When Shane falls in the forest, it doesn't count unless there's video evidence.
There were some cool views on the way down. From a clearing you could see through the snow covered pines all the way down into the dry and baron desert.
I decided the best thing to do would be to head back into the desert for the night and try again first thing the next morning. This at least allowed me to check out the City of Rocks, which is a collection of large rocks in the middle of a field: a natural Stonehenge.
Arriving early, I had the whole place to myself
From here I made another attempt up to the dwellings. Of course, it was lightly snowing on the mountain. I got within 10 miles before the car started having trouble pulling the hill in the snow covered ice. Sliding into a drainage wash out is one thing, sliding off the side of the mountain is another. Time to find something else to do.
From here it was a 3 hour drive to Tucson. I've always had a soft spot for Arizona. The modern and clean cities, the inexpensive top-notch universities, the way the constant sweat and hazardous UV exposure levels give everyone a healthy glow. Cool place. The trip through the state has more than made up for the disappointment of New Mexico. After checking out Tuscon for awhile, I headed out to the trails in Casa Grande. Getting a half hour outside of Tucson, the only real evidence of civilization is the plethora of radio stations. The Casa Grande Trails are built on the side of a small and isolated mountain, and were a good mix of tricky rock sections, steep climbs, and flow.
Dark shadows and bright desert make for tough photography
From here, it was a short drive to Phoenix. I had been planning on hitting the Schultz Creek Trails in Flagstaff, but the weather forecasts were showing a high of 40 degrees. The Black Canyon Trails were at a lower altitude and looked like a good substitute.
Arizona: Ride the Terrarium
Actually, I'm surprised these trails aren't considered an epic. Bench cut flow trails that still maintain the unique qualities of the area with steep climbs and awe-inspiring views. Riding here is just plain fun, and with 70+ miles of trail should be on everyone's to-do list if they're in the area.
From here, I took Route 89A to Sedona. Route 89A from Prescott Valley goes up a mountain and has some pretty spectacular views.
Despite having spent more time than I anticipated at Black Canyon and the detour to take the scenic route, I arrived in Sedona with enough time to get a quick ride in. The Cathedral Rock trails are definitely not indicative of riding in the Sedona area. These are multi-use trails that are setup more for hiking. With that said, there were some singletrack offshoots that had fun banked turns, rock features, and dry creek crossings. Also, the views.
So much to look at
Leaving at sunset, I continued up Route 89A and could still make out some of the features of Oak Canyon. Today was outstanding.
4,300 miles down, and its only getting harder with sunrise/sunset times varying by up to an hour depending upon where I am in the time zone. Also, altitude affects temperatures by up to 30 degrees. Its all a little disorienting. Tomorrows agenda includes monument valley and the grand canyon. Weather looks sketchy, we'll see how it goes.
Shane, thank you for this. Absolutely entertaining. And awe-inspiring.
ReplyDeleteYour style has matured but it has retained its youthful humour. Engaging, entertaining, and funny.
ReplyDeleteThe cherry on this cake was the pro dismount. Arms out saved the clavicle.