Down a steep slope, the ground flattens out for a second, then down again to build up more speed. You see the six-foot-high jump ramp that curves almost vertical and ride toward it with no fear. You’re launched into the sky, throw your hands out in joy, then back onto the downslope, rubber mulch pad at the landing, and then curve around a berm to decrease your speed.
Your heart’s pumping as you just rode the new bike trick jump at Valmont Park.
Finished in late July, the new trick jump has been a hit with bike riders. The architects of this new element at the park are Boulder Parks and Recreation (BPR), “303 Dirt” Owner and Founder Gurion Blattman, Dirtsculpt, and the PLAY Boulder Foundation.
The jump is in the “glades” section of Valmont Park’s bike park area, close to the dog park, skate park, and bike pump track. The jump can be used any time of year and requires minimal maintenance.
The vertical curve of the ramp is designed to not only encourage jumps, but also slow a rider to a safe jump speed. The landing area is a rubber mulch pad in case riders don’t land successfully.
“I wanted to give back to this amazing bike riding community and this bike park,” said Blattman. “This trick jump is a place for riders of all ages and skill levels to challenge themselves and have a great time.”
Design and construction of the bike trick started in October 2022 with BPR staff helping to pick the spot so it would not be too close to the advanced areas of the bike park, but still close to the Valmont parking lot and have synergy with the nearby bike pump track.
This project was also completed in honor of Blattman’s late wife, Sara, who was also an advocate for community biking spaces, like Valmont Bike Park, with Gurion.
Community members are invited to come check out the new bike trick jump, challenge themselves and catch air!