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The Copper Kettle
Embark on a journey from Toronto to Gaspe, Quebec, a trek equivalent to cruising down to sunny Florida. While Florida promises encounters with motocross legends on their exclusive tracks, we opted for an 18-hour odyssey to Gaspe, where Jacques Cartier first planted his cross, laying claim to what would become Canada. This historic gesture not only shaped Canada's destiny but also indirectly paved the way for the off-road motorcycles we cherish today, thanks to the remarkable trails stumbled upon by Cartier.
Our base camp, Murcdocville, once a bustling copper mine hub, now thrives on winter skiing and windmill energy. But it's not slumbering when the roar of dirt bikes echoes through its valleys. Nestled in the majestic Appalachians, this region offers a cocktail of adrenaline-pumping challenges—steep hill climbs on treacherous shale, high-speed dashes along riverbanks, and daring river crossings.
Yet, the pièce de résistance lies in the abandoned open-pit copper mine, a playground we fondly dub the "Copper Kettle." Here, riders confront the ultimate test: scaling treacherous shale, negotiating boulders, and conquering gravel mounds.
But perhaps the most exhilarating experience awaits those brave enough to ride down the side of the copper mine. Picture this: perched atop the edge, overlooking a vast expanse of rugged terrain, adrenaline coursing through your veins as you prepare to descend. The descent is not for the faint-hearted; it's a heart-pounding rush of pure exhilaration. The shale beneath your tires provides minimal grip, demanding expert control and finesse. With every twist and turn, the landscape unfolds before you in a blur of copper hues and breathtaking vistas. The sheer magnitude of the descent is awe-inspiring, a testament to both nature's grandeur and the indomitable spirit of the riders who dare to conquer it.
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Descending the side of the copper mine is a feat that combines skill, courage, and sheer determination. It's a moment of triumph, a conquest of both the terrain and the self. And as you reach the bottom, the sense of accomplishment is palpable—a reminder that in Gaspe, adventure knows no bounds.
Descents are equally heart-pounding, with gradients so severe that both brakes are futile, and riders careen down like daredevils.
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But the adventure doesn't end there. Two-track trails weave through the landscape, offering a rollercoaster ride through mountain vistas, river crossings, and cascading waterfalls. Gaspe isn't just a destination—it's a pilgrimage for thrill-seekers craving the ultimate off-road experience.
Each day we ventured in a different direction, exploring the diverse terrain that Gaspe had to offer, and each night was spent at the pub. With war stories and tales of conquering the trails, camaraderie flourished among riders.
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This area also took a beating to bikes—the rocks and rugged terrain took their tolls, but only the armor we added saved the bikes from being totally destroyed. This region offers a challenge to all, with trails that can take you from the St. Lawrence to the Atlantic Ocean, across mountains and mines. While Europe has the Iron Giant, we have the Copper Kettle.
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Viva Gaspe!
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This was another great trip organized by Tractionerg. Check out their tours at https://www.tractionerag.com/clinics-shenanigans.
