Places to Ride – “Rumble on the Ridge” in Adena, Ohio

Entrance to "Rumble on the Ridge"

The earth trembled and the ground shook. Loud noises echoed through the distant woods. Was there an earthquake? Did an asteroid strike the ground, sending shock waves through the feet of those strong enough to remain standing? Had Paul Bunyan and Babe, his blue ox, the mythical king of lumberjacks, started to log timber through the rolling hills of eastern Ohio? No! These thunderous sounds emanated in Adena, Ohio at a multi-occasion event called “Rumble on the Ridge.”

Powerline ATV Trail

However, don’t let the name scare you. The event is geared towards the entire family. After talking with David Lengyel, event spokesperson, people get the wrong idea when they hear the name “Rumble on the Ridge.” “They automatically assume that it is a big race,” says David. “The trails have been groomed to be inviting, even to the youngsters riding 50cc or 90cc machines.”

Rumble on the Ridge is a 27+ mile, single-direction trail ride located on the 3,000 acre property of the Shortcreek Sportsman Club, Inc. A private club, the Shortcreek Sportsman Club was established approximately 10 years ago. Members enjoy fishing, camping, and ATV riding. In an effort to raise funds, the club organized the “Rumble” ATV rally which has taken place several times each of the past 7 years.

This year’s season opener, on April 14, 2007, brought in 3,265 riders. Although not a record, this is still an amazing number considering the unseasonably cool weather conditions of that weekend. Two years ago, the event hosted approximately 5,000 riders. David Lengyel mentioned that the increased numbers of the past event were likely due to better weather conditions.

Can-Am brought their new models to showcase at the event.

Even so, the event had plenty to offer. Fisher’s ATV World was hosting auditions for 3 riders to participate in a 400 Class 4x4 ATV Shootout. Winners would participate in a special taping of the show following the event. Brian Fisher was on hand signing autographs and greeting fans. Also, Can-Am brought in some new models for riders to test. As an added bonus, all entrants to “Rumble on the Ridge” received a ticket for a special drawing, with the winner taking home their own Can-Am 400 Outlander.

One of the many hill to conquer during your trail ride.

Once making it to the trails, we experienced a relatively easy course with opportunities to bypass sections that were more difficult, making it easier for novice riders. Those wishing to push themselves had the opportunity to do so on at least 2 relatively large mud bogs and a trail specifically designated muddy. Hills were mostly rut and debris free with the overall trail widths being large enough to accommodate multiple lanes of traffic.

One of the many mud holes and some could eat your ATV alive.

Being a first-time visitor and having very little expectations other than riding with thousands of ATV enthusiasts, I was thrilled by the experience. We rode the loop 2 times within the 8-hour time period allotted for riding. The traffic flowed well, and we only ran into one bottleneck where some people were stuck in the mud.

Don’t worry if you’re feeling disappointed that you missed an opportunity to take part in all of the fun and excitement of “Rumble on the Ridge”. There are two more events scheduled for this year. The tentative dates are May 26, 2007 and September 22, 2007. Check their website for more details or up-to-date information at http://www.rumbleontheridge.homestead.com/

Gates open the afternoon before the event at 3 p.m. for camping and registration. Camping costs are $20 per vehicle. Event costs are $20 per adult and $15 per youth rider. The event staff did a fine job handling incoming traffic and did their best to make the transit times into the area as quickly as possible. In an effort to further expedite this process, the club recommends downloading and completing all waiver forms before arrival.

See you at the Rumble!