Wow!  It had to be 1990 when I first met the Dirt Rag crew at the Canaan Valley MTB races.  Dirt Rag was a forerunner in the mountain bike scene back then and they continue to be at the front of the pack when it comes to putting on a spectacular event while maintaining their grassroots style.

Dirtfest is definitely an event to attend.  This mtb weekend is put on by Rothrock Outfitters and Dirt Rag at the Allegrippis Trails located at Raystown Lake in Hesston, Pennsylvania. 

The Allegrippis Trail System boasts 32 miles of rip roaring fun.  The trails were built together by the Army Corps of Engineers, friends of Raystown Lake, IMBA and  Raystown Lake Mountain Bike Association.  The trail system was completed in May of 2009 and is a big hit.  This project was a major undertaking by some truly dedicated folk.

The trails consist of super fun whooptie doo's, table tops and tight single track which will surely make your heart spin with joy.  There is something for everyone on this trail system.  While there are no major leg cracking climbs, there is plenty of lung busting going on.  The trails meander, twist and roll in a way that keeps the legs pumping and the heart racing.  The rollers give you a great amount of speed, so your momentum swings you right up the next roller.  There were also short, steeper sections that challenged your legs and forced you to power up.

While there weren't tons of logs to go over, there were plenty of rock gardens and tight, twisty, rooted, fast terrain that challenged one's technical skills.  Once the rain came, the trails slicked up making it even more adventurous and fun.

Whether you are a novice or an expert, Raystown trails are for you.  There are several beginner green trails, blue intermediate trails and black expert trails.  All of the trails are extremely well marked and easy to follow.  Even though the trails are marked by ability, they are all ride-able at any skill level.  It is really up to you.  If you are new to mountain biking, you will be more challenged by the short steep stuff.  The seasoned riders will be technically challenged by the speed that is carried through on some of these trails.  Either way, this is a place worth exploring.  Additionally, Many trails intersect one another and excellent maps are provided. 

The camping for the Dirtfest festival is remote and secluded, offering many vendors from the industry.  Dirt Rag offers a women's skills ride, beer tasting and live music.  A real happening for sure and family friendly.  There is plenty to do for rugrats on pint sized 2 wheel bikes.  For those who wanted more amenities, there is beautiful camping just up the road at 7 Points Camp.  The nice thing is that wherever you camp, you can reach the trailheads with ease.

If your are free, it is a calendar must!  Register early.  Otherwise, gather up a group and head over to Raystown Lake on your own.  It is worth the trip to explore these trails.  Oh, and don't forget about the lake!  There are miles and miles to explore by kayak, fishing boat, pontoon and even houseboats.  Yes, they rent houseboats that sleep up to 12 people. 

I don't know about you, but I am already planning my trip.  Check out Raystown Lake/Allegrippis Trail System for information.