Welcome to the Jungle! Have a gander at this amazingly manicured patch of dirt jumping paradise that they call The Jungle

We saw this video a while ago and liked the look of the place so much decided to get in touch with one of the main diggers, Dylan Bibbins, to find out a bit more about it.

(If you do know where this spot is then please DON’T mention it in the comments)

Words: Dylan Bibbins
Photos:Cory Tepper

Dirt: Wowzers, the Jungle looks amazing! Tell us more about it!
Dylan: Why thanks, I will.

How long has that place existed?
Well, that’s a story… the Wookie trails began in 2003 under the shovels of Guy Marsh and Cory Mossbrucker. Over the next three years, it became a set of five sizable dirt jumps. Somewhere around 2006, the Wookie trails were left abandoned. It wasn’t until New Years 2010 that we picked up shovels in a second attempt. So began the Jungle.

Is it on private land?
It’s on a state owned easement bordering a certain freeway. My understanding is that the property is unfit for development, and deemed public land. We win!

Is it predominately a MTB spot or a BMX spot?
Most of the locals, myself included, ride big wheels. Personally, I think big wheels allow for even bigger possibilities. Though, we do have a few local 20’s that bust with a shovel and a bike.

Are you one of the main diggers? How big is the crew that use it?
You could say that… There are maybe five of us that dig consistently, and ten or so others that pitch in from time to time. Many more ride than dig. Those who don’t dig need to help prep the trails before riding.

http://mpora.com/videos/pgPqB3QpM
A Tour of the Jungle

Ha, you must employ a gardener to keep the greenery looking that good?!
I guess you could say we all really appreciate some nice greens.

Favourite digging tool?
Flathead. Because spades suck and you can’t dig with a rake. Brooms come in a close second… No riding unswept trails!

Is there space for even more lines or is it pretty much finished now?
We have more space than we know what to do with! We’ll never be finished.

Looks like you’ve got some big ol jumps in there, what’s the biggest double?
Eh, size is relative…Our big step up is about 26’(8m) out and 7’(2m) up. Plenty of hang time.

How do you keep a place like that secret?
The only thing that’s secret is the location. If we like you, you’re welcome. If we don’t, well…

How long have you been riding?
Bikes? Forever. Hardtails? 5 years.

Any words of advice to anyone wanting to start digging a place like that?
Hmm…Every shovel counts. Trails like these don’t come together overnight. You need persistence, a bit of creativity and some friends. You can’t do it alone!