The Sister City relationship between the citizens of Boulder and Dushanbe was born during the Cold War and has survived the break-up of the Soviet Union, civil war and the painful birth of a new nation. With goals of international friendship, peace and understanding, the people of Dushanbe gave Boulder a magnificent Tajik Teahouse. The Teahouse is now a Boulder institution and is visited by more than 100,000 people annually. (boulder-dushanbe.org).
So what's Dushanbe Tajikistan have to do with Hall Ranch you ask? Well, nothing except that the average temperature this time of year in Dushanbe is just over 100 degrees Fahrenheit and lately here in Boulder County its felt more like Mawsynram, India - the wettest place on earth.
The horizon looked great this weekend so I headed up to Heil Ranch only to find it was closed due to the recent rainfall - shocker - so rather than turning around I decided to head to Hall Ranch - I guess I don't have enough body parts aching! This was my second trip up here this year and locals know Bitterbrush is not your everyday ride but I wanted to map the Antelope trail so as Cosmo Kramer would say "From pain comes pleasure!"
All the stories about Hall Ranch are true so before you tackle this relentless trail take a peek at the map and expect a good helping of boulder hopping and no one would blame you for padding up - rocks hurt and yes they don't move! The brutality begins around 1 mile into your ride and for the next mile you will be tortured by boulders and roots and beware on wet tires, roots and wet rubber is not a friendly combination.
All the stories about Hall Ranch are true so before you tackle this relentless trail take a peek at the map and expect a good helping of boulder hopping and no one would blame you for padding up - rocks hurt and yes they don't move! The brutality begins around 1 mile into your ride and for the next mile you will be tortured by boulders and roots and beware on wet tires, roots and wet rubber is not a friendly combination.
If not for all the rocks and roots, the climb isn't bad. This ride peaks in elevation at about 2 miles. Descend down to the Antelope Trail on well-groomed and exhilarating single-track to the Antelope trail split. Head right and enjoy the ride down to the Antelope Trail trailhead. There are some great switchbacks and tight turns that are sure to give any mountain biker a thrill. Antelope is also accessible off Apple Valley Road but get there early because there is very limited parking. Click here for the route and map. Upper Bitterbrush will require exceptional skill and you must pass this section to reach the Nelson Loop. You could walk your bike up the service road if you wish to bypass this section or you can come up Antelope Trail just remember that parking is very limited and your best bet is to park down in Lyons and ride up to the trailhead.
The rain continues but don't let that stop you, thanks for clicking in and I hope to see you on the trail.
Dirt Life
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