R3 IMBA Epic Mountain Bike Ride

 

R3 is a combination of trails and dirt roads suggested by Purple Lizard and adopted by IMBA as an EPIC Ride. The R3 is a series of loops that represent a diverse mix of roads & trails within Rothrock SF that will challenge any mountain biker. The loop aspect allows riders to try it in smaller sections. The times are approximate based on the fitness level of a 25 year old expert rider; personal times vary greatly. The R3 ride is not specifically marked on the ground; you may get lost even with the map andgood route finding skills. There are many trails throughout the forest which will lead you miles off the route shown. Yup, you just may get hopelessly lost. Welcome to the world of mountain biking!

Why R3? RothRockRide - three R's = R3

 

  • Location: Rothrock State Forest, 6 miles south of State College, PA and Penn State. Follow route 322 to Tussey Mountain Ski Area; state forest land begins past ski area.

  • Length: 30 miles

  • Time: Average 5 hours - plan on longer.

  • Elevation gain: 5100 feet

  • Highest point: 2400 ft.

  • Lowest point: 990 ft

  • Terrain: Mix of dirt roads & technical singletrack.

  • Season: March - November. Avoid deer season.

  • Rescue Index: Fair to poor. Dirt roads are well traveled but singletrack accesses remote terrain with dangerous conditions. Bear Meadows Road is the primary access road.

  • Resources: Get the Purple Lizard Trail Map, available locally or at www.purplelizard.com