Issue link: http://trailridermagazine.uberflip.com/i/1542196
January 2026 17 "routes," all self-guided, using GPX files provided to registered riders via email prior to the event. Most everyone had some sort of GPS unit that they could easily download the routes to follow. Bobby pro- vided guidance to anyone who needed some extra help uploading and understanding the files. Self-directed is the keyword. You and your buddies, or the new friends you have just met, can leave and come back whenever you want, and ride whatever routes you want in any order or direc on. They all led back to the park. The routes ranged from 50 miles to over 150 miles, twis ng and turning in and out of the beau ful piney woods of eastern Texas. Some of the rock- lined dirt roads harken back to the stagecoach and wagon trail days with high bluffs cut on each side. Winding through the peaceful countryside, we rode sand, gravel, and dirt roads, asphalt driveway lanes, and some black top to make this a true Dual Sport/ Adventure ride. We got to visit the towns of Joa- quin, Avinger, Goat Island, and Coffeeville. We even ventured into Louisiana to the town of Vivian. My favorite stop was at the Big Pines Lodge in Karnack, TX. You can enjoy some local fare such as ca ish, alligator, and fried green tomatoes out on the porch overlooking the Big Cypress Bayou. Fantas c service and sweet tea! Friday evening's Meet and Greet fed over 200 people with home-made wood-fired pizza made by trans- planted Italian, Mirko Lucchi, who also works with Mark Berg at Central Powersport Distribu on (CPD) in Marshall, TX. Mirko made over 100 delicious pizzas to feed the masses with nary a piece le over. Saturday and Sunday, we con nued to explore the countryside, meet new friends, chill by the bayou, and take a spin on the Diamond Na onal Motocross Track and Cross-Country course. This is a truly unique and wonderful event. A perfect way to wind down from the season's racing, riding, or whatever you do that makes you need a lazy week- end of riding, laughing, telling lies, and sharing old and new stories with like-minded people. You know, motorcycle riders. Thank you to the Diamond Don Empire. Route and event coordinator, Bobby Pickard, and his crew of Gary Anderson, Mark Waldron, and Jim Chastain. And not to be forgo en, Skip Kennedy, Wes Willis, and Mike Haynes. They were there early and stayed late to make sure everything was just right. Put this one on your calendar for early November 12- 15, 2026. Francine Rainey aka "DePrez" Francine Rainey aka "DePrez"