Sourdough | Beast Mode

"Will cannot be quenched against its will." - Dante Alighieri

His spectacular ability for devouring up extra yardage when it seems all but impossible, Marshawn Lynch digs deep and blasts through the line taking anyone who dares to bring him down along for the ride.  With sheer determination, the star running back for the Seattle Seahawks knows only one gear; non-stop!  Sourdough by most accounts is not for the weary, the abundance of rocks and roots will certainly quell the enthusiasm of any fat tire pilot, add to that loose gravel and an unrelenting climb and you will come to know what it means to go Beast Mode.

The climbs alone aren't difficult but the loose tread, abundance of rock and roots make these climbs torturous for the novice and intermediate rider.  There's no real relief until the 3.8 mile mark but hang on because the rocks and roots gain strength along this section. The Caribou Classic coming up later this month includes Little Raven via Lefthand Reservoir Road which is a brutal climb up a very loose and dusty rocky road to the Little Raven trailhead; 2 miles of agony after Sourdough.

Sourdough Trailhead

Little Raven

Little Raven is like Sourdough except for one huge distinction; tons-o-traction!  Most of this trail is over 9900 feet in elevation, and nestled within an intimate pine forest the ground is slow to dry which allows for an unbridled indulgence of passions.  The roots and rocks seem larger and some parts are simply unrideable but add the sweetness of pine and moist Dirt and there can be only one word to describe it; intoxicating.  You eventually spill out onto Brainard Lake Road to complete the lollipop loop.  Click here for the route and profile to this classic Rocky Mountain ride.

If you do not possess the skill, strength and endurance for high altitude riding, Sourdough-Little Raven will beat you up.  But don't despair, drive up to Brainard Lake and if you can make it up Lefthand Reservoir Road, catch Little Raven down to Brainard Lake Road, you will absolutely love it!

Thanks for clicking in and I hope to see you on the trail.

Dirt Life