still cold, but not as windy

As the last full day on Buller dawned there were noticeable changes. The rain had stopped, the wind had dropped and there was a lot of bird-life evident. This set the scene for more cross country exploration of the local trails. After yet another magnificent breakfast spread two groups gathered with plans for either an easier ride or a more technical ride. We headed out along familiar trails from two days previous, headed for Corn Hill with the intention of heading for Howqua Gap. After some spirited climbing up a muddy, rocky single track climb we found ourselves at the top of the hill that hosts the Misty Twist loop. From here Norm led an excited charge in anticipation of a recently built trail that he was aware of but yet to find. We reverse-rode a technical switch-back climb (making it a technical descent) and assembled at the crest of steep vehicle track descent. About 2/3rds of the way down the target trail was found. What an amazing, flowing descent from here! Loads of rises dropped into beautifully bermed swithbacks, over and over again. Plenty of water and mud still lay in wait but it had no impact on the condition of the trail or the flow. This dropped us to the base of the next technical climb back up to Corn Hill and ultimately to the head of Misty Twist. More fun ensued as we headed into a self-seeded attack on this great loop. 25 minutes later I was back at the top of the loop to see the other group of riders had also headed toward the same neck of the woods. This also became the turn-around point for most, but Katie was revved for one more Misty Twist lap. So Ben, myself, Katie and Norm set off for another! Within 3 or 4 minutes we were being blessed by snowfall, and it looked magnificent! Norm pulled us up for a one-off photo opportunity of this spectacle through the surrounding snow gums. He also grabbed some video as he continued on down the trail in a hope to capture the full effect. We still had some great riding to take us back for lunch.
Have I mentioned the food yet?? The weekend was fully catered and co-ordinated by Jess and Norm Douglas through their excellent mtbskills service. We ate like royalty, were treated to magnificent trails and entertained all weekend with everything from quizzes, to tales of bravado, and informative maintenance presentations. What a great way to spend a long weekend. Including the meals and indoor activities the team of Jess, Norm, Adam and Liz put together well managed ride sessions that catered for all levels of rider skill. If you are ever looking for a chance to enhance your skills and spend time with like-minded mtb'ers I highly recommend getting involved with any of the mtbskills clinic or weekends.