Kirkwood to host 'Near Death Experience' bike camp

The 13th Annual “Near Death Experience” will take place at Kirkwood Mountain Resort from June 7-10, 2012. Known as the premier camp to prepare riders for the Death Ride, the grueling 129-mile bike tour of the California Alps on July 14, 2012, Kirkwood’s Near Death Experience Bike Camp is designed to take riders to the next level.
“The Near Death Experience Bike Camp is a long-standing tradition at Kirkwood. It cultivates a learning environment for applying the best biking techniques by using the challenging terrain of the Sierras to push riders to their full potential,” said Casey Blann, general manager at Kirkwood. “Kirkwood is home for adventurers looking to challenge themselves in both the winter and summer.”

Led by elite coach Rob Panzera from Cycling Camp San Diego, campers will be provided the knowledge and hands-on training necessary to conquer the 2012 Death Ride. Each day consists of on-the-road coaching, including cycling safety, bike positioning, descending skills, climbing skills, nutrition tips, Death Ride insight and additional tools to master the event.

Riders will also have a chance to experience all three mountain passes of the Death Ride tour, depending on ability and inclination. Broken out among the three days of camp, riders can get a feel for the route by riding over Monitor Pass (8,314’), Ebbetts Pass (8,730’) and Carson Pass (8,573’).

Participants in the camp are also guaranteed entry into the 2012 Death Ride, in which open registration is now closed. For a detailed camp itinerary or to register, click here.

Kirkwood features one of the most scenic yet challenging mountain bike parks in the Sierras. The Kirkwood Mountain Bike Park is accessible via Chairlifts 1 and 2 on weekends from July 7-September 2, 2012, from 10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. on Saturdays and 10:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. on Sundays, trail conditions permitting. The network of roads and single track lead you through spectacular terrain high in the Sierra. Advanced riders looking for a challenging cross country ride should check out the Sentinels Trail, intermediate riders should try the Robey Wolfe trail and casual riders should take an enjoyable, scenic ride through Devil’s Corral.

Buy A 2012-13 Season Pass Before May 28 for the Best Value
The best value in 2012-13 season passes are still available, including the new Tahoe Local Pass that provides access to more than 10,000 total skiable acres between Heavenly, Northstar and Kirkwood, marking the most combined terrain on a single season pass at Lake Tahoe. Priced at $419, Tahoe Local pass holders receive seven-day-per-week access to the three best resorts in the Tahoe region for $80 less than last year’s comparable Epic Local Pass. For details on all pass options, visit epicpass.com.

About Kirkwood
Kirkwood Mountain Resort is one of the nation's top destination resorts. Located just 177 miles from the Bay Area along scenic Highway 88, its base elevation of 7,800-feet, assures skiers more annual snowfall than any other resort in North America. Kirkwood is recognized by winter purists and national media alike for the quality of its snow and terrain variety and is a true skier’s destination. Known for its pristine beauty and action-packed expeditions and events, winter fun includes skiing, snowboarding, cross country skiing, snow shoeing, sled dog tours, and backcountry expeditions. An ideal location for weddings and corporate meetings, the Kirkwood Village includes boutique shopping, live music and dining. For more information about Kirkwood Mountain Resort, visit www.kirkwood.com or call 209.258.6000.