The Rockland Preserve in North Madison has its second hit in row. The Preserve Committee erected a large playscape last year that was constructed just in time to help pandemic trapped families find an out place to romp, and now the new bicycle pump track, combined with the miles of mountain bike trails, has been bringing in large numbers of users since it opened.

Rockland Preserve is a 650-acre park located off route 79 in North Madison that has miles of bike and hiking trails and has become extremely popular in the last year or so due to the efforts of dedicated volunteers.

A pump track is basically a small oval of bumps and moguls that provides fun and challenge as bikers race around and negotiate the track. Think a dirt skate park, said Jason Engelhardt, chair of the Rockland Preserve Committee, who along with the committee, helped get both the playscape and pump track funded and constructed.

“Pump tracks are few and far between in Connecticut. Riders travel from all over Connecticut to visit the track at Rockland Preserve. It is a clay loop with rhythmic, flowy bumps on one side that challenge a rider to pump instead of pedal through the loop. There is also an advanced line with tabletops that advanced riders attempt to clear,” Engelhardt said.

A former Source Person of the Week, Engelhardt has been hard at work continuing the efforts to improve the Rockland Preserve. The Daniel Hand High School educator and the Rockland Preserve Committee member has been an enduring force behind the park’s 2017 installation of the bike trail system and its growing popularity and also with recent enhancements.

There are a number of features besides the popular pump track that are attracting riders and families, according to Engelhardt.

“The pump track is easily accessible from the [Route] 79 lot across from Samantha Drive. It is great for young riders and families. You might see preschoolers out there with push bikes or pros out there with dirt jumpers. There is also an outdoor playground located at the same parking area, along with trails designed for the youngest riders just behind the playground. For the adventurers, 20-plus miles of destination-worthy singletrack start at the same parking area. Don’t forget your helmet!” Engelhardt reminded readers.

Madison Beach & Recreation Director Austin Hall said the new track is another success story for the park, as the playground has been a huge hit with families.

“The town is extremely lucky to have such dedicated members of the Rockland Preserve Committee. Jason Engelhardt, along with the committee, have turned the Route 79 entrance to the preserve into a destination for mountain bikers from across New England. Mountain bike enthusiasts are able to enjoy the miles of single-track trails and one of the best pump tracks around. I am grateful to have them on my team,” Hall said.

Rockland Preserve is located on Durham Road approximately 6.5 miles north of the Route 79/80 traffic circle just across from Samantha Drive.