August 6 - August 9, 2012
Due to popular demand, the Spyders in the Redwoods event was expanded from 2011 to four days this year. Nearly 150 riders and over 90 Spyders converged once again on the former California capitol of Eureka, CA - a Victorian town of history nestled on the ocean and surrounded by the redwoods of the California coast. Riders arrived as far away as Missouri. Cloudy and grey skies hung over the coastal city, however there was plenty of smiles and sunshine to be had in the parking lot at the Red Lion Inn Eureka as riders eagerly shopped at the vendor table, picked up their pins, patches, and t-shirts, and greeted old friends from last year. Monday evening, riders gathered at the historic Samoa Cookhouse for a group meal, starting the 2012 event where the 2011 event left off.
On Tuesday, riders gathered in the parking lot and headed out on one of two organized group rides for the day that ranged in distance between 180 and 225 miles and included scenic rides through the Avenue of the Giants, Humboldt State Park, and Trinity State Park. After sharing a ride, riders shared a meal and/or drinks at on-site and nearby restaurants.
On Wednesday, riders gathered once more in the parking lot and headed out on a different organized group ride that were around 100 miles each and included a ride up the coast through the lagoons along U.S. 101, the elk viewing area near Trinidad, another ride along Avenue of the Giants, and a meal at the Victorian Inn in historic downtown Ferndale. Festivities were concluded Wednesday evening with a group banquet at the Red Lion Inn that included a raffle, karaoke, music, and dancing. By Thursday morning the parking was emptying quickly as riders headed home, eager for next ride.