Faull Line Gravity Park: From Ziplines to Idaho's Newest Bike Haven
Eric Faull, an enterprising individual, has successfully converted his family's land near Horseshoe Bend, Idaho, into a vibrant new destination for mountain biking enthusiasts: the Faull Line Gravity Park (FLGP). This innovative transition occurred after the closure of his previous venture, Zip Idaho, a ziplining business that operated for over a decade. The park, a testament to Faull's vision and dedication, is now the state's latest shuttle-supported bike park, distinguished by its unique progressive trails and flexible private event options.
A Detailed Look at Faull Line Gravity Park's Genesis and Offerings
Situated approximately 30 miles from Boise, in the scenic vicinity of Horseshoe Bend, Idaho, the Faull Line Gravity Park stands as a testament to one man's passion and adaptability. Eric Faull, the owner and sole operator, meticulously manages every aspect of the park, from shuttle services on bustling weekends to the intricate work of trail building during weekdays. This hands-on approach ensures a personalized and high-quality experience for all visitors.
Faull's journey into mountain biking began unexpectedly. After running Zip Idaho for 14 years, a venture inspired by his experiences in Costa Rica and a diverse background in outdoor adventure, the COVID-19 pandemic forced its closure. It was during this period that Faull, seeking a new outlet for his land, started constructing bike trails for leisure. He soon recognized the extraordinary potential of his property's terrain, leveraging existing road infrastructure from the zipline days to create a seamless transition to a bike park.
The park boasts approximately 600 feet of elevation, characterized by a gradual, rolling descent rather than steep, rocky treacherousness. This allows for significant speed generation, making the trails exhilarating yet accessible. FLGP currently features three distinct descents: Helter Skelter, Bonkers, and Big Hippy, each spanning roughly a mile. These trails are designed with a bike-park-style flow, being wider and machine-built, catering to intermediate-to-advanced riders. Faull emphasizes the 'progressive' nature of the trails, where features like rollers can transform into jumps depending on a rider's speed and skill, offering varied experiences without mandatory obstacles.
FLGP operates Friday through Monday, with shuttle services available from 10 AM to 3 PM. A full day of shuttles is priced at $40, while a 'pedal pass' for those who prefer to self-shuttle or use e-bikes costs $25. Faull's shuttle van, equipped with a trailer, can transport 12 bikes and accommodates up to 20 riders daily, ensuring minimal wait times. Looking ahead, Faull plans to introduce bike rentals, including e-bikes, to enhance visitor experience.
One of FLGP's most distinctive features is its adaptability for private events. Unlike larger corporate-owned parks, Faull's independent operation allows for personalized bookings, such as bachelor parties, corporate retreats, or family reunions, even on non-regular operating days. While campsites are currently primitive, offering picnic tables and portable toilets, Faull's vision includes continuous expansion, with miles of new trails already mapped out.
FLGP further enriches Idaho's burgeoning mountain biking scene, joining other notable destinations like Bogus Basin, Tamarack, Brundage, and Jug Mountain. It serves as an ideal first stop for those embarking on an Idaho bike tour, particularly for van-lifers, offering a unique blend of adventure and convenience.
The creation of Faull Line Gravity Park is a powerful reminder of how adversity can spark innovation. Eric Faull's transition from zipline operator to bike park proprietor demonstrates remarkable entrepreneurial spirit and a deep understanding of outdoor recreation. His commitment to building progressive, accessible trails, coupled with the unique offering of private events, sets FLGP apart. This park is not just a place to ride; it's a testament to passion, resilience, and the enduring appeal of mountain biking. It serves as an inspiration for others to pursue their visions and transform challenges into opportunities, enriching communities and fostering vibrant outdoor cultures.