River Valley Cycling

Supporting Cycling In and Around Fredericton

Trailbuilding update – Penniac

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Hey Riders,

We wanted to give you an update on all of the trail building in Penniac this fall. RVC volunteers made some incredible progress towards two new trails that will be a big addition to the network out there. The first is going to be a 1,400 m long (mix of machine & hand-built) climb-descend trail and the other is a 860 m long machine-built flow trail that is designed for riding down only.

Both trails will appeal to riders of all ages and skill levels.

This project wouldn’t be where it is today without such a huge lift from our local riders. Thanks to the ‘Freddy Tacos Who Shred‘ club for their trail days this fall. Thanks to Yves, Chris, Bev, and the entire machine crew who spent hundreds of hours on the job. Thanks to all the families who showed up to dig on our RVC trail day. Thanks to Remsoft for a generous donation towards the costs associated with the build. Most of all thanks to the landowners for having the vision to do this with RVC!

Now this is important – the trails are not open yet!

The build still isn’t complete – dirt is still being shaped and signage still needs to go up. Most importantly – early winter and early spring freeze-thaw cycles are the enemy of new trails and when the soil is soft there’s huge potential for damage. Please do not go out exploring with the aim of ‘just one lap’. We’ve seen how that’s happened with new builds at MVP and Rockwood in Saint John and it often sets the trail builders back by weeks if the damage is even repairable at all.


Let’s all avoid this outcome ok?

When the time is right in the spring of 2021 RVC will have a grand opening. Looking forward to it!

Turning Over New Ground

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Hey Riders,
RVC’s major project for 2020 is now underway and we’re turning over new ground in Penniac. This is exciting. Let’s have a look at what’s going on.

For several years now RVC has been developing a positive relationship with several local landowners in Penniac. In fact, some of these landowners are avid supporters of the mountain biking community and riders themselves. The club has recently come to several agreements that will see several new, well built trails that are knit into larger plans for sustainable forestry in the area.

The project includes a gradual climbing trail from the valley to the top of Stone Bridges as well as a new full-length downhill trail that will be machine-built with progressive features that are accessible for riders of all skill levels. This will diversify the trail styles available in Penniac, and open up new possibilities for riding loops.

Builds like this require a significant investment and that’s why RVC is thrilled to report that this project is being supported by 2020 RVC Trail Sponsor – Remsoft. Although they are a company with a global reach, Remsoft have been supporters of local trails for several years now beginning with the build of ‘La Woodstock’ at MVP. The company has provided generous financial assistance to this build as well – thank you Remsoft!

Earlier this month, the machine was delivered to the site and it made the long walk up to the top of the ridge, where it has been humming right along ever since. The machine doesn’t do much on its own though. A dedicated trail build team has been on site and has already invested more than 100 hours of sweat equity on the project. A huge shout-out to:

  • Marie-Eve F.
  • Yves B. 
  • Max G. 
  • Mike B.
  • Alex M.
  • Jase F.
  • Justin L.

  • Mike B.
  • Adam B.
  • Stephanie B. 
  • Matthew G 
  • Chris F.
  • Bev B.

Now… what can you do to make this huge project successful?

  1. Volunteer. The work is far from done. We need volunteers willing to come out and clear slash and brush, shape features behind the machine, and work with hand tools on the climb trail. Contact us through email or Facebook if you’re willing to help and we’ll connect you with work!
  2. Join RVC. That’s right. If you like what you’re reading the club can use your support. Your membership contributes to trail work directly and the behind-the-scenes arrangements with landowners that make it possible.
  3. Respect the worksite. For now, these trails are under construction and closed. If you see the trail build crew testing things out that doesn’t mean they’re open to ride yet. Patience. When they are ready to open RVC will make a splash and let you know… trust us!

Proud Members of: Velo New Brunswick

Canadian Cycling Association

International Mountain Biking Association