Mountain bikers, runners take to the hills in Alva

Among the many things that make cycling and running so popular here, at least from my perspective, is the absence of hills. Some folks probably don't agree that a flat topography is a good thing, because it removes an aspect of challenge from these activities. But as one who spent his childhood climbing hills in Connecticut, I am relieved that inclines and declines are not part of most of my frequent rides and runs.

I admit that my early "hill work" likely did have some lasting health and fitness benefits, but for those using a bike for transportation or recreation versus for hard athletic training, I submit that flat terrain is a positive feature of our area. And as for an edge that hills might give runners, I think training in the heat and humidity is plenty, thank you. Besides, one can always run one of the (too few) bridges pedestrians are allowed to traverse around here.

Now that I've stated my case in favor of flat, I want to encourage anyone who doesn't believe mountain biking exists in Southwest Florida to ride the 12-plus miles of single-track trail in Caloosahatchee Regional Park in Alva.

While the terrain isn't "mountainous," it certainly has topographic diversity, including plenty of berms left from long-ago river dredge spoil materials that create challenging situations. In fact, some sections of the trail are not suitable for beginners or the faint of heart. Take my word for it: These mountain biking trails are for real!

The Florida Mudcutters (www.mudcutters.org), this year's Florida Bicycle Association Outstanding Off-Road Cycling Club, is principally responsible for the outstanding riding opportunities at Caloosahatchee Regional Park. Since it opened in 1999, Mudcutter member-volunteers have taken on the enormous task of designing and creating the trails as well as maintaining, improving and ever adding to them. Some members also provide bike patrol services and are certified by the International Mountain Biking Association.

The Mudcutters' partnership with Lee County Parks and Recreation Department has resulted in first-class, off-road cycling opportunities and is a testament to how citizen-government relationships can pay enormous dividends for many.

But back to the fun stuff. The park has trails for everyone, from first-timers to experienced mountain bikers. As long as you use a bike meant for trail riding, wear your helmet and go out with someone else (preferably someone who's ridden trails at least a time or two), you're bound to have a great time.

Also, the Mudcutters conduct clinics for new riders, including some specific to women and children (see listing of upcoming events below and visit their Web site), and members and other experienced riders are always willing to help get you started if

you missed the clinics.

If mountain biking isn't your thing but you still want to experience all the park has to offer, trail running there is outstanding. The section across North River Road from the bike trail area has about 5 miles of top-notch hiking/ running trails, some of which provide a beautiful view of the Caloosahatchee River and its oxbows. Runners are

also welcome to use the bike

trails, but please be sure to proceed in the same direction cyclists travel (the direction switches back and forth each month and is marked) and be ready to move over to allow them to pass.

And please: On foot or on bike, no headphones! You need to be aware of your surroundings.

The annual River, Roots & Ruts Half- Marathon and 5K Run takes place at the park on Sunday, Jan. 11, 2009 (www.rrrtrail. com). The 5K uses the river side where trails are meant for foot traffic (bikes are not allowed there at any time); the halfmarathon uses those trails as well as the most challenging single-tracks on the bike side of the park (it's a closed course on race day, so the only bikes allowed are those of course marshals).

Cycling, running and hiking opportunities abound in Caloosahatchee Regional Park. Get out there soon and see for yourself.

— Dan Moser is league cycling instructor/ trainer and a former bike/ped coordinator who cycles regularly for transportation, recreation, and fitness. He may be contacted at moserdeleon@juno.com or 334-6417.

Bike/Ped Happenings

>>River Run & Senior Games 10K and 2-Mile Walk: Dec. 6, downtown Fort Myers

>>Senior Games 5K: Dec. 13, Cape Coral Rotary Park

>>Marco Island 5-Mile Hill Run: Dec. 20, Marco Island

>>River, Roots & Ruts Half-Marathon & 5K: Jan.11, Caloosahatchee Regional Park (www. rrrtrail.com)

>>Naples Daily News Half-Marathon: Jan. 18, downtown Naples

For details of these and other running events, check with the Fort Myers Track Club at www. fortmyerstrackclub.com, or with Gulf Coast Runners at www.gcrunner.org.

Cycling:

>>Caloosahatchee Regional Park Kids Bike Clinic: Dec. 30 (www.mudcutters.org/events) >>Pedaling for Pathways: Jan. 25 from Lowdermilk Park, Naples

Visit Caloosa Riders Bicycle Club at www. caloosariders.com, Florida Mudcutters at www. mudcutters.org and Naples Pathways Coalition at www.naplespathways.org for more information on bicycling activities, including weekly rides. The Florida Bicycle Association at www.floridabicycle. org lists statewide happenings.