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Leadership. Environment. Adventure. Fun.
Spartanburg County Parks and Recreation Commission's new Outdoor Activities Program, LEAF, is focused on reconnecting the community to nature. Our array of activities offer individuals of all ages the chance to explore the outdoor world in a safe and fun fashion. LEAF programs will bolster self-discovery and self-esteem as you master new skills and meet challenges head on. So turn over a new LEAF in 2008 and take a walk off the beaten path - you've got the world to gain.
Mountain Biking Programs
Fat-bottom Girls Mountain Biking Workshops
 Dates: March 2, April 20
Cost: $10 per session
This short three hour course is geared towards women who want to learn the basics of mountain biking. The unusual name harks to mountain bikes being nicknamed "fatties" because of the large tires used in the sport. as such, "Fat-Bottom Girls" refers to the ride, and not necessarily the rider, although in spandex bike shorts it may feel differently. The workshops consist of on- and off-the-bike instruction and riding.Specific Instruction will be given on: Bike Fit Guidelines, Mounting Technique, Body Position, Focus and Balance Techniques, Gearing/Shifting, Braking Techniques, Climbing Techniques, Cornering Techniques on uphill, downhill and switchbacks, Bike Handling Drills, Trail Repair, fixing a flat, Chain Maintenance, Trail Etiquette and a general discussion on bike "anatomy", hydration, eating and recommended bike clothing.
A five-mile trail ride on easy local trails will follow. A limited amount of bikes will be available for those who don't own one.
Kids, Earth and Tires Series
Dates: Monday nights in May
Cost: $10 per session or $35 for the month
Children age 6-11 will learn the basics of mountain biking in a fun, interactive setting. Kid-friendly instructors will teach bike-handling skills through fun games and a miniature obstacle course. Each class will culminate in a short ride in which parents accompany their children on an easy trail to watch them demonstrate their new prowess. A limted amount of bikes will be available for those who don't own one.
Night-Fright Night Mountain Biking Workshop
Dates: Not set
Cost: $15
This workshop will transform night-mountain bike riding from intimidating to fun. Participants will learn how to ride at night safely and have the chance to demo light systems to find the best one for their needs. A limited amount of bikes will be available for those who don't own one.
Stump Jump 11th Annual Cross-Country Mountain Bike Race
Date: May 18
Cost: $30 for adults, $20 for juniors
Test your new mountain biking skills against the pros at the South Carolina State XC Championship Race. Categories for beginners, intermediate, and pro riders as well as a youth race make the event friendly to the whole family, regardless of skill level.
Great American Campout
Dates: April 18-19
Cost: $5/person, $15/family
Reconnect with the simpler things of life at the Great American Campout. You’ll learn how to set up a campsite and outdoor vendors will demo the newest camping gear and help you find what you need to turn camping into a comfortable, fun experience. Children will love the nature walks, Leave No Trace presentations and games planned for the event. You won’t even miss the T.V.!
Spartanburg Mini-Yacht Club Kayaking Programs
Roll Clinics/ Kayaking 101
Dates: Wednesday nights
Cost: Free
A trained instructor will help unravel the mystery of rolling in the safety and warmth of an indoor pool. Whether you’re an experience boater or slipping into the spray skirt for the first time, this class is dedicated to making you feel comfortable as you make the transition from the pool to the water. Three boats will be available to demo if you want to test-drive a mini-yacht before you buy your own set of gear.
Spartanburg Mini-Yacht Club River Trips
Dates: not determined
Cost: $15
River excursions with an instructor will help you feel safe as you traverse into the world of whitewater kayaking. Trips are decided based on skill level and will focus on teaching participants how to interact with current, catch and peel-out of eddys, roll in current and much more. Three boats will be available to demo if you want to test-drive a mini-yacht before you buy your own set of gear.
9th Annual Tame the Tyger River Race and Festival
Date: April 12
Cost: $20/single kayk or canoe /$30 for doubles.
You can push your endurance to the limit or float your way down 7.5 miles of beginner whitewater during the Tyger River Race. Great prizes and a boat giveaway will spur more advanced boaters to rush to the finish line. Safety boaters along the river will ensure participants of all ages navigate smoothly through the trickier sections. At the end of the race, good food, music and entertainment will kick off the festival. People can demo boats from local outfitters or chill out and watch the premier of the spring LVM whitewater kayaking movie.
Click here to download the new 2008 T-shirt design tyger_final
LEAF/GOLS Adventure Camps
Dates: June 23-27, July14-18
Cost: to be determined
Help your children fall in love with the outdoors this summer by enrolling them in Adventure Camps. The camps are divided into two age groups of 6-10 and 11-15 and will have age appropriate instruction for rock climbing, kayaking and mountain biking by trained instructors. The camps will also focus on Leave No Trace practices. Children will participate in a mini-adventure race the last day of camp to demonstrate their skills for their parents. Each activity is geared to help children gain self confidence and boost esteem as they explore alternatives to traditional outdoor recreation. Children may bring their own gear or use the camps.
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Map of the Cottonwood Trail