Tinkley Hollow Loop - 4.4 mi.

From your parking spot at the side of Tinley Hollow Rd., just past it's intersection with Greenbush Hill Rd. you will find a 4x4/Jeep/ATV trail heading east, left as you come from Greenbush Hill. The road/trail is not passable by automobiles, but it is suitable for 4WD vehicles, trucks and SUVs. Begin the loop heading down the road/trail.

Almost immediately you come to a snotty, but short climb. Don't lose your morale here, because things get better soon after you top off. There's not much to describe. After topping off you head DOWN for the next 2 miles. The descent is fast, or as fast as you want to ride it. For expert riders, it's eye-watering fast. Intermediates can choose to take it easy and enjoy themselves. The double-track trail is an access road for hunters and outdoorsmen, so it's always passable and only moderately technical.

The most technical challenges are a couple of places where water crossed the trail. However, they are only technical if taken at speed. Slow down, and you're okay. The other place of interest is where the trail traverses beneath a large beaver dam. You WILL get wet, as of this writing, as the water running through the dam goes right across the road 1-2" deep. It is easily passable, and rideable, though.

After the beaver dam the trail continues down, still fast, but soon opens up into a regular dirt road. Watch out here, because you will need to make a hard right on to Tinkley Hollow, which is NOT marked. Turn right on Tinkley Hollow Rd., which is nothing more than a narrow dirt road.

The good news is that at the turn the loop is half done. The bad news is that there's a 550 ft. climb staring you in the face. It starts out moderate enough, taking you gently upwards through a beautiful gorge carved by Stony Creek. There are a few hunter's cabins along the way, and the canopy can be a great respite on a warm, summer's day. About the time you tell yourself, "this ain't too bad," things start to change. The hill points upward, and you're in the granny gear. The final 100' is very steep. Beginners will struggle and find themselves hike-a-biking the final, steep ramp. Things start to moderate when you emerge from the woods and pass a year-'round home. The dirt road levels for a spell, giving you a chance to catch your breath, before heading upwards, moderately, to your car.

20-30 minute laps are common, so plan on doing 2 or 3 loops for an afternoon ride. Every time down the descent it gets more fun.

The final climb keeps this from being recommended for beginners, though they may be handle the descent and first half of the climb. The descent is as technical as you choose to make it. At slower speeds it rides moderately technical, suitable for novices, perfect for intermediates. As with most descents, the faster you go, the harder it gets. Expert riders will find long sections where they can lay off the brakes and let it run. Caution, as always, is advised, as you may come upon sportsman, vehicle, or ATV.