trail conditions-thorns??

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dougt from Onawa, Ia on 8/28/2018 11:30:20 AM:

I'm planning to ride from Norfolk to Valentine and back the week of Sept 17. Some earlier posts mentioned bad thorns between Ainsworth and Johnston. Is that still the case? Any other comments on trail conditions or lodging greatly appreciated.
I'm planning on staying in O'Neill, the Bunkhouse in Long Pine($35!!!) and Valentine on the trip both ways. Any recommendations on lodging in O'Neill and Valentine?

How secure is parking in Norfolk for 5-6 days?

HOPEFULLY someone will respond to this post!

Jeni on 8/30/2018 9:28:52 AM:

re the thorns: I was advised that I'd be okay if I just stuck to the middle of the path in the areas where it was so bad.

The parking in Norfolk sounds great. A patrolled lot, pictures of your car and your expected return date are sent to local law enforcement.

Nothing on the lodging, but best of luck to you.

dougt from Onawa, Ia on 9/2/2018 9:51:58 AM:

Thanks for your response!! Other than you, posting a question on this site is like shouting into an empty canyon! Do you know anything about the detour off the trail west of Neligh and how far one has to go on the highway before being able to get back to the trail?

Cynthya from Salina, Ks on 9/2/2018 1:28:05 PM:

My experience of trail is a year back. We picked up plenty of thorns, but no flats. Just a front tire we ended up airing up everyday. About two miles out of Clearwater going east you get detoured to highway. No clear mark back to trail. We were told first turn to your right. Excluding turns into private property. Maybe three miles? They need to put up a sign for bikers to know the turn.

dougt from Onawa, Ia on 9/3/2018 10:42:09 AM:

Thanks for your info Cynthia!

Jon Stuthman from norfolk on 3/4/2019 5:20:38 PM:

Parking at Ta-Ha-Zouka Park in Norfolk is free and patrolled by local law enforcement, haven't had any issues in the last 4 years. Give me a call at North Fork Outfitting 402-316-0157 if you need anything else.

opedaler from Northeast Nebraska on 3/24/2019 4:37:54 PM:

We have always used bikes with liners and seldom had any problems. The past couple of years we have used hard-case 28's (no liners) and have had zero problems. Having said that, many of my friends have complained about flats (they used no liners, and had older tires) so carry tubes, or repair kits just to be safe. I've carried them for years and maybe used them once, or maybe twice. I threaten to take them out so I have more room for more candy bars but sure as I do.......

opedaler from Northeast Nebraksa on 4/21/2019 3:36:52 AM:

About 28"s.....My wife told me after seeing my response that she agrees with Alex. Although we do, she feels MUCH more comfortable on 32's on up. 90% of the time she feels fine, but to be comfortable ALL the time, she would recommend a bigger tire. Mountain bikes aren't usually necessary, but you will see a plethora of them on the trail. After the repairs this year, I would agree, bigger is better.

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