Larry McAfee Course at McAlpine Creek Park

The Larry McAfee Course, while primarily known as a cross-country running course, is generally considered easy for mountain biking. It lacks the technical features like rocks, roots, or drops found on dedicated mountain bike trails, making it more suitable for casual rides or gravel bikes. The broader McAlpine Creek Park also offers greenway paths that are mostly crushed gravel or paved.

The terrain is mostly flat for about 85% of its length. You'll encounter a mix of grass and dirt trails, with some sections featuring pea gravel and cinder, which can be loose. There is one notable, steep hill approximately 150 meters long, known to runners as 'the hill'.

The route is approximately 4.3 kilometers (2.7 miles) long. For an average mountain biker, it typically takes around 20-25 minutes to complete, depending on your pace and how often you stop.

Parking is available at various points within McAlpine Creek Park. The main trailhead for the Larry McAfee Course is usually well-marked within the park, offering convenient access. Look for designated parking areas near the course entrance.

Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the trails within McAlpine Creek Park, including the Larry McAfee Course. Please ensure your dog is kept on a leash at all times and that you clean up after them to maintain a pleasant experience for all park users.

No, there are typically no permits or entrance fees required to access McAlpine Creek Park or to use the Larry McAfee Course. The park is free and open to the public.

Spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant conditions for mountain biking the Larry McAfee Course, with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can be hot and humid, while winter can be chilly, though the trail is usually accessible year-round.

Yes, the route intersects with and runs alongside several other paths within McAlpine Creek Park. You'll find sections that overlap with the McAlpine Creek Greenway, Irvins Creek Greenway, and Campbell Creek Greenway, offering opportunities to extend your ride.

The course winds through a blend of natural scenery, including wooded areas and open fields. You'll also ride alongside the McAlpine Creek Greenway, which follows a pond and crosses McAlpine Creek, providing pleasant views of the water and surrounding nature.

Yes, the Larry McAfee Course is designed as a loop, making it convenient for mountain bikers as you will finish where you started without needing to retrace your steps.

While suitable for mountain biking, the Larry McAfee Course is most notable for its historical significance in the cross-country running community. It has hosted numerous major running events for over 40 years, including state championships, and is well-known for its unique design and features, particularly 'the hill'.