof of his car. (I believe this was actually planned, so Sam could claim that he rode two miles more than me.)

After regrouping, the three of us hit the trail again. We left Ottawa around 7:30. The wind gradually picked up, and became an impediment. After struggling, I made it to the Richmond trailhead around 8:40. Around 8:45, Sam and Jim joined me. After a brief break, we headed for Garnett.

The ride from Richmond to Garnett was pleasant overall. The slight decline allowed me to make up for slow windy miles. The slight incline was enough to keep me alert, but not enough to get me winded. As I entered Garnett, it began to rain slightly. It was just a sprinkle at this point, and no cause for concern.

I arrived in Garnett a few minutes before Sam. The rain eventually died down. When Jim arrived, he explained that the wind was too much. He would be turning around at this point. Perhaps Sam and I should have recognized his prescience. Before we parted ways, Jim generously offered to pick us up later. We thanked him for the offer, but did not believe it would be necessary. The rain had stopped. We saw no reason why the trip would not be a success.

We hit the trail again, and cruised casually to Welda. After a brief stop, we headed toward Colony. During this stretch the skies turned dark. It began to sprinkle again. The sprinkles turned to rain. We arrived in Colony, and quickly found shelter. This was lucky, because thunderstorms and heavy rains soon arrived. After waiting out a few rounds of storms, we set out again. It was still raining, but the deluge was over.

The trail surface had already seemed loose. However, the heavy rains had made things much worse. We were pedaling hard, but barely moving. The ride from Colony to Carlyle was utterly miserable. At one point we heard a tornado siren. I'm not sure whether this was a legitimate warning, but it was disheartening. During the rest of the ride I kept an eye out for ditches, in case a tornado did arrive.

I was incredibly glad to hit the blacktop in Iola. We cruised to the trailhead, where we were greeted by Jay Kretzmeier. He generously offered us some dry towels, and followed us to lunch. After some discussion, we decided the wind and rain had won. I settled for 52 miles and Sam settled for 54. Jay generously offered to drive us back to the Ottawa Depot.

There will be another day when the weather is closer to optimal. I am confident that, eventually, I will pull of the Prairie Spirit Century.

jlovitt commented on The Prairie Spirit Century - Coming in late May

2011-06-01 06:16:53 MST

My trip report:
You guys are not going to believe this.

As I expected I was running late on Saturday. I got out of my house at a somewhat reasonable time, but hadn't had anything for breakfast yet, so I had to detour quite a ways up to Gardner to get some food at McDonalds. (I was pretty worried about not having a lot of calories in me based on my end-to-end trip last year.)

I finally arrived at the Ottawa depot at 7:25. I backed my truck into a spot facing the depot, grabbed my bike out of the back, stuffed food and raingear in my pockets and on the bike, and was on the trail by 7:30. I thought I could push it pretty hard and catch up to the group at some point. But one thing confused me. There were no vehicles in the depot parking lot besides my truck. I was sure this was where everyone was meeting, but unless everyone rode their bikes to Ottawa, there should have been two or three cars there. So I pulled out my Blackberry and checked this thread and there was no cancellation notice.
I continued riding at a pretty good clip and didn't stop until I reached Richmond. At that point I had to use the facilities and I think I had given up on catching up to anyone else. I decided that everyone must have not shown up, or else had a solid 30 minute lead on me that I could never make up.

I settled in for the long ride. At first the mist was drying off of me as fast as it was hitting me, but when I got to Garnett things picked up a bit and I started to actually get a little bit wet. I pulled out my rain gear, put it on, and rode on through town.

After a few miles it seemed to lighten up again and I took off the rain gear. I spent my time listening to podcasts on my Blackberry.

The trail continued to get softer the farther south I went. Then when passing under 169 at the new tunnel I foolishly rode my bike through a big puddle and caked my tires with thick sticky clay. The clay immediately picked up the gravel and started slinging it everywhere, so I had to stop and find a stick to scrape my tires off.

For the last 15 miles into Iola I stopped eating any snacks that I had brought and only thought about the buffet at the end of the trail. By the time I hit the edge of town the food had reached epic proportions in my mind and it was all I could think about.

I hit the end of the trail, took a picture in which I pretended to be happy about the whole experience, and then limped over to The Greenery and started eating. Grilled chicken, ham cooked with canned peaches, a huge pile of spaghetti, salad, roll, mashed potatoes, two helpings of cobbler, and vanilla pudding.

While I was sitting in the restaurant booth, I checked the website again and saw the post about pulling out at Iola. I wasn't too surprised that I had been beaten to Iola as I had been pretty slow that day, but I was wondering how everyone had made it back to their vehicles if they hadn't ridden their bikes back.

With my stomach stuffed I hit the trail again and decided to ride as far as I could. My legs hurt pretty bad and my bike saddle was rubbing me wrong, but I wanted to get as far North as I could before possibly calling my wife to come and get me.

The wind seemed much worse heading North, but I could tell that parts of the trail were downhill enough to help. I tried not to think about how long I had left to ride and just focus on putting down 10 miles at a time. At first I was able to maintain a decent 10mph speed, but then later in the day it was all I could do to bounce between 9 and 7 mph. Sometimes the saddle hurt so bad that I stood up and pushed on the pedals.

The miles ticked on and I was determined to finish the round-trip. If I didn't do it now, I wasn't going to do it. The memory of this pain was going to keep me off my bike and off this trail for a while, so I might as well finish it. The whole trail was soft now and it was obvious the region had receieved a great deal of rain in the past few days. One bridge crossing in particular I remember on the way down seeing it had flooded out one branch of the road, and on the way back I could see that the water had risen up over the other branch as well. I did not see anybody using the trail on my way back.

I called my wife to tell her I only had 15 miles to go. I was pretty excited about that until she pointed out that 15 miles is a long way. It was a long way. Shortly after that I had to stop completely for a skunk that was browsing in the vegetation right next to the trail. I had to yell a couple of times and even throw a handful of gravel near it before it finally got scared and ran off into the brush.

By the time I hit Ottawa I was so tired I didn't even get as excited as I should have about the pavement. I just wanted to be done so badly. I had thought about eating at the Dairy Queen in town to reward myself with ice cream, but at this point it was so late that I just wanted to be done and get home as fast as I could. The lunch I ate was so massive that I really wasn't all that hungry yet. I pulled to a stop and loaded my bike into my truck back at the depot. The sky was getting dar. The time was 8:10pm.

Total time for the whole expidition was 12 hours, 41 minutes, and 4 seconds. Total distance was 102.7 miles.

I don't know if I will ever ride this trail again.

Now that I read about you guys being on the trail, I am not sure how I missed you. Especially with the lost helmet delay and with one person heading back early. I'm also dying to know where you all were parked.

Here is the link to the GPS log:
http://connect.garmin.com/activity/89413952

Timon of Athens commented on The Prairie Spirit Century - Coming in late May

2011-06-01 07:18:04 MST

I think your problem was that the date was on Friday, not Saturday. Sorry we missed you and the slightly better weather.

Also, Welcome back to being "King of the Trail."

jlovitt commented on The Prairie Spirit Century - Coming in late May

2011-06-01 07:23:22 MST

Ohhhh...
I guess I got Saturday stuck in my head in didn't notice the several posts reiterating that it was going to be Friday instead.

Well, that totally explains it then. I feel quite silly.

M P Oliver commented on The Prairie Spirit Century - Coming in late May

2011-06-01 07:53:24 MST

That is so awesome jovitt! You did good! Though a day late, lol. Did you ever wonder, "Where they be?" All in all, I commend you for your presevereance and mental toughness! Good job!

kretzmeier commented on The Prairie Spirit Century - Coming in late May

2011-06-02 15:17:39 MST

Confirmation of a meritorious achievement to jlovitt.
I was to exchange vehicles with my daughter in Lawrence on Saturday and so started up there from Iola sometime before 11:00 a.m. As I drove I kept my eye on the trail and noticed what appeared to be a serious biker in yellow jersey with forearm rests pedalling south where what I believe was north of Colony.
I drove with windshield wipers going and when I arrived at Ottawa I noticed the moisture was so thick I could not see the tops of the tall antennas there. I wondered if the fellow was still riding? I completed my business and returned in the afternoon with wipers on. I rather lost track of time but kept my eye on the trail. To my amazement I see this rider in the yellow jersey heading north and I thought, "This guy is one serious rider".
Undoubtedly, this was jlovitt. My hat goes off to him, and hope that sometime when the trama of this trip has passed; he will return to Iola at a slow pace, when the sun is shining, there is more time to eat and talk, and can revel in the accomplishment of this past weekend.

jlovitt commented on The Prairie Spirit Century - Coming in late May

2011-06-06 11:02:10 MST

Thanks for the encouragement, everyone.
The whole situation really does make me laugh.
And yes, I did wear a long sleeve yellow shirt on that Saturday, and my bike has Aero Bars so I ride resting on my forearms. Really cool that you saw me twice. There are not a lot of sections of the trail that you can actually see from the main road like that, so the timing must have worked out right.
I will try to figure out how to post a picture of myself at the end of the trail.

JD_Shawnee commented on The Prairie Spirit Century - Coming in late May

2011-06-07 06:30:42 MST

Terrific blog and event!

Timon of Athens commented on The Prairie Spirit Century - Coming in late May

2011-07-20 11:42:24 MST

Just a late addendum here.

I ran into jcover on the trail last Thursday. He's too shy to tell you all what an amazing cyclist he is so I will.

After sending us on at Garnett, he later changed his mind. He took off after us and got caught by the rain at Welda while we were at Colony. After the rain let up he continued on and made it to Iola about 2:00. After eating at the same Subway that we had he headed back. He said the trail was much better after his lunch and had dried out. He made it back to Princeton before calling it because of dehydration. A mere 90 miles.

My hat is off to you Jim. The biking on the wet trail was worth those last ten miles you missed. We will attempt again in the fall.

Timon

JD_Shawnee started a new topic called Tapped-Out Hours

2011-07-02 19:45:13 MST

Hours sign on the door (spring 2011) says it opens a 4-pm.

Timon of Athens commented on Tapped-Out Hours

2011-07-03 05:18:29 MST

Thanks for the tip! I've added the information to the database.

Timon.

Timon of Athens commented on Tapped-Out Hours

2011-07-15 05:09:05 MST

Also looks like the name has changed. Look for this location under 1-Moore Bar & Grill.

Timon

Timon of Athens started a new topic called Looking for Landmarks

2011-06-24 10:35:33 MST

I am going to construct a database of landmarks seen while riding the trail, since going from landmark to landmark tends to make the ride seem shorter. Well, to me at least.

What landmarks do you look for and where are they?

Example: 2 Bridges and resting bench (Also Blackberry tree, yum.) MM63.4

Once I have enough of these I will set up a printable page.

Sam

kretzmeier commented on Looking for Landmarks

2011-06-24 23:06:26 MST

I always enjoy seeing the cooling pond/lake on the west a couple of miles north of Welda. Of course antennas and water towers are always welcome sights. The round house south of Princeton and the crossover road nearby are memorable. The shale and rock formations on what I call the "High Country" several miles north of Welda are neat. (Sorry I don't recall the milespost. Milepost 84 is easy to remember and it tells the rider he/she is just south of the Garnett/Hwy 59 overpass. The close proximity of the lake to the trail south of Garnett offers the rider an aroma of waters of fishing. The ethanol plant has the aroma of a commercial bakery at times. That single tree to the west on the hill in the mile south of Colony stands out as a reminder "Hi Point", the name captured by July Colony Rodeos of days long ago. The race track at Garnett brings a reminder of the small riot years ago that was partially responsible for the end of the annual auto race there. The John Brown Road at Princeton always causes me to think history. I better stop and hold off until I can think of something good.

Timon of Athens commented on Looking for Landmarks

2011-06-25 17:31:16 MST

I got one!

Where the pavements starts (heading south) to go under the highway between Colony and Carlyle. MM 102

kretzmeier commented on Looking for Landmarks

2011-06-25 21:27:42 MST

I'll keep adding and you can toss out the chaff. There is one Russian Olive tree alongside the trail and in the spring around Memorial Day it smells so sweet. It is on the west side of the trail just North of Miller Road between mile 108 and 107. East of the trail south of Welda the white gas monitors is a reminder of the commercial underground natural gas storage field located there. I guess you have to store it somewhere! Walnut trees are in a number of places on the trail. One such place is just north of the Deer Creek/South Dakota Road bridge close to marker 105.

kretzmeier commented on Looking for Landmarks

2011-07-03 18:39:37 MST

This weekend's ride for me adds a couple of landmark items and clarifies a couple. The lake/pond north of Welda and to the west is near milepost 90. The round house and crossover road is exactly at milepost 70. The hilltop with native shale rock at 1300 Rd is at milepost 88.
Now for a landmark with sound, there has been an oilwell pumpjack that has been squeeking for three years. It is east of the trail at a stop sign near mile post 97.

Finally my favorite, if there is a strong wind, coupled with the uphill grade traveling south from Welda to Colony can be a real challenge. There is no cover to break the wind at milepost 94 and for several miles each way the trail parallels HWY 169. I now call this area the 94th parallel.

JD_Shawnee started a new topic called Purdy good! (The Greenery)

2011-06-16 08:13:46 MST

Ate here 6/15 just before the lunch buffet went in. The breakfast specials included full b&g ($2.99). The old-fashion omelet next to me looked great, too.

But I chose a grease injection of tenderloin w/onion rings instead. The romaine lettuce added a lot to this sandwich along with its tomato and other condiments.

Peeked at the buffet before leaving. It looked adequate/ample: lots of chicken this time, seasoned mashed potatoes, Mulligan macaroni, spaghetti, cooked veggies, dinner rolls, other stuff, and a big salad bar. The blackberry cobbler looked inviting for sure.

Timon of Athens started a new topic called Denise's Country Cafe

2010-03-19 14:30:07 MST

Had the lunch buffet here last thursday. Cheap, well-prepared and very filling. The desert was nothing special but the ice cream machine made up for it.

JD_Shawnee commented on Denise's Country Cafe

2011-06-09 14:08:19 MST

(5/3/2011) While doing the north half, I had a late B&G breakfast here before the lunch buffet started. The waitress told me the 3-biscuits w/farmstyle gravy was a lot of food (less than $4), and I shouldn't order it unless really hungry. I had the two biscuit order instead ($2.85 I think), which was sizeable itself and good. Total was $3.58 with coffee and tax. The place was busy! :)

jlovitt started a new topic called What bike do you ride on the trail?

2011-06-08 07:57:23 MST

The bike that I currently use on the Prairie Spirit trail is the same bike I use for everything. I built it myself which was an adventure. It started with a road Touring frame from Nashbar. I got this frame because it is supposed to be comfortable above everything else, but also happens to be fairly light because it is double butted aluminum.
It is nice because it has room for really wide tires. I think I'm currently running slick 32mm tires on it, but I wouldn't mind going wider.
This makes the bike nice for gravel roads and also fast on pavement.
My handlebars are built in aerobars. They are comfortable to rest my elbows on during long rides, and they also get me lower and out of the Kansas winds.

Picture of my bike should be posted soon.

Anybody else want to share more information about their bikes?

Timon of Athens commented on What bike do you ride on the trail?

2011-06-08 20:17:38 MST

Whudda ya know? Your picture is here.

http://bikeprairiespirit.com/pictures/picture_display.php?photo_id=27

Timon of Athens started a new topic called Need Photo Rating - Please Help

2011-05-17 16:19:09 MST

I am working on the photo system in the background here and while some more photos would be great, what I really need right now are some more ratings.

If you have a minute, go to the photo section. If you are logged in you can rate the pictures from 1 to 5. Every little bit will help me fine tune the system.

Thanks in advance,

Sam

jlovitt commented on Need Photo Rating - Please Help

2011-06-06 11:19:07 MST

I tried to upload some photos. They don't show up yet, so I don't know if they are waiting on approval or if I did something wrong.

Also, Timon, can you tell me more about your bike? It looks kind of similar to mine, so I'm curious about it.

Timon of Athens commented on Need Photo Rating - Please Help

2011-06-06 12:22:36 MST

Nothing is on record as having been submitted, and so, since the submission page has been giving me trouble I will see about re-writing it this week. I will ask if your pictures were under the size limit.

If you would like to have the pictures up ASAP, send them directly to me at admin(at)bikeprairiespirit(dot)com. I will get them posted as soon as I receive them.

Timon of Athens commented on Need Photo Rating - Please Help

2011-06-07 08:03:41 MST

I have found the basic problem. I was requiring that a caption be written without telling the user.

I will be rewriting the page and have it give the user a bit more feedback. I should work otherwise until I get that done.

jlovitt commented on Need Photo Rating - Please Help

2011-06-08 06:29:33 MST

I think my photos may have been over the size limit. I think I just tried to upload them and figured I would see an error message if they were too big.

I'll start another thread to talk about bikes.

JD_Shawnee started a new topic called Alternate pathway

2011-06-06 11:46:40 MST

For bicylists looking for a nearby alternate trail for a change of pace without having to go far to do so, the Ottawa-Osawatomie Flint Hills eastern section might fit the bill. Its pathway crosses the Prairie Spirit at 1st Street. Rode it and back Friday 6/3 by entering/leaving it at Ottawa�s east 7th Street gate. From there up to 1st Street it is overgrown with ballast rock, a good place for blowouts. Yet, the bulk of the remaining part of this 20-mile well-packed trail is well-lined with trees, shrubs, and vegetation (except for a large field on each side of the Rantoul village); thus, it is fairly well protected from strong south winds.

It does border the Maria des Cygnes at times. But, overall, it simply does not have the facilities and views of the Prairie Spirit (i.e., trailheads, restrooms, running water, benches, lakes/ponds, large wildlife, waterfowl, trailside cafes etc). Rantoul does have outside soda-pop machines, but its caf�/gift-shop doesn�t post its hours outside(?) As a precaution, users need to carry their own water and energy food.

Ate my sandwich/lunch sitting on a concrete bridge curb. This ride also ended at the western end of Osawatomie where large semi-trailers are parked atop the corridor before getting into town. However, the paved Parker Road next to the trail does go there. Saw lots of wildflowers, birds, horse tracks, mulberries, and shade along this pathway. But that was about all of it except for a few cottontails, red squirrels, and one bewildered deer. :)

Timon of Athens commented on Alternate pathway

2011-06-06 20:02:10 MST

Welcome to the forums, JD.

While the FHNT isn't as developed as the PST. I does have certain charms, as you discovered. The only real services I have found is a building in Rantoul. It looks sort of like a carwash from the trail, but if you leave the trail an bike up to it, it is a garage full of vending machines. I was happy to find that the munchies machine was cold. The un melted peanut butter cup was great on a very hot day.

Since the funds have been approved to finish the trail through Ottawa and will connect up with the PST, I am toying with the idea of extending this site to include Rantoul and Osawatomie. We will see how things work out.

JD_Shawnee commented on Alternate pathway

2011-06-07 06:29:10 MST

Thanks for your welcome Sam. Yeah, this FHNT section is not a bad ride by any means. And you're right about adding Osawatomie to this site. It probably has quite a few places of interest (food & water too) since it's a larger town.

Timon of Athens started a new topic called My bike - Feel free to write your own entry.

2011-06-06 12:39:05 MST

Since jlovett asked.

My bike is a 2006 Schwinn Voyager that my wife bought for me from the Recyclery in Lawrence. About $200 and 7 whole speeds. I go first class.

My only real modifications are the addition of a cycle computer, two bottle cages, a trunk rack, clip peddles, a better saddle & a European touring bar. The picture "Trekkin' North of Welda" is a picture before the eurobars.

Excepting 3 flat tires, so far "The Green Machine" has been trouble free for about 3500 miles of road, gravel road and rail-trail. There have been two 4-day Katy trips and many trips on the PST and the Flint Hills Nature Trail between Ottawa and Osawatomie. Most of the road milage has been between Lawrence, Lecompton, Perry, Oskaloosa, McClouth and Tonganoxie.

I am very happy with this bike as it gets me where I want to go and never complains.

Timon of Athens started a new topic called Prairie Preserve is not the side trip for everyone.

2011-04-28 15:47:12 MST

But it certainly is for me.

This isn't a tourist trap or even a park. It's just a large expanse of natural prairie land. And that's why I am attracted to it.

The day I stopped here, there was peace. I was able to sit and eat a small lunch beside some flowing water and just listen to the wind in the trees. The county road behind me never had a single car the entire time that I was there. While I knew that Highway 169 was just off to the west, I could neither see or hear it.

For those that haven't experienced it, the prairie is very different from the field around it. Look for the wild strawberries. While there was no fruit the day I was there, there were plenty of blossoms. The fruit will be tiny, but quite tasty.

M P Oliver commented on Prairie Preserve is not the side trip for everyone.

2011-05-28 05:42:10 MST

Don't know where you are referring? I would like to see this.

Timon of Athens commented on Prairie Preserve is not the side trip for everyone.

2011-05-28 06:09:46 MST

I basically went down 1000 Road until I found a place to stop. The place I stopped is the picture on the main page for the ACPP. There was a farmhouse across the road behind me.

I just leaned my bike against the fence, jumped it, and sat next to the stream for awhile. It is very much make your own picnic spot.

Timon of Athens started a new topic called George's Bike Shop - Closed due to illness

2010-10-16 08:00:50 MST

I stopped by here on Friday, October 15th at about 4 in the afternoon and George's was closed.

Several people saw me there and let me know that George was in the hospital, something that coverjim had informed me of earlier in the day. Some expected the business to reopen soon. Many people have told me about what a nice person George is and how nice it was to have his business in the community.

Here's wishing George a speedy recovery and many happy days continuing to run his business.

Timon of Athens commented on George's Bike Shop - Closed due to illness

2011-05-21 16:42:01 MST

Looks like George is closing up shop due to declining health. Thanks, George, for years of service.

Timon of Athens started a new topic called Ride Report 05/17/11 - Garnett - Iola - Garnett

2011-05-17 16:13:07 MST

Thought a 50+ miler would be good to get in shape for a century later this month. I had a spare day before I started giving finals, everything else was graded soooo.... to the BatBike, Robin!

Got to Garnett about 9:00am. Weather was beautiful. About 63 degrees and just a hint of a cloud here and there. Saw a couple unloading, they didn't seem inclined to talk so I kept to myself. Unloaded, took a couple of pictures, and I was off.

The trail is in great shape as has been reported elsewhere. There was a slight red stain around dying plant life in the trail so I am assuming that the rangers have come through with herbicide. The other plant life was looking verdant. Trees were full of leaves and there were many flowers in bloom along the trail. I think I saw several wild roses off to the side. The only animal life besides birds before Welda was several rabbits. One needed his thrill for the day so he shot out in front of my tire and raced about 2 feet in front of me down the trail for about 20 yards. There were many deer tracks on the trail and a deer on the trail after Welda.

After Welda was my first opportunity to legally shoot the tunnel. It's nicely made and seems set to avoid the puddling that has been a problem with the other two tunnels.

Stopped at the Colony trailhead since it is one of my favorite places on the trail to sit and stare at the horizon. I then went on my long leg of the trip, Iola and back to Colony without stopping. Halfway back, I seemed to hit a wall. I knew I was going uphill and the wind was against me, but I was putting a lot of effort into going 8 miles an hour. Then I looked down at my back tire. It had gone horribly out of true. I limped into the Colony trailhead and considered my options. Giving the back wheel a spin, it would always stop immediately. I had a spoke tool with me and knew that given enough time I could get it fixed. But I was on a tight schedule for getting back. I decided to loosen the back brake and take my chances.

Pedaling became much easier. The last 15 miles were a breeze. Downhill, something of a windbreak, and cycling without a brake on. Wow.

The only thing I have noticed was that several mile markers seemed to be missing. I may have missed seeing them. Let me know if you know of any that are missing. Seems like a good spot for a fundraiser.

Timon of Athens commented on Ride Report 05/17/11 - Garnett - Iola - Garnett

2011-05-18 12:44:37 MST

Small addendum.

On closer inspection, I managed to pop two spokes. Tightening was out of the picture. Time for a new rim.

jlovitt commented on Ride Report 05/17/11 - Garnett - Iola - Garnett

2011-05-21 06:57:29 MST

Are you going to be able to get it fixed before the big ride next weekend?

I am going to try to get in some miles near my house today so I am in a little better shape.

Timon of Athens commented on Ride Report 05/17/11 - Garnett - Iola - Garnett

2011-05-21 07:18:14 MST

Already fixed. It was time for a new rim. I have fixed spoked before but that just moves to tension to a different spoke. I am sure that if I had kept the old rim I would have popped three during the ride.

As for warms-ups, I should get in a 50 and a 30 Monday and Wednesday.

Look forward to seeing you there.

M P Oliver started a new topic called Trailhead

2011-05-09 13:37:45 MST

We put in at Iola this last Saturday to ride to Garnett and back. I was really surprised that the park where the trail head is located HAS NO BATHROOM. Wow. That short ride to Carlyle can be a long one, but there is some secluded areas along there, if you know what I mean. I am hoping that there may someday be plans to have one there at Iola. So, if you are expecting to use facilites, need to plan ahead and make other arrangements. The ride was the best ever; dry and no wind to speak of. We stopped and ate at the Coffee Loft in Garnett- nice atmosphere and they were very welcoming and hospitable. Please note that the kitchen is closed from 2:30 PM to 5 PM on Saturdays and I think most days, but I am not sure? We saw where maintenace had been done to keep the trail open and safe. For the first time in the three years we have rode the trail, a park ranger asked to see our permits while stopped at Colony and he appeared pleasantly surprised that they were the yearly ones. We were pleased to see the presence of the ranger, as well. Only one unplesant experience this trip- someone walking their dog south or Garnett where the leash was long and the walker had earbuds and the dog decided to go after my tires or me(?) at the last minute. Close call; no contact but still un-nerving. 55.58 miles. Still working on getting a century day this year. Thanks to all who make this possible to enjoy.

Timon of Athens commented on Trailhead

2011-05-09 14:07:40 MST

The lack of facilities at the end of a ride is worse.

I think the plan is to use Riverside Park at the other end of town as the main trailhead once they get the first extension done. There is a pool there and there have been some rumblings that they might make showers available to cyclists for a nominal fee. Man that would be great in August weather you are parked in Iola or not.

Thanks for the tip about the Coffee Loft kitchen. I must have just hit it at the right times. I will get the details and include them on the page.

Glad you had a good trip, Dog or no.

Timon of Athens started a new topic called Ride Report 03/25/2011 Ottawa-Garnett-Ottawa

2011-03-27 15:25:41 MST

mtanders and I met Steve and coverjim at the Ottawa depot at 9:30 in the morning. It had rained the night before but the clouds did not look too threatening. It was, however, to be a day without sunshine. Average temperature was about 47 degrees.

Setting out we quickly arrived at the trailhead and stopped so that Steve and mtanders could pay their fees since they had not picked up a year pass like coverjim and I. We did talk about how the outlets for Fish and Game licenses didn't seem to know that they actually sold these passes. Both of us had to explain carefully that the pass did actually exist to the people who were meant to sell them to us.

After the preliminaries, we took off. Hitting the limestone at the edge of town. We were quickly reassured that the trail was going to be okay to ride. The rain had been absorbed and the surface was firm.

As expected, Steve and coverjim leapt out to big lead. mtanders had done the least amount of riding of the four of us and I spent a lot of time riding with him. The Boy Scout in me lives by the rule "No rider left behind." It's a good way to avoid a lot of trouble that can arise from group travel. Besides, as advertised, we were not in a race. I had a lot of time to speed ahead and take pictures. Naturally, Mike and I arrived at Princeton well after the other two.

Since the restrooms hadn't opened for the season, I let the others rest and biked ahead so that I could get some good pictures of them coming down the trail. About a mile down the trail, I stopped, ate a granola bar and got my camera out. Soon the were coming down the trail and I was getting low for some action shots. They zipped by and I had to gather myself together to make sure that I could catch up with them.

Between Princeton and Richmond was were I really started to see that a good amount of trail maintenance was being done. The entire was I was only seeing one branch fallen on the trail. Also, it was obvious that someone was trimming back the evergreen branches that were starting to intrude upon the trail. Finally, the major washouts that had been on this part of the trail at the end of last season had been filled in and nicely packed. Some of them were firmer than the older parts of the trail itself.

We arrived at Richmond and quickly took off for Garnett. I think this was the only time I have been through the tunnel under the highway and it has been dry. Nice change from the usual splash. The downhill after Richmond is always a nice respite after climbing from Ottawa, but you always know that it comes at the price of the final climb into Garnett. After a quick break at the Pottawatomie bridge, Mike and I began the climb. I noticed that in a week or two the scenery it going to be pretty spectacular on this part of the trail. Many plants looked ready to flower or bud.

We met to others at the picnic table at the edge of town and headed off to the Coffee Shop for lunch. Tasty and a nice break before the return.

After a nice sandwich and German potato salad, we headed out. I let the others go while I got a couple of new shots the courthouse. This meant that I had to really put it in gear to try to catch up with people. Unfortunately, I caught up too soon. Right before the Pottawatomie Bridge, mtanders looked like he was having trouble. I think that it was because he was the only one of us who did not have his legs covered and the muscles got cold. Luckily there was a bench nearby and after some talk, I convinced him that although he could most likely make it the whole way he would pay for it the next day. Since the had driven us and had the bike rack, I took his keys and we agreed to meet in Richmond.

Luckily, I caught up with speedster Steve at the Richmond trailhead. I gave him the keys to go ahead and come back with the car. The Boy Scout in me took over again and I went back to make sure that our ailing companion could make it to Richmond. I said goodbye to coverjim at this point and told him how mtanders was in awe of his skills.

Armed with a razz-ma-tazz bar from the Coffee Loft and full water bottle, I headed back to mtanders. He had been making good progress after a rest and we met up at Scipio Road. He was feeling better after putting his legs up. He was able to make forward progress, but not really get up over 7mph. We made it back to Richmond and waited for our pick-up.

Overall, it was a really nice ride despite our difficulties. While it was chilly out, the exercise kept me warm. It was really nice to see the trail ready to burst out into spring. This ride was a little tougher for me than it had been in the past as it was my first time on the bike this season.

Looking forward to our Ottawa-Iola-Ottawa ride in late May. I think I will finally get my century.

jlovitt commented on Ride Report 03/25/2011 Ottawa-Garnett-Ottawa

2011-04-20 11:19:40 MST

I think I might be interested in an Ottawa-Iola-Ottawa ride. Is that being planned on a separate thread?
Keep me in the loop if you don't mind.

Timon of Athens commented on Ride Report 03/25/2011 Ottawa-Garnett-Ottawa

2011-04-20 12:54:21 MST

Sure thing.

The current planning isn't any further along than "sometime in late May." When things get a little more solid. I'll post the details.

You would be going much faster than the rest of us.

Speed Demon.

Yes, I am jealous.

jlovitt commented on Ride Report 03/25/2011 Ottawa-Garnett-Ottawa

2011-04-21 10:51:50 MST

I'm not all that fast. And I do enjoy riding with other people.
However, I do have to confess that having lost my title (very briefly held indeed) of fastest end-to-end, I am interested in setting a new record of fastest round-trip.

So I might let you guys leave earlier, and then try to catch up, or else head off faster near the end.

Timon of Athens commented on Ride Report 03/25/2011 Ottawa-Garnett-Ottawa

2011-04-21 13:36:02 MST

Setting a record shouldn't be hard, given that the current one is just a placeholder.

Sounds good to me. Most of us were talking about a leisurely 10 hour pace, so you could most likely start 3 hours later. We could leave messages at the trailheads.

Guess that I should start organizing and putting in more saddle time.

Timon of Athens started a new topic called Looking for routes from PST to Clinton, MO

2011-04-18 06:44:04 MST

I was scanning some of the bike forums and came across this posting from a gentleman looking for a good route from the PST to Clinton, Mo to enable himself to hook up with the Katy Trailhead there.

Has anyone travelled these routes? I know that RandyR has travelled these roads extensively but I don't know if he has travelled east/west. The original posting was looking for information on traffic, amount of road shoulder and terrain.

You can read the original posting here:
http://www.bikeforums.net/showthread.php/717679-Seeking-information-on-route-from-the-Katy-Trail-to-Prairie-Spirit-Trail.

If you have good information, please post it in both places. I may want to make this trip in the future.

M P Oliver started a new topic called Garnett-Princeton-Garentt-Welda-Garnett

2011-04-10 08:02:32 MST

April 8th - Cloudy and foggy to start - tried to go with the wind and avoid rain. Soggy towards the north, drier condidtions farther south. Tornado watch cut the ride short. Did not run into anyone else the whole day until geting back to Garnett - a couple going out to ride maybe to Scipio Road if the westher held out. Saw a snake that I could not identify. Good day, trail in good shape - no major washouts or problems. Other than visibility north of Welda where pastures was buring on both sides of the trail. 40+ miles.

Timon of Athens commented on Garnett-Princeton-Garentt-Welda-Garnett

2011-04-14 07:11:30 MST

Sounds like a good day to me.

How is the flora at this point? I imagine that there are a lot of colors on the trail right now.

I am hoping to get a couple of good rides in in the next week or so, if it will stop raining on my days off.

M P Oliver commented on Garnett-Princeton-Garentt-Welda-Garnett

2011-04-14 09:32:17 MST

Everything was just starting to come out color wise, more so the farther south. White plum blossoms and of course the red bud trees in bloom. Starting to green up on the pastures as well with the occasional purple/blue across the fields that had not been tilled as of yet. It ought to be really getting with it this weekend, but like you - I would like for it to rain on Mondays or Tuesdays and then dry out for the weekends. I will place an order for that with Don Harmon on channel 4. We'll see what he can do? (Not)

M P Oliver started a new topic called Ottawa to Garnett 4-2 & 4-3-11

2011-04-05 08:02:55 MST

We managed to ride these days, way short of our mark to get to Iola and back in a weekend. Our first time riders did remarkably well to get to Garnett. Surely there has got to be better accomodations other that the Economy Inn? But it appeared to be the only game in town. And it is what is is. Other than that, it was good. Trail conditions great and clear. The wind played a big factor in both down and back. Picked up wind from the southwest about noon that slowed the group on Saturday. Coming home Sunday made doubletime! Sailboat manuevers! Cautioned less experienced riders to stay to the left unless meeting someone to avoid being blown off the trail. I lost an earring there around the lake at Garnett and if anyone finds it I would appreciate getting it back, lol. Why I did not take them off who knows? Anyway good and wonderful ride for most in the group. I am grateful this wonderful resource is available. Thank you to all who 15 years ago made this possible and continue to provide this chance to experience God's glory.

Timon of Athens commented on Ottawa to Garnett 4-2

2011-04-06 11:56:22 MST

Glad you had a good ride M P. I am sure that the wind took a lot out of you on this trip. It was brutal that weekend. I have some friends that were out at the same time and their descriptions were not printable on a family website.

There are several other places to stay in Garnett including a B&B. Make sure any concerns you have about the Economy Inn get an airing here in the forums. If people need to look elsewhere, please let us know why.

As for the trail, now seems to be a great time to get out there. Lots of yellow, white and purple are appearing in the trees and will only last a couple of weeks. I hit the trail about this time last spring and the smell from all the flowering trees was amazing.

Anyway, thanks for the report!

mtanders started a new topic called March 26th ride

2011-03-18 12:52:24 MST

For any who want to join, three of us are riding from Ottawa to Garnett and back on March 26th. We are starting at the Ottawa depot at 9:30am.

Timon of Athens commented on March 26th ride

2011-03-18 18:43:40 MST

Just an update. It's looking like a ride of 5 so far.

Timon of Athens commented on March 26th ride

2011-03-21 07:35:42 MST

Back down to 3. I'm looking for you coverjim.

mtanders commented on March 26th ride

2011-03-22 10:14:54 MST

Because of weather this ride has been moved to Friday at 9:30am instead.

M P Oliver commented on March 26th ride

2011-03-25 10:15:05 MST

Hope you have a good ride. Trail conditions? I aaume wet.

Timon of Athens commented on March 26th ride

2011-03-26 07:28:25 MST

It was a very good ride. I will post a report soon. I have already summarized the trail conditions in the "Trail Conditions?" thread. Looks like you should have a nice ride coming up.

Timon of Athens started a new topic called Trail conditions?

2011-03-11 07:40:03 MST

Well, it's spring on the trial.

Now that it looks like we are hitting a few days without:

1) Snow
2) Freezing Rain
3) Non-freezing Rain
4) Freezing Temperatures
5) Jillion mph winds

has anyone been on the trail recently? Usually at this time of year one can run into softspots, mud and downed tree limbs caused by the aforementioned weather conditions. The tree limbs you can see from a ways away but hitting an invisible softspot while going at a fair clip down the trail is disheartening and possibly flight inducing.

So, those that live near the trail. anything that we should know about?

Timon

M P Oliver commented on Trail conditions?

2011-03-12 09:46:30 MST

Just got the Cannondale out on the driveway here. Been adjusting, adding, and removing all winter. I am good to go, just thinking the same thing myself? We were thinking maybe heading up to 169 hwy for a few miles. David has a rode bike he's worked on all winter he wants to run, (not that I can keep up with it,) not sure he wants to take it on the trail today if ever. Hope to get over there soon. 50 degrees here.

Timon of Athens commented on Trail conditions?

2011-03-18 08:27:16 MST

Drove by the trail yesterday while taking some pictures.Things looked to be in pretty good condition. No visible washouts or other damage. The only problem I saw was water over the trail where if goes under the highway between Colony and Carlyle. I would think that that would most likely be a problem in Richmond also. Plan on riding next Saturday, I will let you all know if there are any problems.

M P Oliver commented on Trail conditions?

2011-03-19 15:39:57 MST

PLease do! WE are planning a ride in a week or two. Thanks!

Timon of Athens commented on Trail conditions?

2011-03-25 20:39:38 MST

Travelled on the trail today (March 25th) between Ottawa and Garnett for about 40 miles. The following observation were made after a light rain the night before and cloudy conditions and temperatures in the 40s-low 50s during the day.

First off, the trail is showing many signs of being maintained. I know quite a few people who are afraid the budget cuts may start to have an effect on this but for now lots of signs are there. The major washout between Princeton and Richmond has been filled in and compacted very nicely. The surface was actually more solid than some other parts of the trail. (It's spring, wetness and freezing has softened parts of the trail. These will firm up as we get closer to summer.)

There were also signs the deadfall has been remove from the trail as well. Some of the trees have been trimmed back from the trail to ensure passage. There was still sawdust from where limbs had been removed so the work was quite current.

Restrooms and water were not ready yet, as expected. This will most likely be opened and turned on in April, after the last freeze. Water at the Ottawa trailhead was on, you just have to hold it on for awhile.

Timon of Athens started a new topic called It's that time of year.

2011-02-23 08:50:46 MST

Well, we are at that point in the calendar where temperatures in Kansas alternate between the 60s and blizzard. Thus, the cyclist's mind turn towards getting that bike off the stand in the garage and starting to lay down the miles for whatever this years goal may be. I just missed last years goal of 1100 miles but I plan to get in 1500 this year as my work schedule will allow me a little more time to get out on the trail. Also there should be some opportunities to bike to work.

The bike is down and spring maintenance is on the agenda. Checking the cables, tires and drive train are on the list. I am a little obsessive about cleaning and oiling the chain because of the time spent on the trail gets a lot of dust into the works.

I also foresee a trip to WalMart this week to get the new year pass for the PST. I like this particular ritual, its like seeing the first robin of the year. It make Spring seem more present and real in the middle of snowstorms. Good cheap investment that.

As for the site, I've just about got the news RSS feed complete. Just need to fix a couple of line dealing the how the code handles dates. This means that you should be able to subscribe for updates an trail conditions and other bits of news. After that, I hope to back away a bit and let visitors develop some of their own community here in the forums and elsewhere on the site.

On a side note here, I will be starting to look for businesses along the trail that wish to advertise on the site in order to defray the costs. If you go to a business off the trail, make sure you let them know if you saw them here. It will help when I contact them and helps give local business owners a positive image of the trail.

Otherwise, I look forward to posting my own speed records sometime this spring and getting some fresh pictures with a new camera. I have some pages set up for new businesses and sites along the trail that just need a visual component to make them ready for everyone. Luckily, some programming over the winter has made it possible to just "flip a switch" once I have the pictures.

See you on the trail,

Timon

M P Oliver started a new topic called Planning ride the end of March or first of April

2011-02-05 18:34:18 MST

Planning a ride with some first time riders. Hoping to ride the whole trail in a weekend. Question; are the trailheads open particularly the restrooms this time of year? We hope the weather will cooperate and no wind, etc.

Timon of Athens commented on Planning ride the end of March or first of April

2011-02-07 22:21:33 MST

Hi Maggie,

The main thing I worry about early in the year is keeping my legs and knees warm during the ride. Otherwise I worry about recent rains. While I have never encountered mud along the trail, It can get soft in areas after a rain. This is not so much wet but areas that don't seem as well packed as it used to be. It just grabs your wheels.

The website and the Department of Wildlife and Parks say that the restrooms open in mid-April. From experience it seems that they seem ready as soon as we have continuous warm weather. The Santa Fe Depot in Garnett is open year round. There are lots of alternatives if needed.

The other thing about the trailheads is that the water gets turned on after what seems as the last freeze. Plan ahead here also.

Have a good ride.

Timon

steelbluebeauty started a new topic called New to recreational cycling

2011-02-03 14:04:19 MST

For someone new to cycling, where would be a good place to start on the trail?

Timon of Athens commented on New to recreational cycling

2011-02-04 21:19:05 MST

It really depend how far are you willing to go.

I think that for a beginner the short stretch between Princeton and Richmond might be pretty nice. It's about 50/50 when it comes to cover vs wide open and it is some of the flatter stretches of the trail.

It also contains a couple of small bridges to go over, a view of a circular house and a pretty view coming into either town.

I would say that if you pace yourself, any two towns offer a nice ride.

Timon

Steven started a new topic called Zarco 66 and Scooter's Coffee

2011-01-29 09:22:44 MST

Before heading back to Kansas City, I stopped at the Zarco 66 near I-35 & Hwy 68. The gas station was incredibly clean. It also offered a variety of fresh and packaged food. Of course, after riding 50 miles I felt the need to eat junk food. But it also offered fresh fruit and other healthy options.

For anyone who needs decent coffee, the store also has an express version of Scooter's Coffeehouse. I know large amounts of caffeine are not recommended for cyclists. But I also know many cyclists who drink coffee before or after their rides. If so, Scooter's (an Omaha-based chain) offers some good coffee and espresso drinks.

Timon of Athens commented on Zarco 66 and Scooter's Coffee

2011-02-04 21:13:59 MST

Thanks for the tip, Steve.

Ottawa is the closest end of the trail to me, so a last minute place to hit before the trail or before the drive home is good to know.

I will look into creating a page for this business after I check it out.

Sam

Timon of Athens started a new topic called Pictures pages are now live.

2011-02-02 08:40:08 MST

The site now has a pictures page for user submitted photos.

A lot of bikers along the trail are also photographers. Here is a chance to show off your picture taking chops.

Pictures are moderated for obvious reasons, so they will not appear immediately upon submission. However, they should appear soon after being submitted. You retain rights to your photographs, and if you decide at a future point to have them taken down, that can be easily done. You can also let me know if you would like your picture considered for use elsewhere on the site.

If you are logged in, you can rate the pictures from one to five or leave comments on pictures that you particularly enjoy.

I am looking forward to our pictures,

Sam

Timon of Athens commented on Pictures pages are now live.

2011-02-02 09:13:12 MST

I should add, the link is under "Quick Information" on the main page.

Steven started a new topic called Iola Restaurant Recommendations

2011-01-24 16:54:26 MST

Some friends and I are planning to do a full out-and-back ride in the Spring. We will be starting in Ottawa, so we should hit Iola at lunchtime. So what's good to eat in Iola? Specifically, where should you eat lunch when you have 50 miles behind you, and another 50 miles in front of you? Any recommendations would be appreciated.

kretzmeier commented on Iola Restaurant Recommendations

2011-01-30 13:59:59 MST

Figuring eating habits differ, here are some choices with directions from the trailhead at mile marker 109:

Subway Franchise - @ 1 1/2 Blocks straight South
B & B Cafe - Just across the street East 50 yards
The Greenery - Sit Down restaurant W/Buffet just
north of the B & B (within eyesight of trailhead)
Taco Bell and Pizza Hut - Back North on State Street
1/4 mile.
McDonalds & Sonic - South 1/2 mile just off State St.
El Charro - (Same menu as El Mescal,Lawrence) On
the S/W of city square 1/2 mile South & 3 blocks East
On Wed & Sat. Dudley's Done Right BBQ @ 5 blocks South
Kings Sandwich Shop - 3/4 mile South
Sirloin Stockade & Applebees - 50 Miles back North in
Ottawa, that's your incentive to get back to Ottawa!

I hope you find something that suits you in Iola
and that you find it a welcoming community.

Timon of Athens started a new topic called Help! (Rant + Winter ride advice request)

2011-01-25 21:39:26 MST

Winter. I want to ride, but I can't. Of course, I have a "friend" on facebook who posts about riding 100 miles every week.

Okay, does anyone here bike during the winter? I mean in the snow and ice. What would you consider essential equipment? Gloves? Booties? Sunglasses? I live near some local highways with reasonable shoulders, so a route isn't a problem. A nice 40 mile ride seems doable.

mtanders started a new topic called Love the new mileage chart

2011-01-24 14:11:46 MST

Very helpful thank you. Quick question on Scipio though. Never been there but was thinking of going there for my midway bike lunch. Has anyone ever been to the restaurant in Scipio? Any good? How far from the trail is the restaurant?

Timon of Athens commented on Love the new mileage chart

2011-01-25 14:20:14 MST

Sorry I don't have too much information for you but here's what I do know.

First of all, it is in fact a supper club.They open at 6, so a lunch is not possible.

Scipio Super Club is (at least) partly owned by the daughter of the woman who runs Colony Food and Sundries is Colony. It seems that they both live in Scipio. From all I have heard they serve good, solid steakhouse food for mostly local clientele. (Steaks, baked potatoes, etc. I hear that Friday is shrimp night.)

Also, it seems that large part of their customers are motorcycle riders.

I am hoping to stop in later this year. It looks like fun.

Anybody actually eaten here?

Timon of Athens started a new topic called Old Depot Museum - Worth a stop.

2011-01-23 20:30:27 MST

I have started my rides on the trail many time from the Old Depot Museum. Not just for the free parking and water fountain.

The old depot is one of two classic train stations along the trail. There are nice benches to sit in to get your self ready and some nice shade under the eves in the morning.

That said, it is worth your time to set aside an hour to go through the museum at some time.

My only wish is that there was some type of restroom available here during the times that the museum isn't open. The lack of a restroom along the trail in Ottawa is a problem and a restroom is a part of any good pre-ride prep.

jlovitt started a new topic called Course Record

2010-07-05 18:35:04 MST

I was curious if anyone had established a course record for riding all the way from one end to the other. Does anyone know? If not, it might be a fun thing to try to do. GPS tracks could be posted as proof.

John

Timon of Athens commented on Course Record

2010-07-06 18:36:28 MST

I haven't seen too many people pushing themselves down the trail for speed. Mostly recreational riders. However, it sounds like fun. Set the benchmark and we will see what happens. Once the repairs are finished near Welda, we can have a "King/Queen of the Trail."

Timon

Timon of Athens commented on Course Record

2010-07-06 18:38:54 MST

Also, I would be remiss not to welcome you to the site. Thanks for posting.

Timon

jlovitt commented on Course Record

2010-07-06 18:39:54 MST

Oops, I didn't notice that part of the trail was closed until you said that. Looking at the website it sounds like it will be closed for at least a year, but I don't know when they started. Any idea when it will open up again?

John

Timon of Athens commented on Course Record

2010-07-06 18:40:45 MST

Everything I have seen looks like Summer 2011. That is assuming on-time delivery of services. Let's just say that I am not holding my breath. My guess would be late summer.

Timon

jlovitt commented on Course Record

2010-07-06 18:41:37 MST

Hmmmm...
Maybe if I did a South to North run early on a Saturday morning the traffic wouldn't be too bad and I could take the +1 mile detour instead of the +3 mile detour. Any idea what the traffic is usually like on a weekend morning? I ride in light traffic when I go to work in the mornings, so I'm used to some level of traffic. I will try to scout it out sometime.

Timon of Athens commented on Course Record

2010-07-06 18:42:49 MST

Traffic is usually not too heavy, 3-5 cars per minute would be my guess. It is an important North/South connection. If you are used to traffic, I don't think you will have much problem.

Timon

jlovitt commented on Course Record

2010-09-27 08:03:17 MST

I think I'm going to try to do this on Saturday October 2nd. I will probably carry some water and food with me. I think I will just go straight through the construction zone, walking if I have to.
I am going to wait until that morning to see which way the wind is blowing to decide if I ride North or South.

John

Timon of Athens commented on Course Record

2010-09-27 08:14:27 MST

Sounds like fun. There is a nice work around the detour that I have found.

From North to South.

At Welda trailhead turn left at 1000 RD. Go about two blocks and cut through the parking lot at Old Schoolhouse Antiques. Continue to the HWY and follow the detour. After about a 1/4 mile, you will see a short sideroad/parking area that runs right up to the trail. Continue on and make your record.

I have "shot the tunnel" once. Very rough but possible. I wouldn't want to do it with workers around.

Hope this helps.

jlovitt commented on Course Record

2010-09-28 10:11:59 MST

Thanks for the tip, that sounds very helpful. I will follow your directions if I go from North to South. Do you have a GPS log of this detour?
If you have a use for it, I will have a GPS log of the whole trail I can give you once the trip is done.

John

Timon of Athens commented on Course Record

2010-09-29 08:17:26 MST

I don't have a GPS record. I wouldn't currently have a use for one.

If you go South to North. Basically shoot the barrier and continue on the trail until you see a short side road about one block from the tunnel. This will take you the 50 feet or so to the detour on Old Colony Road. Head for Welda and the trailhead.

Have a good ride. It looks like I might get in a nice 50 miler on Friday. Weather looks great.

jlovitt commented on Course Record

2010-10-02 18:46:24 MST

I did it. End to end in 4:01:59.
I will post all of the stats as well as a link to the GPS recording overlaid on the map.
It was a great trip with the wind at my back riding South, and it felt really good up until the last 20 miles. At that point the trail seemed to all be uphill and I just ran out of gas since I hadn't had lunch yet, and it was after noon.
I pushed through it and then about 4 miles from the end I realized that if I pushed it harder I might get it under 3 hours. I pushed hard and especially when I got to the pavement in Iola, but it was too late. Just over 4 hours. I guess that gives me something to shoot for if I'm ever crazy enough to do this again.

Timon of Athens commented on Course Record

2010-10-03 19:02:27 MST

I hereby declare John the current King of the Trail.

Seriously, sounds like you had a good trip. Even if the last ten miles were almost all downhill, I know how hour four can wear on you. I mean to do this some time, the only thing holding me back is the logistics of getting picked up at the end. All my current trips end with biking back to the car.

Send us a detailed account when you have the time.

jlovitt commented on Course Record

2010-10-04 08:28:10 MST

OK, here is a link to all the details:
http://connect.garmin.com/activity/51681990
Time: 04:01:59
Distance: 51.25 mi
Moving Time: 03:50:57
Elapsed Time: 04:01:59
Avg Speed: 12.7 mph
Avg Moving Speed: 13.3 mph
Max Speed: 21.8 mph

I had a friend drive with me down to Iola, we left my truck there and then drove to Ottawa. Because of all this I didn't get started until 10am, which meant I was starving at noon, but didn't want to stop to eat. I ate mixed nuts and trail mix out of my pockets to keep myself going.
As far as stops go, I filled up my water bottle before I left in Ottawa and that lasted me a long time. I had my money already in the envelope and dropped it in the box in Princeton. Just stopped long enough to slide the envelope in the slot. Then I stopped again somewhere in the middle of nowhere, I think between Garnett and Welda to read a couple of text messages from well-wishers. I sent some replies as I was riding.
The longest stop was at 3:08 I think at the Colony Trail Head. At this point I was out of water and stopped to fill up and rest my legs. Two other gentlemen stopped there and asked directions to a nearby town which I showed them on the GPS. After chatting for a bit and resting, I headed off again.
I'd like to think that if I hadn't stopped for so long I could have had a sub-4-hour time, but I don't know. I was pretty beat and my legs needed the rest.

It was a really fun trip, that I thought would be a one-time thing, but I can see doing it again. I saw some really nice scenery that I hadn't seen before. The other thing was the really nice tailwind I had the whole way. I'm sure that made even more difference than I can imagine.

JL

Codeman112 commented on Course Record

2010-10-11 10:15:45 MST

Thanks for the challange! I got to ride the trail over the weekend (parking lot to parking lot). I did it in about three and a half hours. I used 700x35 cross tires on my single speed 'cross bike which worked pretty well. Not too many other people out riding, saw a few in town but only maybe 2 others between towns.

Time: 03:30:18
Distance: 51.36 mi
Avg Speed: 14.7 mph

Also see:
http://connect.garmin.com/activity/52573050

Timon of Athens commented on Course Record

2010-10-11 10:58:03 MST

Okay, now it is on.

Give me some time and I will create a page just for this competition, complete with verification and leaderboard.

Nicely done, Codeman112.

jlovitt commented on Course Record

2010-10-11 19:05:51 MST

Wow, that is a great time!
Congratulations!

Not sure if I even want to try to beat that. I suspect that time will stand for a while.

Timon of Athens commented on Course Record

2011-01-21 12:56:52 MST

Okay, you gave me the time.

The course record page is now active. Submit your data at your leisure.

As the list build I will decide where to limit it. Most likely it will be limited to a top ten, but for now it will just be a full-on leaderboard.

Onward to create the user-submitted pictures page. Get your cameras ready.

Timon

Timon of Athens started a new topic called Trail Ride 09/02/2010 - Ottawa to Garnett

2011-01-13 16:51:19 MST

I've been meaning to add a link to this nice ride report. Also a lot of interesting information on the rest of the blog.

It's winter, if I didn't read about cycling I would forget what it was.

http://getspoked.wordpress.com/2010/09/02/prairie-spirit-trail

M P Oliver started a new topic called Structure north of Carlyle

2010-10-28 09:33:50 MST

I wanted to ask if anyone can tell me about the galvanized fence along the trail just a little north of Carslyle? I could see an old big debililated concrete structure through the timber and brush. Just curious about this fence and what used to be there. My husband and I have spent the last two years on the KATY riding most of it and the Frisco highline - and some on the Prairie. The Prairie is the closest and most convienent and it seems to be improving since we were there early spring this year. KATY is wonderful but we have grown tired of this for the year and hope to ride cold weather this fall and winter on the prairie.

kretzmeier commented on Structure north of Carlyle

2010-12-08 13:35:46 MST

The area surrounding Iola was known for it's plentiful supply of natural gas in the early 1900's. The name Gas City 2 miles East of Iola comes from the gas boom days. Many companies came to the area for the inexpensive gas and accordingly there were many smelters, brick plants, and cement plants in the area. The building remains you mention come from that era. Three to four miles straight longitudal east are quarries and similar remains in an area referred to as Concreto. Since there is no quarry in the area of the reamins you site, it was most likely was not a cement plant. The fence appears to run about 1/4 mile each direction of the old remains you mention and is likely there to discourage adventurers between Texas and Utah county roads. I have witnessed deer there and observed the fence is not much of an obstacle for them! Best regards and I hope you will return to the Prairie Spirit in the future. There is interesting history like Hi-Point in Colony, old jail in Iola and General Frederick Funston who was raised near Carlyle.

randyR commented on Structure north of Carlyle

2010-12-08 18:10:16 MST

Cool history lesson, Jay. Thanks for sharing!

kretzmeier commented on Structure north of Carlyle

2010-12-06 23:32:15 MST

I started to answer your inquiry from my iPod. About 12 min. Later I finished and then lost all I had keyed. I will make an effort to answer when I am at a full keyboard.
Jay Kretzmeier. Iola, Ks

Timon of Athens commented on Structure north of Carlyle

2010-12-18 17:03:10 MST

Let me second randyR's thanks to Jay for the cool information. I had always thought that that long stretch of fence was someone concerned that those 'idiot bikers' invading their land. Just knowing that isn't the case makes the trail seem a little friendlier to me.

Timon of Athens commented on Structure north of Carlyle

2010-12-18 17:07:58 MST

Also, I will take the bait and let you know that I am interested in "Hi-Point in Colony, old jail in Iola and General Frederick Funston who was raised near Carlyle." Are the first two worth a side trip from the trail?

kretzmeier commented on Structure north of Carlyle

2011-01-08 22:25:24 MST

Further information - Allen County Historians advise me that the remains north of Carlyle would be from the "Lumbermen's Cement Company" which operated in the early 1900's but ran into early financial difficulty and had a short life. It was close to the rail so as to ship and receive goods. I have spoken to a 62 year old local who was given a tour inside the remains when he was younger. A google map search does reflect a body of water approximately 400 yards south and east which appears may to have been a limestone quarry for the facility.

Another Allen County landmark is the Iola Jail Museum. The Allen County Jail was built in 1869 and was the oldest jail in use in the state when it was replaced in 1958. A native stone structure located on North Jefferson street, one of the museum stories is that when the jail had only been open one year, in 1870 a mob overpowered the sheriff, removed a prisoner and proceeded to a barn where the inmate was hung.

I would like to think we are more civil and friendly in Iola now than they were back then! Best Regards.

Timon of Athens commented on Structure north of Carlyle

2011-01-12 08:19:45 MST

A little searching has turned up pictures of both of these.

Here's the cement company:
http://www.kansastowns.us/iola/carlyle.html

Here's the old jail:
http://www.kansastravel.org/allencountyjailmuseum.htm

I am considering adding "point of interest" pages for each of these. If anybody has any other sites with interesting stories, keep'em coming.

Sam

Timon of Athens started a new topic called Runner's report - 11/07/2010

2010-12-30 11:20:45 MST

Came across this report of a runner doing the entire trail so I thought I would add it to the posts here.

http://runnerfreak69.blogspot.com/2010/11/prairie-spirit-trail-run-51-miles.html

Timon of Athens started a new topic called Maps page is live.

2010-12-22 12:09:16 MST

After sitting fallow forever, we finally have some maps sent to us from trailrider and cartographer Bill Sample,

Look for this section to expand in the near future as some maps are prepared that will be quick "print-n-go" maps designed to get you down the trail.

Timon

Timon of Athens started a new topic called Passwords available for previous accounts

2010-12-15 09:17:56 MST

If you have previously posted in these forums and would like to keep your previous username, I have set up accounts in the new login system with those names.

In order to access these accounts you will need to contact me at admin*at*bikeprairiespirit*dot*com. I will email the password for your username back to you. If you are unfond of the password, do not worry. I am currently writing the code that will allow you to change the password and username once you have logged in.

Thanks again for the patience everyone. Just for perspective, Spam filtered in month before login system = 1874, Spam after (so far) = 0. While I know that some will want the information on porn and viagra, they can find it elsewhere.

Timon

Timon of Athens commented on Passwords available for previous accounts

2010-12-21 09:10:32 MST

The password change page is now active. You may access it by clicking on Edit Profile once you have logged in.

Next on the docket, the maps page (finally).

Sam

Timon of Athens started a new topic called New forums are active.

2010-12-13 09:34:57 MST

As you should be able to see, the new forums with a login are active. This should eliminate the need for me to moderate the incoming messages by hand. Thus, immediate posting is back.

This should all work, but since I have done this by hand, there could be typos and problems. Let me know if you run into any. I will be fixing them as fast as they come in.

The styling is still a little rough, but that should be cleaned up quickly also.

Let me know if this works for you. I will soon be adding links for lost passwords, changing your password, a page for speed records on the trail, and a couple other surprises.

Lastly, thank you all for your patience. A lot had to change under the hood to get the new system to work, but a lot of the changes will make later updates faster.

Work will slow down during the next month, thus giving me more time to work on the site.

Seasons greeting y'all,

Timon

Timon of Athens started a new topic called Spambots have found us.

2010-10-25 08:33:10 MST

As you have seen recently, the spam-bots have found this site and have started to dump their junk on our forums. I have been cleaning out the database as fast as I can. That is the short -term solution.

The long-term solution is that I will be introducing the need to register to use the forum. The will allow me to block the bots but also allow me to introduce several other features I have been working on.

Let me apologize for those of you that have received the spam through the rss link, I just wanted you all to know that I have been working on the problem.

Timon of Athens commented on Spambots have found us.

2010-10-29 11:15:21 MST

Just a quick update. I have instituted human moderation of the forums until I get the logon system in place. The main result is nothing will appear on the forums until someone can look it over to make sure that it is not spam. Unfortunately, this will create a delay.

I wish to apologize to anyone who has subscribed to the RSS feed and has just gotten a load of idiot mail. We will see if I can get the shields up.

Timon

Timon of Athens commented on Spambots have found us.

2010-11-26 13:08:56 MST

Just to let all of you know, the login system is just about done. I just have to figure out why the system won't let you log out. As soon as this problem is solved, The system will go up.

The new system will include a new look for the forums and thread displays. It will also keep you logged in so you don't have to type in you information repeatedly. And, as is important to many, avatars will be available to personalize your posts.

If you have already sent messages to this forum, I have created an account for you under that name. If you send me an e-mail, I will send to the password for that account. You may change it at your leisure.

As a final note, since I have instituted human moderation of the forums, I have prevented over 300 pieces of spam. The bastards are persistent.

hipjessie started a new topic called Hi Everyone

2010-11-20 03:14:00 MST

Hi every body, new face at this forum.

Timon of Athens commented on Thanks

2010-11-04 11:22:20 MST

Randy,

First of all, welcome to the site. We appreciate all the users and just hope to be able to provide the information that enables people to enjoy the trail.

Secondly, if you go to each city page here on the site, you will see that the map provided will clearly mark where the trailhead is. If you click on the "View a larger map" link, you will be taken to google maps with the same spot marked. Click on the tack and choose "get directions to this spot." Hope that helps.

Finally, thank you for your kind words about the site. There's quite a bit of work that goes on behind the scenes and your words are encouraging.

Timon

Randy started a new topic called Thanks

2010-11-02 05:52:50 MST

Hello. Just found this website and wanted to let you know I think you've done a great job with it and commend you for providing it.
My wife and I are rail-to-trail enthusiasts and have ridden rails-to-trails all over the US and Canada. One major problem is getting good up to date info on the trail like where exactly the trail heads are and what sections are finished etc... It can be really tough finding trail heads when you're from out-of-town and not familiar with the area.
We rode the Prairie Spirit 10 years ago. We're planning on coming back now that it's expanded to Iola and that's how I found this site.
You can check out our rail-to-trail at http://locojoe.com/bikeblog

Thanks.

Timon of Athens started a new topic called Problems submitting to the forum?

2010-10-28 09:43:17 MST

I have been getting reports from people having problems submitting to the forum. I have been running tests through several operating systems and browsers and have not been able to replicate the problem.

If you are having this problem, please send me you operating system and browser through the contact page or directly at admin@bikeprairiespirit.com.

Thanks, Timon

Timon of Athens started a new topic called Trailhead Restroom Closures

2010-10-18 11:09:01 MST

I know that the restrooms at the trailheads usually close in October, but there hasn't been an update to the state parks site since April. Has anybody seen any information about when they will close this year?

If the weather stays like it has been, I would say late November would be a good time.

Steven started a new topic called Great food and atmosphere

2010-10-16 07:05:22 MST

I had lunch at the Coffee Loft yesterday. The food and atmosphere are great here. The owners have really worked hard to create a modern, urbane environment. The lunch crowd appeared to be a nice cross-section of the local community.

The menu is comprised of contemporary bistro fare. I had a delicious Chicken Artichoke Panini. The complete menu is available at: http://coffeeloftgarnett.com/menu/.

Timon of Athens started a new topic called The Coffee Loft - A Lovely Bistro Atmosphere

2010-10-15 16:29:26 MST

Stopped here today in the middle of a 50 miler from Ottawa to Garnett and back.

While I had heard that there was good food here, I was not prepared for a very impressive bistro atmosphere with marble-top tables and an impressive menu.

While I had a very good reuben, my traveling companion had a chicken artichoke panini which looked better. The staff was very attentive and made sure that we never needed anything. I was very tempted by the desserts but the sandwich had left me feeling full.

I have to say that we both left very satisfied.

Timon of Athens started a new topic called Princeton Quick Stop - Booze and Pizza

2010-10-08 20:04:52 MST

The Princeton Quick Stop has all the traditional amenities that you might expect from a convenience store, gas, food, soda.

The pluses that a biker of the trail might enjoy include hot pizza and a liquor store.

I guess it depends on the biking group.

Timon of Athens started a new topic called Welda Detour Update

2010-10-01 18:29:07 MST

Much has changed since I was last through so I thought I would mention it as several people have said that they plan on going through this weekend.

The highway is open, the trail is not. They tore the trail up pretty badly while tearing down the overpass, so the trail is still closed between 1000 Rd (Commercial Drive) and SW 900 Rd. Here are my recommendation for a detour.

North to South:

Follow the trail all the way to SW Maryland Rd. You'll know you are there because there is a bright orange net across the trail. Turn left and cross the highway to Old Colony Rd. This is less scary now as all the traffic is on the highway and not detouring here. Turn right and travel about 500 yards. You will come to and short access road that connects to the trail. You will continue on the trail for awhile until you come to where it is really open. That is, there is a bright orange net across it. You will have to get off the bike and walk around it.

South to North: Reverse above.

Hope this helps. It adds about 150 yards to your trip rather than the 3 miles the recommended detour does.

Be safe everyone.

Timon of Athens commented on Welda Detour Update

2010-10-07 07:46:30 MST

Looks like we are finally done dealing with this.

Kansas Department of Transportation has announced that the tunnel under the highway at Welda will open (along with the trail) on Friday, October 8th.

The weather is still nice, lets get in some rides before the sleet hits and they close down the trailheads.

mtanders started a new topic called State Park?

2010-09-27 09:21:17 MST

I heard that the P.S. trail is now a state park. What does this mean for the trail? Price? Does it mean that the restrooms on the trail will actually stay open past October? I guess I'm wondering if anything about the trail will change now that it is considered a state park.

Timon of Athens commented on State Park?

2010-10-06 10:12:38 MST

Well M,

I have a couple of standing e-mails sent to the Kansas Dept of Wildlife and Parks, but they are not answering. From what I have been able to pick up from hear and there(Thanks Jay), the funding will become more stable and there is the newly acquired park ranger to consider.

If anyone knows more, I would like to hear it.

Timon of Athens started a new topic called Colony Diner - Good Food and Good Prices

2010-10-01 18:19:16 MST

I hadn't had a chance to stop in here before and since I hit town at about 11:30, it seemed like a good time to give it a shot.

I was greeted at the door and quickly welcomed into the diner. I stat a a comfortable table and surveyed the menu. I think the only that made sense to have was the quintessential diner food, the burger. There was a salad bar, but after about twenty miles, I wanted a burger. Also, it was $2.59.

I received a hand-formed, well-done burger that was just what I needed.

Service was fast and friendly and several patron were interested in the out-of-towner. I answered several questions about where I started and where I was going. Most of them seemed interested in what I thought of the trail.

We had a nice chat about the trail, the weather and all the other things that people talk about in a small town diner.

I will be back.

Timon of Athens started a new topic called Old School Flea Market - Good in a pinch

2010-10-01 17:20:08 MST

Stopped here at about 10 in the morning during a ride from Garnett to Colony and back.

Went in and saw pretty much what I expected, an old school gymnasium filled with various detritus of past lives. Old books, VHS tapes and other bric-a-brac. However, in interest of the traveller was several racks of snacks and a refrigerator full of water and soda.

The man I assume was the owner was a bit taciturn, but helpful enough. I bought a soda and looked around for awhile. When I came out the cat was done inspecting my bike, so I went on my way.

Timon of Athens started a new topic called Another look behind the curtain.

2010-09-30 12:56:58 MST

I have some site issues to share with you all.

1) I am currently working on converting the news items into a RSS feed so that people won't feel that they have to check all the time to see it there is new content. I have already started to build an RSS feed for the forum for the same purpose. It will update whenever someone posts on the forums.

I will have a link on the main forum page soon. If you can't wait that long, you can put the link feed://bikeprairiespirit.com/forum/forumfeed.php directly into browser or newsreader. If you use Mac's Mail program, you get nice updates as if they were e-mail.

They are a couple of things that I am working around here and I need to clean up the presentation a bit, but the weather is nice and I feel the need to hit the trail before it gets cold. I have 250 miles out of my goal of 1100 to finish up before the year's end.

2) I have removed a couple of businesses that I have been informed have closed. If you have information like this, keep me updated! It is quite helpful as I live 30 miles from the trail. Any updates to site information are appreciated.

I have heard of a Mexican restaurant in Ottawa called Maria's that is supposed to be excellent. If anyone has more info, let me know. I should have a page up for it soon.

Thanks all,
Timon

Timon of Athens started a new topic called Fall on the Trail

2010-09-27 06:30:31 MST

I've had several friends ask me to take them on the trail this week, so I might actually be able to get out and go for a ride. They seem to be most interested in a Ottawa to Garnet and back ride, with a stop in Garnett for lunch.

Here's the question. Since I haven't been able to get on the trail for over a month. How's it holding up? I remember it was a little soft at times between Garnett and Richmond on the newly opened section. Has this had time to sunbake and firm-up? Also, are the trees starting to turn? I know we are getting close to the time for the Maple Leaf Festival in Baldwin so the time seems about right for pretty colors.

Just need one good frost to kill the spiders.

Timon

jcover commented on Fall on the Trail

2010-09-29 16:02:17 MST

The last time I was riding down toward the new bridge the erosion was still there. Would recommend that you ride single file in the eroded area. Not a lot of color on the trail but still some color occasionally. Its still a worthwhile ride. See you on the trail.

Timon of Athens started a new topic called Are there any services in Carlyle besides the Trailhead?

2010-09-27 08:45:44 MST

I am looking for anything that might be of interest to the traveller. Soda Machine, scenic vista, opium den. If you know of any of these, let me know so that I can check tham out and get them on the site.

Timon

Trailbum started a new topic called What kind of bike works well?

2010-09-21 06:40:58 MST

I'm thinking of giving the trail a try. I was wondering what kind of bike does everyone recommend? I have a couple of bikes available to me, mostly old ten speeds. My usual trips are about ten miles twice a week around the neighborhood. Anybody have a good recommendation for a route for the first couple of times?

Timon of Athens commented on What kind of bike works well?

2010-09-21 11:44:14 MST

I use a Schwinn Voyager. It's a low-end hybrid that I got used. You can see it in the picture on the Welda page. It has served me for about 1500 miles on rail-trails and about 500 more on roads and highways. I think that the major improvement off the rack is that I have added slime to the tires. Thus, I have only had to change a tube once and that was on the Katy Trail after crossing a road.

I have heard of people taking the trail on road tires. While it may pack down over time, I would think that right now there are some spots that would be a little soft for that. Thick tires are your friends.

As for a first ride, you could do worse than going between Princeton and Richmond. It's a pretty flat stretch and out and back would be about 16 miles.

jcover commented on What kind of bike works well?

2010-09-21 18:59:11 MST

I would like to suggest that you bring a couple of spare tubes, a frame pump, patch kit and tools to remove the tire from the rim. Pick out a book at the library that will teach you how to patch a tube. My favorite bike for the trail is an atb with 26 inch wheels and urban tires mounted on the rims but the 10 speeds will work fine, but be careful in loose gravel. Good luck - hope to see on the trail

jlovitt commented on What kind of bike works well?

2010-09-27 08:07:25 MST

I would look at all of the bikes available to you and pick the road bike that has the widest tires.
I think a lot of people on the trail use mountain bikes or hybrids.
I use a mountain bike with somewhat narrow tires (38mm?) or a road bike with somewhat wide tires (35mm?)

I have always started riding in Ottawa, which is nice because you have pavement for a little while, but other than that I don't have a suggestion for which portion to ride. Maybe just pick the closest portion to where you live.

John

Wolvescoach started a new topic called Water at trailheads

2010-09-14 08:56:24 MST

Rode the trail on 9/6/10 from the Ottawa trailhead to Richmond and back. Can anyone tell me why the water fountains at both Ottawa and Princeton do not work? Is the water turned off to both those sites?

Timon of Athens commented on Water at trailheads

2010-09-15 08:30:23 MST

I noticed both of these back in June. At Richmond you can get water in the sink in the bathroom, but at Ottawa it would be really nice to either 1) Fill up your bottles before heading out or 2) Have a nice long cold drink after a hot ride.

In most of trailmanager Trent's latest postings, he seems to talk a lot about cutbacks in manhours that are available to work on the trail.

jcover commented on Water at trailheads

2010-09-16 16:32:21 MST

These freeze-proof fountains require a slightly different technique to turn on. Press in on the buttons and hold for at least 10 seconds. The Princeton fountain required both of my thumbs to activate.

Timon of Athens started a new topic called Major Update Soon

2010-09-06 07:38:52 MST

Just a quick note to let you all know what is coming.

Forums will soon be onsite. I have the programing done that will make the leftora forums a thing of the past. Posts will be indexed so that they appear at the bottom of pages to which they relate. So if you write a post on The Coffee Loft, it will appear on the main forum page, on the Garnett page, and on the Coffee Loft page. I have also threaded the posts so that you can read a complete discussion.

This will all appear after I manage a tricky javascript/php/html combo for a autofilled select box.

So, coming soon.

Timon

Timon of Athens commented on Major Update Soon

2010-09-10 08:18:27 MST

As you can see, here they are.

You will notice that when you are choosing the category and subcategory when submitting you message, you are choosing which pages other than the general forums, that they will appear.

There were a lot of thing that happened under the hood to make this happen, so if you come across a broken link let me know.

Thanks,
Timon

williekck commented on Major Update Soon

2010-09-13 06:27:51 MST

Timon

Good job on the comment forum. I am sure that it was more work than we realize.

One other thing. Do you have any sense of what time of year that the prevailing wind is from the north. I would like to try a north to south ride, but I need all the help I can get.

Thanks

Dave commented on Major Update Soon

2010-09-14 05:35:07 MST

Willie,

Weather around here typically has prevailing winds from the south year round, so there isn't a really good time of year to plan a trip north to south. I would guess that early spring would probably be your best option, although it will really be hit or miss.

Steve G started a new topic called Bike rental?

2010-09-12 12:45:02 MST

Hi,

I'm just planning a holiday in Kansas and came across this trail in the Kansas visitors guide. It's just the sort of thing I like to do, but flying from the UK I'm not going to have a bike with me. I was hoping I might be able to rent a bike, but I'm not having any luck finding anything.

There's an opportunity there for an enterprising person to set up a business one day, but for now I'm going to have to give this a miss.

Best Wishes.
Steve.

Timon of Athens commented on Bike rental?

2010-09-12 16:22:12 MST

If your plans include Lawrence, there are many shops there that would be happy to rent to you. Sunflower Outdoor and Bike is one good option with very reasonable rates. You can check them out at sunfloweroutdoorandbike.com.

Have a good trip and hope to see you on the trail!

Timon

Timon of Athens started a new topic called Bike Supplies at Tipton BnB

2010-09-10 06:42:40 MST

The website for this place says that it provides bike service. Does anyone know what this entails? Do they have a garage with tools or do they have experience and stock things like tubes?

Timon of Athens started a new topic called Casey's - Fine for a Quick Bite

2010-09-06 17:20:01 MST

Since this is so close to the start of the trail at the Old Depot, I have been here several times. It is usually good for a bag of trail mix or other snacks for along the way.

Bathrooms before you start are not a bad idea either.

williekck started a new topic called Trail Ride 8/27/2010 - Iola to Richmond

2010-08-28 09:53:35 MST

One day ride on 8/27/2010
Iola - Stayed overnight at the Best Western. Retro style motel that is adequate for a one night stay. Clean - Limited breakfast that opens at 6 AM for those who like to start early. Best thing about it, is that the southern terminus of the trail is right at its doorstep

Trail is paved about a mile in Iola. Road crossings are well marked all along the trail.
The first fee box I found was at Carlyle. I did not see any in Iola, but may have missed it.
Trail is generally uphill all the way to Colony. Not much - but noticable to an old man like me.

Colony - Stopped at diner to buy some Gatorade but they did not have any. Nice lady offered me some cold water. Coke machines outside of diner has cold soft drinks for 50 cents.

Welda - At the Welda detour I just went around the barricade and stayed on the trail until I came to the construction. There is a little cutoff just before the construction that gets you onto the alternate detour. It is really rough but you are only on it for about a quarter mile. I turned off at the first road going west and found the trail about a quarter mile west. Never did see the Welda trailhead. Make sure you have water because it did not appear to be anywhere to buy it.

Garnett - Good paved section through Garnett. Old train station has good bathrooms. It appeared to be a museum, but there was nobody around. Interesting old photos inside. Ate lunch at Denise diner. All you can eat buffett for $7.99 on Fridays less 50 cents for the over 60's. Fried chicken, fried catfish, fried shrimp, fried okra - all the stuff I like. Ice cream and cake for dessert. Sign says they will be closed on Mondays, and will close every day at 2 PM.

Garnett to Richmond - Enjoyed the downhill that runs about half way to Richmond, but you pay for it the last half when it is all uphill. It started getting hot so I stopped at the Richmond trailhead and had my wife come and pick me up.

Overall impressions - Enjoyable ride. Have ridden the Katy Trail a couple of times and the Prairie Spirit is just as good. The surface is a little deep in spots - not packed down - and there are a few ruts but it is mostly in good shape. There are mile markers along the way. The first one I saw at Iola was mile 108 and the one at Richmond was about mile 74.
I started at the south end of the trail to take advantage of a forecasted south wind, but it mostly did not materialize.
There is a pretty good tree canopy over most of the trail but it seemed to be running out as I got close to Richmond.

This is a good website - Thanks to whoever is in charge

Timon of Athens commented on Trail Ride 8/27/2010 - Iola to Richmond

2010-08-28 09:59:43 MST

Willie,

First of all, thank you for the kind words. They are appreciated.

About that detour at Welda, I have found that while heading north you can be a rebel and go all the way through the tunnel. Walk or carry your bike about 50 yards over some rough dirt and you are back on the trail. Too bad you didn't find the trail at Welda, I checked the water there about two weeks ago and it was running.

Timon

jcover commented on Trail Ride 8/27/2010 - Iola to Richmond

2010-08-29 14:47:02 MST

Several years ago when I was younger and Welda marked the end of the trail, I used to go east at the trailhead on 1000 road and purchase candy bars and drinks at a shop called old school house antiques. It may not still be open but it's worth checking out if you're in downtown Welda. See you on the trail.

Timon of Athens commented on Trail Ride 8/27/2010 - Iola to Richmond

2010-08-29 14:50:13 MST

It's still there. I just have never seen it open. I will check into next time I am there to see if I can find hours. If they still have drinks and snacks, I'll add a page for them here. Garnett to Colony is a long slog without provisions.

Timon

Timon of Athens started a new topic called Trail Ride 8/13/2010 - Garnett to Colony

2010-08-16 18:12:35 MST

Well, I knew it would be hot.

Met up with Randy from Kansas Cyclist last Friday for a good ride on the trail. We had agreed on these forums that we would meet-up at 9 in Garnett and head south for what we knew would be a nice ride. I had not met Randy in person previously, we had just sent some emails back and forth over website matters. He turned out to have the three Ps; punctual, polite and personable.

I pulled up at the trailhead at 8:50 and Randy was already there. I got out to get myself ready and we introduced each other. It was already 90 degrees. I went into the depot and applied the sunblock, top off the water bottles, came out and we were off.

It is always nice to ride the trail with someone else who can bring a different perspective on things. We discussed biking, each of our websites, the history of the trail and just things like which detour we would take at Welda. This sort of thing made the miles go quickly between Garnett and Welda. We saw a lot of wildlife, rabbits, lizards and a big green snake in the middle of the trail. The trail needed a little upkeep as there were some pretty big limbs down on the trail.

We hit the open about 3 miles out of Welda and started to feel the wind. It was about 15 miles an hour out of the south. There's always a headwind. The main benefit was that it helped keep us cool.

After a brief stop in Welda where Randy took some pictures of the old schoolhouse and an abandoned cafe, we decided to take the Old Colony Road detour along with the limited traffic. It had the benefit of following the trail closely and about a quarter mile past the construction there was a small access rod that got us back on the trail and off the rough road. We were rebels and had to go around the blockades across the trail where the detour officially started.

For those that have not been on this section of the trail between Welda and Colony, it is very open. No windblock, almost no shade, and for a good amount of the time you are between a dirt road and the highway. Now, this is not without its charms. Randy stopped at some Plum trees that were reachable from the trail. He informed my that the bright red fruit was ripe, sweet and delicious. I took his word for it. The heat was starting to get to me and I wasn't feeling quite as chipper as I usually was in this point of a ride. Water seemed like a better idea than fruit. My cycle computer informed me that we were at 95 degrees at about 10:30 in the morning.

We made Colony and I could tell that I needed to turn back. I felt bad because I knew that Randy wanted to make it to Iola and back. However, I figured being honest would make a better impression than cracking later on the trail so told him that I wasn't feeling the best. I hoped that he would go on, but I must of looked pretty bad because he offered to turn back also.

We stopped in at Colony foods where I got a Gatorade and Randy got a Dr. Pepper. I knew that the owner there lived in Scipio from previous discussions, so I asked her where the Scipio Supper Club was. I had read about it numerous times on the web but kept finding different addresses. Turns out that her daughter had just bought it and is running it. Having nailed down the location it is now added to the site. It's nice because it is right off the trail.

Well, we turned back and I was humbled. The rest at Colony did me good but the temp also went up. Over 100 now. The good news was that with wind was at our backs. Randy and I talked about the bicycle laws in Iola which require all cycles in the city to be registered. Not just residents, everyone. I have not seen this enforced, but if you were in an accident it could be trouble. I will post more on this situation in the news section.

As I huffed my way into Garnett. I knew turning around was an excellent idea. Another twenty miles on that day would not have been a good idea for me. Randy was the picture of health and most likely could have made Ottawa at that point. We loaded up out bikes and were both off. He back to Olathe, me to take some pictures around Garnett for the site. After a stop at Sonic for a Cherry Limeade.

Overall, for me a tough ride. I have made this ride several times without problems, even previously on a day with comparable temps. Somedays your body just says no. I was glad I was smart enough to listen this time.

Timon

Timon of Athens started a new topic called Best Connection to the Flint Hills Nature Trail

2010-07-19 12:40:56 MST

Since I rode this Friday, I thought that I would save everyone the time looking for it. Until the FHNT is fully developed in town, it may be hard to find.

About halfway in between the Depot Museum and the Ottawa trailhead is 7th Street. Turn East on this street crossing Main Street and continue one for approximately one mile. The road will become gravel and about two blocks after this point you will pass South Mason Street. You will see a trail crossing here. South is developed, North not so much.

As for the FHNT itself, it is a nice change from the PST. Since if follows the course of the Marais de Cygnes, it is flatter and much more shaded. It can be a welcome relief on a hot day from the openness of the PST. However, make sure that you are well packed with water on your way out of town. Rantoul is the only stop between here and Osawatamie. It has vending machines on North McGuinnes Ave around the corner from the Post Office. The Cafe seems to have gone the way of the dodo.

See you one the trail, well, one of them,

Timon

Timon of Athens commented on Best Connection to the Flint Hills Nature Trail

2010-08-16 12:59:29 MST

First of all, welcome to the site and the forums.

I think that both trails suffer from their newness. People don't know about them and the locals haven't seen and benefits to themselves from the trail yet. This leads to activities that can damage the trails, like the car, or just outright sabotage like the treelimbs or the picnic table I saw last week in Welda that had been set on fire.

I think that the bet thing we can do is USE the trail and be visible doing it. Stop at the local businesses and spend a little money for a soda or burger or ice cream or Gatorade. Trust me, they remember the idiot bike who came in from the trail on a 100 degree day and spent a little money. I have had a business owner defend me and the trail from another local disparaging the trail.

I think that this is actually a whole topic unto itself. I will start a thread when I get the time.

Sam

M P Oliver commented on Best Connection to the Flint Hills Nature Trail

2010-08-15 16:47:51 MST

Wow I was impreesed to find this site - and the FHNT after a few trips to Ottawa. Somewhat rustic compared to the KATY. Also, found where someone had cleaned out the back of their pickup (?) on the trail - trash, broken household items and other things in a spot between Ottawa and Rantoul. Also, a pickup truck with a flat bottom boat was traveling down the trail going west, as well. Probably on the way back from early morning fishing on the river; the temp was probably 99 degrees at that time. They were polite enough and did stop for us to pass and even said, "howdy." And even further down at the Pressonville road area someone had placed a nice big bunch of freshly cut tree limbs 3 to 4 inches in diameter neatly across the trail. On a more positive note - it was something and somewhere different, after riding most of the summer on the KATY and occasionally the Prairie Spirit. It was evident that someone had been out, cut and removed fallen trees just west of Rantoul which is awesome. We will ride again. Recommend lots of frozen water in these hot temps and hybrid or mountain bike. Cannot wait for it to connect through on to Vassar and on pass Lyndon.

Timon of Athens started a new topic called Upcoming Ride

2010-08-10 11:12:40 MST

Think I will be hitting the trail this Friday morning. I need to hit Garnett to take some pictures for the site. Weather should be beastly so I might go Princeton to Garnett instead of the usual Ottawa to Garnett.

Anyone up for it?

Any thoughts?

randyR commented on Upcoming Ride

2010-08-10 13:24:48 MST

I think I could do that. Any chance of making it a ride from Garnett south? I've never been on that part of the trail...

But I'm fine with it either way. Pick a time and place. I'll be coming from Olathe.

Timon of Athens commented on Upcoming Ride

2010-08-10 13:25:30 MST

I can do that. How about meeting at the trailhead about 9:00? I can get the pictures beforehand and we can take off.

randyR commented on Upcoming Ride

2010-08-11 13:26:47 MST

9am Friday at the Garnett trailhead -- I'll be there!

Timon of Athens commented on Upcoming Ride

2010-08-11 13:27:42 MST

As will I.

We can continue this conversation as needed privately if you use the contact page.

Timon of Athens started a new topic called Trail Ride 7/29/2010 - Welda to Iola

2010-07-30 18:15:36 MST

I needed some pictures from the southern part of the trail so I decided I would go from Welda to Iola and back. I arrived at Welda at 9am and got the bike off the back of the car, loaded up my water bottles and was ready to go. It was eighty-two degrees and about a 10mph wind out of the south.

This gave me a chance to check out the detour between Welda and Colony.

It's not too bad, but it is long. It's not break-your-spirit hilly like the detour between Scipio and Garnett was but it is not railroad grade either. I put in my five miles on the country gravel roads and saw one car the entire time. They waved.The surface was not trail-sized gravel so expect some bumps as you lope along. When you connect up with the trail you can look back down the closed area and see the tunnel for the future has already been put in and covered. It looks like for all general purpose, the trail should be open. Grumbling, I turned south, determined that I would take the much shorter Old Colony Road alternate on the way back.

First of all, the surface between Welda and Iola is in much better shape than the rest of the trail. Much flatter, harder and smoother. I felt like I put in pretty good time on the stretch to Colony. And the trail scenery was much improved. The rains have made this stretch positively verdant. My last memories of this stretch consisted of very dry, brown and over 100 degrees last summer and very dry, brown and under 45 degrees last fall. It was much different this time.

I arrived at Colony soon enough and sat at my favorite picnic table for a good while. I love the vista at the Colony trailhead. It was warm, but I had the perfect breeze to cool me off. After about 10 minutes I stopped at the ATM at the bank and went into Colony Foods for a Gatoraid. Had a good 20 minute conversation about how the plans to tear down the attached building might endanger the business. Needless to say, by the time I left at 10:40 I was sufficiently cooled down for the next leg to Iola.

After passing under the Highway I was welcomed by much shade all the way to Iola. I did notice small clouds starting to form on the horizon however. Lollygagging seemed ill-advised from this point on. As I hit the asphalt in Iola the first thing I saw was a large (4'!) snake sunning herself in the middle of the trail. I did not stop to inspect and she did not move as I went past. About 100 yards away I came upon a herd of young rabbits. The seemed content to stand by the trail and watch the idiot go past. This was a much more pleasant compared to the carrion possum half way back to Carlyle.

I zipped around Iola taking pictures, bought a sandwich and discovered that Sunmart was gone. You may have noticed that it has disappeared from the website, I will seek out a new close grocery stop in the near future. Since I was pushing noon, it was time to head back.

Well, it is all uphill to Colony, and in the heat you start to feel it. My indicator was hovering around 100 but the clouds were starting to get organized and gave me some shade now and again. I took my limited comfort from that, knowing that organized clouds were not exactly my friends at this point. A sudden thunderstorm halfway between Colony and Welda was my worst nightmare at this point as there would have been NO cover and a dirt road detour for the last segment. Needless to say, rest stops were going to be few and brief.

As I approached the detour I decided to bite the bullet and take Old Colony Road. There was a bit of traffic but the speed limit was 35 and everybody seemed reasonable. I was not longer afraid of getting caught in the rain as I could see Welda in front of my and the cloud hadn't made themselves ominous yet. The road was bumpy and full of potholes, but as the official traffic detour (as opposed to the official bike detour) it had been worn very firm and smooth surfaced. By that I mean you rode smoothly into and out of the potholes.

Got back to the car at 2:00.

Good day, good ride.

Timon

Timon of Athens started a new topic called Facelift Complete!

2010-07-27 17:48:41 MST

Most of you have already noticed that the site has been cleaned up a little. Most of the cleaning has been under the rugs as it were.

I am starting to add campground information as I am gathering it and should finally have acceptable pictures for most of Iola this weekend. Thanks all who have helped with my questions and sending me information for inclusion.

Timon

randyR started a new topic called Ottawa Camping Options?

2010-07-25 13:03:41 MST

Is there any place to camp in or near Ottawa? Primitive (just a tent site) is all I'm looking for.

I was thinking perhaps Forest Park had some campsites, or maybe the park next to the trailhead, but I checked the city web site, and didn't find any info...

Timon of Athens commented on Ottawa Camping Options?

2010-07-25 13:04:26 MST

The nearest camping I have seen is at Pomona State Park, about 10 miles away. I will check into this more tomorrow.

Timon of Athens commented on Ottawa Camping Options?

2010-07-27 13:06:26 MST

It's looking like your best option may be Homewood Rv Park and Campground.

http://www.homewoodrvpark.com/

Just turn off the trail 2 miles before Ottawa and go down Jackson Road.

I am still looking for other options. Hope you have a good trip.

Sam

Timon of Athens commented on Ottawa Camping Options?

2010-07-27 13:08:15 MST

You might also check out

Shady Hollow Mobile Home and RV Park
1701 South Princeton Rd.

(785)242-2371

I am finding a listing but no other information.

If it exists and seems reasonable, it is right off the trail in Ottawa.

Let me know if these are good, I will include them for future riders.

Timon of Athens started a new topic called Call for Camping Information

2010-08-27 17:54:48 MST

Since I live close to the area, I often drive to the trail and bike. That means that I don't spend much time looking for lodging. I now realize that I have overlooked camping along the trail. Here's the call, let me know about camping opportunities so I can add listings to the site. Those of of you following the forums can see that people are already looking for that info.

Help me and your fellow bikers out,

Timon

randyR commented on Call for Camping Information

2010-08-27 17:55:48 MST

I understand there's camp sites available at both parks in Garnett (not sure of cost), and there's an RV park in Iola with tent camping available. Other than that, I don't know.

The KDWP does say that no camping is allowed on the trail corridor itself...

BTW, the Kansas City Bicycling Meetup Group is planning a weekend tour on the Prairie Spirit Trail in late August, riding from Ottawa to Iola, camping overnight, and riding back the next day:

http://www.meetup.com/bike-353/calendar/14169164/

Timon of Athens started a new topic called Ottawa Trailhead Water

2010-07-23 17:45:39 MST

Sorry if it seems I harp on this topic, but you might have noticed that it is hot out.

Has anyone else gotten the water fountain at the Ottawa trailhead to work? I have tried several times over the last couple of weeks and nothing. No water, no sound of air moving through the pipe, nada. Just seeing if it's my incompetence.

Timon

Timon of Athens commented on Free Someday?

2010-07-22 12:52:41 MST

Even though it has officially become a state park now, I think they will keep the fee. It's low enough that I don't think many will mind paying it. It's worth it for the restrooms and water fountains at the trailheads. Also, it is currently your only option for distance. The FHNT is only about 19 miles currently.

Also, don't underestimate the effects of being put on the state maps and additional signage. I lived in Lawrence for many years before I heard about the trail, and that was through my own research. I then road it several times before I came across anything about the FHNT, and it crosses the PST.

Anyway, I just buy my yearly pass and never worry about it.

jlovitt started a new topic called Free Someday?

2010-07-21 12:45:08 MST

With the Flint Hills Trail and others coming along that are going to be free, will the Prairie Spirit Trail ever be free to ride on? If not, I think it's going to cut down on its use.

Timon of Athens started a new topic called Public Meeting in Ottawa

2010-07-20 18:21:59 MST

There is a public meeting in Ottawa this Saturday the 24th on trails and walkability at the Ottawa City Hall. It lasts from 10am to noon and is sponsored by the Ottawa Downtown Association. Let them know your thoughts.

Timon

Timon of Athens started a new topic called Colony Foods

2010-07-19 14:23:58 MST

I have stopped in here several times for hydration and a quick bite. Nice, small town store with limited snacks and drinks. Usually stock Gatoraid (not much, don't expect any if a small group came through town before you), soda, candy and a personal favorite, peanut butter cheese crackers.

Being just a block off the trails is nice also. On a hot day heading north, I recommend stopping here and getting some supplies and then continue on to the trailhead. The covered picnic table makes a nice place to rest and have a small meal. Fill up your water, it is long and uncovered to Welda.

Timon

mtanders started a new topic called First time or experienced biker?

2010-07-17 18:24:57 MST

Hey everyone,

I love the website and love to hear other people's thoughts about the trail. I thought I would share some of my experiences too. I've biked the trail a couple times now and have to say that sections between Princeton-Richmond-Garnett are the best. These sections have a scattering of everything you'll see on the trail. I especially enjoy the visuals coming into Richmond from the north. If someone on this website or forum is looking for a section to bike for their first time, I highly recommend these. If you're a novice then I recommend the trail between Colony-Carlyle-Iola. Especially if you're traveling south, the elevation change is a bit noticeable (but that does mean you'll have to go uphill on the way back). The transition to pavement also makes that particular ride a lot easier.

If you're looking for a good time to go, I'd suggest early morning. Just have someone go in front of you so they can break up the spider webs.:)

I would love to know other people's thoughts as well. Sometimes I only have time to hit three towns and then turn back around. What do other people recommend? I'd be curious to know which part of the trail individuals find the most challenging.

Thanks for the website.

Mike

Timon of Athens commented on First time or experienced biker?

2010-07-18 18:26:27 MST

Hi Mike,

I have to say, the Ottawa to Garnett and back is my most travelled. This is mainly because it is closest to where I live. For the challenge, I would go Garnett to Iola and back. (Can you tell I like 50 mile rides?) The G/I/G route would seem to have less terrain, but I think the ride from Iola to Colony is probably the most challenging. Yes, it's a railroad grade, but 10 miles of it will wear you down. Especially after you pass under the highway and climb toward Colony. On a hot day that can feel brutal.

As for the spider webs, I know exactly what you mean. My stops are often more about peeling the webs off myself and my bike than about getting water. What are these things hoping to catch anyway?

See you on the trail,

Timon

Timon of Athens started a new topic called Trail Ride 7/9/2010 - Ottawa to Garnett

2010-07-11 18:31:16 MST

I had time last Friday so I went for another ride on the trail. Decided that I would go from Ottawa to Garnett and back again.

Arrived at Ottawa at about 8:45 and got the bike off the car and loaded so I set off at about 9. The weather was gorgeous. I soon arrived at Princeton and saw my first people on trail that day. Jim, I had met two weeks before and this time had a group of three friends with him. We chatted for a few minutes and I am now "the guy with the website I told you about." My wife is so proud. I also observed a young couple paying their fee at the pay station and heading off toward Ottawa.

I soon took off for Richmond. I came across the only big obstacle for the day, a downed tree across the trail about one mile from Richmond. . There was just enough room on the west side of the trail to get around it. It shouldn't take too long to clear, does anyone know if it is still there? Anyway, arrived at Richmond to see what seemed to be some sort of fair or animal judging. There where tents in the park and a fair amount of mooing. Paused long enough to refill my water bottles at the trailhead, had to use the sink in the restroom as the pressure at the drinking fountain was low.

Continued on to Garnett. There is a hill right before Scipio road that I always enjoy. The trail circles around it and you look up some nice prairie grass to blue sky. With the right clouds in the sky it is really quite stunning. I soon hit the newly opened section of the trail. I have worried that the contractor didn't compact this new section of the trail correctly. It has always felt a little soft and draggy to my and it now looks like this years heavy rains are doing a fair amount of damage. There are several washed out furrows between Scipio Road and Garnett. These are not enough to do serious damage, but you will get shaken up if you don't pay attention. I crested the hill and exited the woods beside Lake Garnett right at 11. I proceeded to Dottie's Cafe and had a nice lunch buffet while being called "hun" more times than I remember in the last ten years. So I had a nice respite.

I stopped by the depot before I headed out to once again fill up the water bottles as the temperature was climbing in to the mid 80s. One thing about the trail, running north/south means that between 11 and 2 you will have very little shade. It makes a big difference. I was feeling the heat as I approached Richmond and found a truck furrow off the trail rich before it goes under the highway. I took it up to the highway and went the 1/2 mile down to R&B's to buy a nice big Gatoraid. I hate the taste of the stuff but it sure can make me feel better in situations like this. I sipped on that bottle all the way to Princeton, glad that it was all downhill the rest of the way. It felt like I was practically coasting the last mile into Ottawa. I pulled up to my car at a quarter to 2.

Nice day, beautiful and relaxing.

See you out there,

Timon

Timon of Athens started a new topic called R and B's

2010-08-27 14:55:20 MST

I haven't eaten here yet but plan to in the near future. It is always a pleasant stop to pick up a bit of ice cream or a soft drink to get you to the next stop. A welcome respite after the climb from Ottawa or Pottawatomie Creek.

Timon of Athens commented on R and B's

2010-08-27 17:32:52 MST

I should also mention, the owner is always one of the friendliest people I meet on the day I go in. Stopped in today for a Gatoraid and an ice cream bar. I was made to feel welcome and respected despite being dripping with sweat on a hot day. Well done customer service merits a mention.

Timon

Timon of Athens started a new topic called Update 7/6/10

2010-06-10 17:59:50 MST

Several small changes to the site before an upcoming major update. Look for BPS 2.0 coming soon.

1) Added a notice on the main page and on the Welda and Colony town pages for the detour around the construction.
2) Edited main page to reflect that the Flint Hills Nature trail now reaches Ottawa.

More to come,

Timon

jlovitt commented on Update 7/6/10

2010-06-10 18:01:31 MST

That's pretty cool. I did not know about the Flint Hills Nature Trail, much less any of the other branches that are planned. Sounds like a really good network is going to be put in place.

Timon of Athens started a new topic called La Hacienda

2009-08-17 14:35:11 MST

I have eaten here twice and both times left very full and happy. Makes sure that you stray from the conventional "combo" parts of the menu and try the house specialties. Excellent, cheap and 50 feet from the trail.

Timon of Athens commented on La Hacienda

2010-03-19 14:36:24 MST

Went by the place yesterday and it looks like it is now a thing of the past. I will remove the page.