Issue link: http://trailridermagazine.uberflip.com/i/962346
flatlanders until we hit the Connecticut border, the trip was actually a breeze. Three bench racing, dirt bike nuts along with Ozzy's Boneyard on the Pan- dora, we were there in less than 18 hours. We woke the next morning to a trio of well-prepped KTM's. Don't get me wrong, this was no fancy deal 'cause we're the press; these were Highland Parks rental bikes. Not the prettiest but we soon found they were impeccably maintained and as tight as any low-hour bike found. My ride was a '09 400 XC-W; Kilton hopped on a '12 250XC, and Jere- my got a '14 450XC. It had been months since the three of us had actually seen dirt, and although a bit rusty, our goal was to do as much riding as possible before turning the bikes in at 4 p.m. Highland Park trails close at 5 p.m. during winter months; rentals due in at 4 for prep. What's so cool about Highland Park is it has so much to offer for all ability levels. Trails are set up like a ski mountain with the diamond system. From 1-5 there's terrain from the greenest beginner to killer expert-level "Hard Enduro" conditions. We're masochists so we dove into the gnarlies almost immediately. If you enjoy steep, rocky climbs and off-camber switchbacks, you'll love the place. If you want to rip some fast flowing trails, they've got that too. With two perimeter roads and so many trails to choose from, time behind the bars just flies. Shortly into our second day, we ran into a local kid Tim Menne. Rolling solo, Tim asked if he could join our group. We soon put him in the lead as it was clear Menne knew every inch of HP. The four of us freight-trained through the park hit- ting the majority of the technical stuff. Over the course of two full days, we rode as many trails possible — some so sweet, we rode them several times. For those snowed in and experiencing the winter blues, we highly recommend this cool facility. For those looking for hard Enduro-type terrain during the off season, you'll find it's got some skill builders. The best part is it's easier to get to than Disney World and a whole lot more fun! Trail Rider Magazine was there for the woods riding, but for those who also enjoy motocross, Highland Park has three impeccably groomed MX tracks — MX1, 2 and 3. MX1 is their Vet/In- termediate track; MX2 is an advanced pro track, and MX3 is a beginner/intermediate track, a great place to develop your skills. Highland Park hosts a handful of MX races every year, from beginner and vintage to amateur/ pro AMA-sanctioned events, such as the Best in Georgia and Southern All-Stars Series. Race dates are on the highlandparkresort.com calendar. -Kurt