Overview
The Thumper Loop is a great loop for most all skill levels. Definitely a great workout, technical and challenging yet not so much that it would scare someone. Usually ridden clockwise but for a challenging climb go counter clockwise. The first climb is an anerobic ass kicker then the descent down raptor hill can bee done at warp speed as long as you keep the pedals moving.
Trail Description
The Thumper Loop is comprised of three trails: Raptor, Thumper, and Lime Kiln trails. This description is done riding the loop clockwise. From the trail head start a easy rolling climb that quickly steepens, heading up the "evil hill" this is the steepest climb on the entire trail. After this, it's basically a 2 ½ mile climb to the top which is in intervals as the trail flattens out briefly then climbs and flattens a number of times. You will come to the junction of Raptor Hill and Thumper. Take a right. At first Thumper is an old Jeep Rd. turning to a fun flowing single track heading mainly downhill. The trail feeds you some great techy sections which were marked by small molded bunnies which many seem to have disappeared. This section is great keep your speed up. Then you'll come to a sandy jeep rd. Go right. This is Lime Kiln. Not as tight and flowing as Thumper but towards the end some great techy descents(climbing this is a challenge). Go left at the first fork with the series of wooden barriers (installed by the Forest Service). At speed with decent suspension travel lime kiln can induce much adrenaline or keep it slow pick the right line and come back down the hill. There are many technical natural features and forest service built water bars that create a great descent. Next junction at the bottom go right putting you on a flat rolling trail that bypasses the ranger residence ending with a small drop as you reach the road. Continue heading down the road and you will see Fly Catcher Rd. again make the right back to your car.Getting There
From the entrance of the park continue heading in and take a left on Fly Catcher Rd. and follow this to the first lot on the right where the trailhead is on the right. You can also park at the end of the road where the Tavasci Marsh Trail is.When to Bike
SpringSummer- Early start and finish before the heat.
Fall
Winter- Mid day is great, perfect exertion temps
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