The days are getting longer. Today I will have 13 more minutes to frolic in the sunlight then I did two weeks ago. Maybe I am just a little anxious for spring. Anyway, this is the time to do some ATV maintenance and planning for trails to ride this year.
Finding new trails and having a good ride experience is a challenge. As you begin planning the year, consider attending an ATV jamboree.
Reasons for attending a jamboree are numerous. These festivals feature guides who know the trails and are familiar with the history of the area. They also help you choose trails that fit your skill level. Combine that with the chance to meet new friends who share your interest in riding and you have a recipe for a great adventure. Attendance can be large at these events but the individual ride numbers are limited and well organized.
Information on each event is available on the Internet. The following is a list planned for 2010 in order of their occurrence:
The Tri-State ATV Jamboree, March 10-13: This four-day event hosted by Hurricane includes three days of guided rides showcasing historic and scenic trails in Washington and Kane Counties. The $100 fee includes three hot breakfasts, an ice cream social, a Dutch-oven dinner with lots of prizes, and a jamboree T-shirt. The deadline for registration is Feb. 22 and is limited to 300 riders. This event fills up quickly because it is the first opportunity in the year to ride in decent weather so register as soon as possible. If you are associated with a club like the Northern Utah ATV Trail Riders with at least 10 members in attendance, $30 will be given back to you in "Jamboree Bucks" redeemable at the vendor booths during the event. This is a chance to get a good deal on some accessories for your machine.
The San Rafael Swell Poker Run, March 26-27: The Buckhorn Rim trail is the site of this event. Riders pay $10 for the ride and one poker hand. Additional hands are available at $5 apiece. Camping will be at a corral at the trail head 26 miles east of Castle Dale. Call Mark Williams at (435) 749-1600 for directions.
The National ATV Jamboree, June 21-26: The oldest jamboree in the nation will be held in Fillmore. The $130 fee includes hot breakfasts every day, four dinners, maps and a jamboree T-shirt. Trails on the Paiute ATV Trail system are featured as well as some desert destinations. Registration is limited to 500 riders and discounts are available to couples and groups. This is a good one because by the last week of June, the snow is off the high mountain trails.
The Paiute UTV Jamboree, Aug. 12-14: Based on last year's success, the second annual festival focused on UTVs is staged in Marysvale. Beautiful mountain trails have been chosen that accommodate side-by-side machines. A unique feature of this event is that no registration fees are charged. You can choose to order a shirt and meals, or not.
The Manti Mountain ATV Tour, Aug. 13-14: This event includes a T-shirt, dinner, two lunches, and two days of riding on the Arapeen trails above Manti for $50.
The Arapeen ATV Jamboree, Sept. 6-10: Ferron is the site of this event featuring trails in the San Rafael Swell and on the east side of the Arapeen Trail system. The $120 fee includes continental breakfasts each day, two dinners and a T-shirt. Two additional dinners are available at $10 each.
The San Juan ATV Safari, Sept. 16-18: Blanding will host this festival featuring trails in the Blue Mountains and surrounding canyons. Fees are $100 per rider with special rates for groups.
The Rocky Mountain ATV Jamboree, Sept. 20-24: The largest ATV festival is sponsored by Richfield. Registration is $150 per rider and is limited to 650 participants. Fees include daily continental breakfasts, two dinners and a T-shirt. This jamboree features trails in the Paiute trail system and others in Central Utah.
Take advantage of these remarkable opportunities to experience Utah. When you go, tread lightly and keep the rubber side down.
You may contact Lynn Blamires at quadmanone@gmail.com.
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