Trail Overview
Riders should note that the southern portion of Shoestring Lake Trail from the intersection with 1386 south to the Shoestring 4x4 trail does not appear to be maintained anymore, as it goes through a large burn area where downfall has nearly obstructed the whole trail. It does not appear to have been cut in years, compared to the rest of the trail system, which appears to have been logged by early summer. The 2.6 miles of Shoestring Lake Trail from FS 3100 Road to 1386 is maintained, free of logs, and a fun ride with a few intermediate challenges. The beginning of the trail from the north end is fast and flowy through the forest, going through several meadows. It becomes a bit steeper and rockier as it loops around to connect to Hereford Meadows and then Keenan Meadow. The trail has several steep rocky climbs with embedded rocks and roots, loose dirt and rocks, and tight turns to navigate around some of the log cuts. Expect a few moderate switchbacks that are steep. There are a few small wooden bridges and narrow sections of singletrack through grassy open meadows.
Difficulty
The northeastern half of the trail is more gradual and flowy, while the southwestern half of the trail has some steeper sections, tighter turns, and more rock. Overall, it’s mostly easy, but with a few solid intermediate sections that are good practice for newer riders. The obstacles aren’t super high consequence or exposed.
