“the poor little juror (it was Bill, the Lizard) could not make out at all what had become of [his pencil]; so, after hunting all about for it, he was obliged to write with one finger for the rest of the day; and this was of very little use, as it left no mark on the slate. ”
(from Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland)
Description
– Distance: ~ .5 miles
– Min/max elev.: 3332’/3543′
– Elev. gain/loss: 21’/-232′
Click here for routes and maps with Lizard trail.
Lizard is bike-only, downhill-only trail that descends from Caterpillar to Jabberwocky and FS 2060. Featuring some bermed turns and several jump options, it’s a gentle introduction to the Jabberwocky trail that it flows into. Riders can opt out after riding Lizard and continue down either multi-use Caterpillar or FS Rd 2060. Alternatively, riders can ride back up either 2060 or Caterpillar and get Lizard laps.
History
Lizard is one of many new trails introduced in the Ashland Trails Plan of 2015, originally submitted by AWTA. A substantial portion of Lizard is on Dr Epstein’s property and he graciously granted a trail easement. Originally conceived by Nathan Riddle, the Lizard design was further enhanced by Bill Roussel.
The trail was built in 2016. AWTA was able to get Ashland Parks and Rec to help with a large excavator for initial dirt rock moving as well as some tree trimming in the lower section, a group of Northwest Youth Corps got in the mix by tamping and a group of fire-fighting crew contributed by training their fire hoses on the trail to moisten the soil for further shaping. AWTA bought some mini-excavator time from a local trail crafter, Jake Contreras to help work the upper part as well as refine the lower. Various mountain bikers including members of RVMBA shaped the banked turns, doubles and table tops.
Written by Torsten Heycke 04/12/2020