Blue Sky Trail - Fort Collins, CO

The ground has thawed, spring is creeping up through the mulch and that wonderful sleeping “willow” on the break is about to bloom – this can only mean one thing: Mountain Bike season is here!

It’s been a mild winter by Colorado standards and today I look out my office window and nothing but bright sun and blue skies.  I often tinker on my toys and in between wheel swaps and my Daffy Duck, Bugs Bunny squabble with my rear derailleur I managed to get a ride in.  It’s been a couple of months since my last post so some may be wondering “What’s Up Doc?”  Well, Dirt Life is expanding northward and waypoints are pointing towards the Fort.  No, not that special place made up of cardboard, scrap wood and trash can lids, but Fort Collins, Colorado. 

Earlier this month on a cloudy, sunny, cloudy afternoon I got my first taste of northern Colorado single-track.  The Blue Sky Trail trailhead is just west of the south end of Horsetooth Reservoir and for a daily fee of $6 you’ll be thoroughly entertained.  

This low impact trail is hard pack single-track and very well maintained.  There is a split right around the 3.50 mile mark and this day I chose to go right and descend down the slope.  There is a section of service road about 4 miles in which is great for groups to catch up or maybe a chance just to look around and soak in the Rocky Mountain flavor.  The climbs and descents make for a perfect early season warm up and the mild terrain is ideal for all skill levels.  Exposure is full so don’t forget your favorite SPF.  Obstacles are few but often enough to keep your eyes on the trail.  Over my route I only encountered one challenging descent/climb at 3.50/7.55 miles.  The good news is that it is short and completely smooth but at an 11% grade it could prove to be quite a challenge for the beginner.

The first miles of Fort Collins have been mapped and I’m excited about exploring this new terrain.  Click here for mileage and elevation info and check back often for more raves and routes.  The Blue Sky Trail extends all the way down to the Devil's Backbone in Loveland and with good weather, this trail should keep you rolling all day.

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

Dirt Life

Happy Thanksgiving

Traditions are a link to the past but more importantly they represent a love of the moment and hope for the future - at no other point during the year are the reflections of time so common as during the months of November and December.

As a child I used to look forward to A Charlie Brown Christmas this time of year and the tradition continues except I'm now 47 and it takes a little more than the Peanuts gang to ring in the holidays, although there is nothing like sipping on a glass of wine or cocoa by the fireplace with your favorite someone, snow flakes drifting outside the window as the sounds of Vince Guaraldi fill the air.

For the past three years I have managed another tradition of my own on Thanksgiving - snowshoeing among the towering pines and champagne powder of the Rocky Mountains of Colorado.  This year I traveled, thankfully, a short distance to the Indian Peaks Wilderness near Ward Colorado for a little spark and sparkle.

Snow flurries and partly cloudy skies illuminated the trails with a twinkle of silver and gold as the dry powder crunched beneath my feet, only the tender footsteps of the Sea could complete this scene.

Click here for the trail profile and for a little taste of the Colorado winter, click here for a short video on the trail.

Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

Dirt Life

Straunge Strondes

Sagrada Familia

"Of the gladdest moments in human life, me thinks, is the departure upon a distant journey into unknown lands.  Shaking off with one mighty effort the fetters of Habit, the leaden weight of Routine, the cloak of many Cares and the slavery of Civilization, man feels once more happy." - Sir Richard Francis Burton

Dirt Life implies adventure and Sir Richard Francis Burton said it best.  Unearthing the time to travel becomes increasingly difficult with every passing sun so when the wind blows the dust off that world map, often hidden under an itinerary of daily routines, it's best to ride that sweet breath of Zephyrus.

Last week my sister and I embarked on a one-week adventure of two countries and three cities; Barcelona, Florence and Rome.  Our journey began from two different parts of the country with a rendezvous in Newark NJ before departing for Spain.  We passed the night 30,000 feet above sea level jetting towards the rising sun at 600 miles an hour. Filled with anticipation it was tough to get a wink of sleep, minds racing as our internal clocks had us arriving in the middle of the night.

Neither one of us had been to Spain but we did share one common characteristic to this unknown land; its language, which made our time here somewhat familiar.  Like two adventurers setting out on their next journey we shared the duties of navigation however it soon became clear who possessed a command for direction, thanks to that familiar Newtonian gadget.

Barcelona is a city rich in culture with the perfect balance between modern style and classic design and La Rambla is the perfect example with an abundance of riches.  Walk these narrow city streets at night and you're taken away on an incredible journey of sights, sounds and tastes.  The lighting, bouncing off the walls with nowhere to go, creates an ambiance one can only dream of.  With the subtle tones of Spanish guitar emanating through the corridors, imagine your hands around a chilled glass of Sangria, silently gazing into the eyes of your bella Simonetta and you will have found the most romantic place on earth.

El Raval Neighborhood

Sagrada Familia

Sagrada Familia

No conversation about Barcelona is complete without mentioning the extraordinary talents of Antoni Gaudi.  Inspired by nature, the Sagrada Familia is a sight to behold.  At first glance at the Nativity facade you could swear you're witnessing a mudslide in pause.  Step closer and you'll see that the Nativity facade includes many sculptures depicting scenes of Christ's birth.  Step inside and you're treated to a sensation of light, you simply won't believe your eyes.  Stained glass strategically placed illuminates the cavernous space with a kaleidoscope of light and columns as if growing from the marble floor into a canopy of tree branches are quite spectacular.  His genius is further exemplified in the Casa Mila and Casa Batllo located in the heart of Barcelona with highlights too numerous to mention.

Piazza del Duomo

After 2 days in Spain we hopped a plane to Rome where we boarded a train for Florence.  We arrived under a cloudy moon which cast an enchanting light over the Piazza del Duomo.  After checking into the Hotel Botticelli we set out for a brief stroll around the city, walking the same streets as Michelangelo, Leonardo Da Vinci and Raphael had done over 500 years before.  Florence, known as the birthplace of the Renaissance, is a beautiful city which carries with it the spirit of the artists of the time.  An absolute jewel of Italy, you'll lose yourself in the art and architecture that defined the early modern age.

It's impossible to visit Florence without a trip to the Galleria dell'Accademia to view a masterpiece of Renaissance sculpture.  You're greeted to the plaster cast model of The Rape of the Sabines by Jean de Boulogne.  Continue on to the main attraction; Michelangelo's David, placed exquisitely at the end of the Hall of the Prisoners, the unfinished project of Michelangelo for the tomb of Pope Julius II della Rovere.

The Colosseum

We capped our tour with a stop to the eternal city for 2 nights in a charming hotel; Hotel Caravaggio.  Rome, unlike Florence, is extremely busy.  Ancient relics such as the Colosseum, the Forum and the Pantheon seem dwarfed by the activity of daily living but enter these attractions and you're taken back to the days of Julius Caesar and Imperial Rome.

Our last full day in Rome was spent wandering the halls of the Vatican Museum and St. Peter's Basilica.  The audio tour was a bit hard to follow so if your knowledge of art is lacking you could find yourself staring at a fresco by Michelangelo by Raphael, if that makes any sense.  Of course no one can mistake the artist responsible for the spectacular display in the Sistine Chapel.  Recently restored, the colors are as brilliant as the day they were painted.  It's remarkable to see how little attention is paid to The Last Judgment on the altar wall.  Painted 25 years after the ceiling, The Last Judgment represents a much older and more thoughtful Michelangelo, much to the chagrin of critics within the Catholic Church at the time.

It's impossible to absorb fully the beauty and significance of Barcelona, Florence and Rome in a couple of days and even more difficult in our busy lives to carve out the time to such an endeavor but with a little preparation and a positive attitude, you too will find straunge strondes.

Dirt Life

Good Sam Bike Jam

My first road bike ride went about as well as expected.  Having ridden nearly 20 of the toughest miles on a mountain bike the day before, I was just worried about finishing.

The day was a huge success!  Colorado sure knows how to run a bike ride; the Bike Jam was well supported with 9 aid stations all along the route offering snacks, water, bike pumps and first aid kits for all the riders.  The sag support and motorcycle marshals gave the ride a tour-like feel and the Jam area was a welcome sight after a long ride. 

I signed up for the 62 mile route which began innocent enough out of the parking lot of the Good Samaritan Hospital in Lafayette Colorado.  The ride was far less taxing than the abusive route of the previous day up until the climb up Lee Hill Road.  I'm a mountain biker and I was desperately missing that third ring up front but I managed to reach the top without interruption.  The ride down was exhilarating as I pounded on the pedals down Left Hand Canyon Road.  The last few miles were up and down on gentle grades but felt long under a scorching sun.

As part of the 62 mile group, I received a timing chip and to my astonishment came in 78 out of 139 riders. It was a great day and take a peek at the route profile, will make a great training ride in the off season.

Click here for the route profile and thanks to all those volunteers who made this all possible.  If you've ever felt like giving back to your community and enjoy riding your bike, you absolutely need to sign up for the Good Sam Bike Jam.  As the good folks at Good Sam say; Take A Ride, Change A Life...see you next year!  (Good Sam Bike Jam)

Dirt Life

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

Centennial Cone: Relativity

In 1953, M.C. Escher dazzled the eyes with Relativity.  With this piece of mathematical art, Escher explored 3 sources of gravity which continues to amaze the eye and perhaps can somehow explain the path to school was uphill both ways!

Centennial Cone by most accounts is a long and strenuous ride and like the M.C. Escher drawing, it feels uphill in both directions.  Of course that's just an illusion, Centennial Cone offers up some of the best and most rideable downhill singletrack in the area but the climbs feel long and of course the descents feel "Relatively" short.

Our group started at the Mayhem Gulch trailhead just off Hwy 6 or Clear Creek Canyon Road. Quick tip; get there early to grab a parking spot, before 8:00 am if possible and be prepared to lather up with your choice of SPF because there isn't a lot of cover but the scenery is awesome!

Our route cleared just over 16 miles on well maintained and often loose singletrack.  It can get busy on weekends and there are a ton of blind turns so keep your speed in check, sliding a rear tire on those narrow ledges is one sensation you won't soon forget.

Centennial Cone isn't for everyone, you'll need more endurance than skill and a light bike wouldn't hurt either.  Click here for the trail profile and give the Cone a try, you'll be so glad you did.

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

Dirt Life

Rocky Mountain National Park: Emerald Lake

I had the pleasure of meeting up with some folks for a Sunday afternoon ride up from Lyons Colorado to Rocky Mountain National Park in Estes Park Colorado.  The motorcycle ride was fantastic and to include a hike along the way was incredible.

We had planned to do the hike ahead of time so we came prepared, some better than most - I brought only energy bars while the others showed a bit more savvy by bringing lunch; lesson learned!

The hike was gorgeous and the company certainly topped off the afternoon.  I brought along my Garmin 64 to map our hike to help you get an idea of the type of hike you're in for.  You'll first reach Nymph Lake, followed by Dream Lake and then your final destination, Emerald Lake.  The scenery is unbelievable and we were so lucky to have bright sunshine the whole day.

Click here for the trail route and try clicking on the "Player" tab on the top right of the map, you'll be able to view our progress throughout the hike.  

I hope you enjoy the hike as much as we did and thanks for clicking in!

Dirt Life

Nymph Lake

Dream Lake

Emerald Lake

Hall Ranch | Bitterbrush, Antelope trails

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.

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

Hall Ranch | Bitterbrush

Hall Ranch boulder garden; there's a trail there somewhere!

I remember huddling up in gym class on rainy days with my buddies, the occasional glance from inside the scrum deciding who was going to receive the massive dodge ball assault that was only moments away.  At the sound of the whistle we unleashed a surge on our unsuspecting target that even General Petraeus would be proud of.  This past weekend I was the target and Hall Ranch held the Lawgiver!

I just can't seem to make it out of that boulder garden without a scratch but this time it wasn't the garden but the training wheels section that saw my endo; half a mile from the trailhead and my front wheel came to rest perfectly against a rock the size of a watermelon.  Another slow motion maneuver, clipped in I tried to adjust but no use I was over the bars head first into an Orangutan somersault and another fine example of why we wear helmets.

Antelope and Nelson Loop were closed so all I could map was Bitterbrush.  By the way, Bitterbrush just before the 2 mile mark is now winding singletrack and a blast at speed; kudos to the track builders.  Click here for the trail profile and check out the player for the play-by-play.  Thanks for clicking in and I hope to see you on the trail.

Dirt Life

Lost Lake: Indian Peaks Wilderness

There's nothing like a long hike up in the Indian Peaks Wilderness to clear you mind.  This past weekend I just needed to get away and for two and a half hours I was treated to one heck of a winter wonderland.

Just outside old town Eldora you'll find the Hessie trail head and this time of year the trail is covered in 4 to 5 feet of snow, prime for snowshoeing but this day I gave it a go with just my Keen snow boots.  The trail was nicely packed and snowshoes seemed to keep the other trail users pace down.

Travel along past the Hessie townsite through the narrow trails among the towering pines, dusting you from time to time with that champagne powder Colorado is so famous for.  At 2.19 miles you come to the Devils Thumb/Bypass trail marker.  Low on fuel I decided on the short hike up to Lost Lake.  At 2.63 miles the trail splits again with Lost Lake to the left.  The hike from here was a bit steeper through dense forest, it was amazing.  You'll finally reach Lost Lake after 2.89 miles.

The hike to Lost Lake is a mild climb but it does begin over 8500 feet and peaks at just over 9700 feet in elevation so be prepared.  It was an amazing day and I hope to make use of those campsites this winter.

Click here for the trail profile and I hope to see you on the trail.

Dirt Life

Specialized Fat Boy: Dirt Life Quick Take

I rented another Specialized Fat Boy from University Bicycles in Boulder this past weekend but this time it would be rolling on dry Dirt and rock out at Heil Ranch in north Boulder.

My last time out on a Fat Boy, my friend and I took them out during a winter snow storm and what an experience and since then I’ve seriously been considering replacing my trusty 26er with The Jeep of all mountain bikes.

The Specialized Fat Boy I rented was fully rigid with no suspension in front or back.  While this made climbing a breeze (I don’t know if it was the offseason workouts or the fat tires but I never had an easier time flattening out the climbs) the rocky tread out at Heil Ranch was punishing on the wrists, even on the portly rubber.  The weight was never a problem although you quickly realize that these Fat Bikes are not built for speed.

On the descents the bike tends to bounce and at times rather uncontrollably.  My biggest mistake was leaving the toe-clips at home.  With such a big contact patch the bike felt like 8 seconds on Bodacious and left this Cowboy with 2 perfectly spaced bruises on my shin.

I liked the grip shifters in the snow but on dry Dirt I think I would prefer thumb shifters.  The Tektro hydraulic brakes left much to be desired.  With the extra weight you do need sturdy brakes but both times these brakes hummed annoyingly almost from the point I had to start applying them to the end of the ride.

The great news is that everything wrong with this bike is easily corrected except for the suspension.  Rear is not so important unless you’re bombing downhill on rocky terrain but a front suspension I think would make this ride perfect.

If you’ve been thinking about giving a Fat Bike a try, don’t put it off any longer.  You will be amazed how friendly they are on any trail.  You can rent one at University Bicycles and be out on the trail in 15 minutes.  You can find the ride profile on my Garmin page.

Thanks for clicking in and I hope to see you out on the trail - Dirt Life

Tool Box Essentials

Great article from Bike Radar's Home Wrench column for those looking to fill a tool box; my favorite and still missing in my own tool box is the torque wrench.

Click here for the full article and I hope to see you on the trails.

Dirt Life

Fat Bikes: New Sensation

New Sensation is not just a hit song by INXS anymore!  I used to think that laying the first tracks of the day down one of Colorado’s glorious ski runs was the ultimate sensation, that was until this past weekend when my friend Elizabeth and I rented our first Fat Bikes of the season and dared to ride during one of the first snow storms of the year.

There is nothing like packing the first tracks aboard some Ground Control 26 x 4.6 tires, it’s enough to totally change your mind about mountain biking and that’s a huge endorsement given my fervent infatuation for the traditional 26 x 2.4's.

We rented 2 Specialized Fat Boys painted in Bronco Orange and Blue from University Bicycles and took them out to the Eagle trail in North Boulder.  From the first turn of the cranks we both knew that Fat Bikes would soon be hanging in our garages, perhaps even replacing my Scott Genius or her Trek Remedy. Fat Bikes were originally built to keep you on top of the mud and sand but snow is easily our favorite up here in the Rockies.

The bikes roll easily over dry packed powder and have surprisingly incredible traction even in the deep stuff.  Climbing was a breeze too with almost no wheel spin even on steep grades.  Our bikes had no suspension and with stiff tire pressure your arms will take some of the impact but that's easily addressed by reducing the tire pressure to allow the tires to absorb most of the bumps.

The weight of this hardy mount was never an issue with the 2 x 10 drive train and the carbon fiber fork was a nice touch.  I don’t particularly like grip shifters under normal conditions but with winter gloves they worked rather well and depending on the gloves grip shifters are highly recommended. The disc brakes tend to squeak when wet but there’s an easy solution; lay off ‘em.  With such a large contact patch you shouldn’t need to squeeze so hard if at all.

It was an incredible ride and who knows, a Fat Bike might just replace your old 26/27.5/29 inch wheel.  Get out and give one a try, you won’t regret it!  Thanks for clicking in and I hope to see you on the trail.

Dirt Life

Super Betasso: Schmoopy

Boulder County singletracks will soon be under snow so when you have the opportunity to ride this time of year you better take it.  The weather this past weekend was unbelievable and crunched for time there was no doubt it had to be the long route affectionately known as Super Betasso in west Boulder.

Words cannot describe the spectacular trail system out here.  The rails out at Betasso are smooth well groomed hardpacked singletrack and when moist they provide unbelievable traction for those adrenaline junkies.  When the Dirt is dry the trails can be slippery so keep that front wheel underneath you.  The trails thread through a dense and fragrant forest with tight twists and turns and the occasional high bank turn slings you around like a high speed roller coaster.

Trees line some of the finest parts of the system and at certain speeds can add an element of danger so be careful and always ride within your limits.  The shade is abundant and the landscape is pure Colorado.  Last weekend the trail ran clockwise and my route takes you around Canyon Loop to the split then down the Betasso Link to the 4 Mile Link down and back then counter-clockwise on Benjamin Loop to finish out the Canyon Loop back to the trailhead.

It's impossible to highlight any particular area because it is all phenomenal.  I will continue to profess this trail system as possibly the best singletrack experience in Boulder and suitable for any rider of average fitness with average mountain biking skills.

You can find the Super Betasso trial profile on my Garmin page to help you plan your ride.  Don't let the season pass you by and for Dirt clods like me it'll soon be time to give those Fat Bikes a try.  Thanks for clicking in and I hope to see you on the trail.

Dirt Life

Heil Valley Ranch

This was my first time out at Heil since the flooding last year and I knew the trail would be different but nothing could have prepared me for what I found. 

The Wapiti trail had some work done before the flood but the finished product makes this first climb so much easier and with much fewer obstacles.  The climb past the service road just past a mile into the ride saw a good deal of work to smooth out the ride.  Before the facelift this section started out quite rocky and tough to pass without the proper skills but now it will only take a little determination and is suitable for all skill levels.  This trail is near perfect all the way to the split with Ponderosa Loop but nothing compared to the Wild Turkey Loop. 

Catch Wild Turkey via Ponderosa to the right at the split.  Ponderosa splits with Wild Turkey again at 2.9 miles and this day I took the route to the right and a route I highly recommend.  Wild Turkey in this direction is almost unrecognizable.  So many man hours had to go into this trail and we should all be thankful to all the volunteers and Boulder Parks and Rec for all the amazing work, kudos!  It's all downhill in this direction and with the additional features and so many twists and turns, this well groomed trail is sure to bring a smile to any fat tire enthusiast. 

I did the Picture Rock trail down and back and work is still ongoing but seems much smoother than I last remember.  The rollercoaster ride down low is still as thrilling as ever and a can't miss.  I finished off the Wild Turkey Loop then met up with the Ponderosa Loop again before heading back down Wapiti.

There are so many cool photo opps out here, like the homestead ruins on Wapiti, the abandoned car on Picture Rock and the scenic overlook on the north side of Wild Turkey that make this ride so unique.  If you're new to Boulder County, Heil Valley Ranch is a fantastic introduction to Boulder mountain biking and well worth the time and effort.

My time was hampered by a flat in the last 4 miles or so and my speed was seriously affected.  The ride down on a squirrely flat tire made for one heck of a ride and I don't recommend riding this on a flat.  Click here for the trail profile; thanks for clicking in and I hope to see you on the trail.

Dirt Life

School Bus: Hide and Seek

So I'm still a freshman when it comes to West Magnolia but I'm making progress.  My first attempt at School Bus went over about as well as an atomic wedgy in front of your favorite girlfriend so naturally I needed to redeem myself.  Instead of spinning my wheels I decided on a practical approach; to wield a macleod and sledge hammer.
 

My solution for finding the elusive school bus came in the form of volunteering.  As luck would have it, trail work was scheduled out at School Bus and I just couldn't let an opportunity to give back pass me by plus I'd get to sink my hands into some fine Rocky Mountain Dirt.  Well, even this didn't help much when I returned a couple of weeks later only to reach the top with no sign of a school bus anywhere.  Turns out that the bus is not the destination, I suppose I could have just asked.
 

Anyway, I did find it after all with a little help; it's just off the trail by about 20 yards just past the 1 mile mark (look for a school bus wheel lodged between 2 aspens on the left as you climb).  As for the ride, it was great.  The trail begins just a few yards from the intersection of 105-2A and 105.  Turn right on 105 and look for the trail just off to the left.
 

Fall colors painted the hard pack singletrack in spectacular gold and red and the Dirt was moist and tacky almost all the way up to the top.  It was a steady climb with few technical sections, one of which yours truly helped create just a couple of weeks earlier.  You travel through dense pine mixed with aspen trees and all I could hear that morning was the forest breathe with every gust of wind.
 

The climb is gradual with few steep sections but it is continuous and may seem long after a while.  You'll also have the opportunity to test your balance right around the 1.6 mile mark with a plank deck crossing over what appears to be hazardous soil.  Great switchbacks keep it interesting and if it's your first time be prepared for diversions because there are a couple of trail splits and it could have you sidetracked in a hurry.
 

Descending can be sketchy with all the tight turns and rocks and always keep an eye out for other trail users.  It was a great ride on a great trail and one you're sure to enjoy.  Click here for the trail profile - there must have been a disturbance in the force between 4.5 and 5.36 miles as my route gets a bit squirrely but the elevation doesn't seem to be affected.
 

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

Dirt Life

2014 Caribou Classic: A Boulder Mountain Bike Alliance Special Event

The 2014 Caribou Classic is behind us so we’ll have to wait another year to do this all over again.  This year the start was in the north meadow of Caribou Ranch and a great deal of thanks to the Guercio’s for hosting such a great event.  The BMA did one heck of a job putting it all together and many thanks to all the volunteers who kept the wheels rolling safely and responsibly.

It was a lollipop loop through a rocky climb up Sourdough to Left Hand Reservoir Road and the main aid station.  We then traveled up the rather steep Left Hand Rez Road to the sublime Little Raven trail.  We spilled out onto Brainard Lake Road to connect to the Brainard Cutoff.  We then connected to the boulder fields of South St. Vrain to checkpoint D and the start of the climb back up Sourdough.  You had the option of adding another grueling loop at checkpoint D but in the interest of time I decided against it.  We finally completed the loop back at the main aid station on Brainard Lake and Left Hand Rez Roads and the final stretch back to the staging area.

You would have thought I was out partying with Guns N Roses the night before the way I was riding.  I took an endo early trying to hang on with one hand on a descent as I reached for my sunglasses – the BMA sweepers were awesome offering all kinds of assistance on the trail.  The ride seemed uphill both ways and the rocks beat you up mercilessly.  The pros made it look easy but for most of us this was an absolute Sufferfest, even without the extra mileage at checkpoint D.  Click here for the ride profile (does not include extra miles).

I had a fantastic time and so did everyone else, it was a raging success and September 2015 can't come soon enough.  None of this would have been possible without the extrodinary effort and support from the following sponsors:

Boulder Mountain Bike Alliance - Improve the Trail Experience for Everyone in Boulder County
Caribou Ranch
Oskar Blues - Time For Beer
Cyclehops - Home Made Liquids & Solids
The Pros Closet
Sports Garage
Reeb
Redstone Cyclery
Full Cycle
Contour Logic - Planning + Design for Smart Trail Systems
University Bicycles
The Fix
Bicycle Village
Eldorado Springs - Natural Spring Water
Spot Brand Bikes
Kelty
RockyMounts - Boulder Based Bike Racks
Liberty Home Loans
NanaCakes - Life Is Too Short To Eat Boring Pancakes
RC Special Events - An Events Solution Company
Skratch Labs - Natural Hydration
Motion Fitness
Shaving Peggy - Colorado's Rock-n-Roll Band !!!

Thank you all for the memories!  -Dirt Life

West Magnolia: School Bus

School Bus sounds innocent enough but make no mistake this is a bully of a ride.  The slope doesn't look intimidating at first but the loose and often rocky tread will leave you crying uncle all the way to the top.  I actually never made it to the bus, apparently you need a teacher's note and a chaperon to find it and I had neither.  Report cards are in and it seems I'll need to repeat this class.

I began the ride up Sugar Mag to trail 355 then caught the Hobbit south for a short class on West Mag single-track.  I met back up with 355 then single-file through the gate onto School Bus - School Bus and 355 at this point are one and the same.  The tread here is nice hard pack with a thin layer of crushed gravel but don't get too comfortable because your first pop quiz comes quickly and it's a tough one.

Your first and perhaps steepest climb comes shortly after entering the gate on 355.  This is a short but steep grade and will take a lot of leg strength to complete; make it on two wheels and you're king of the hill.

The road levels off at the top when you reach your first trail junction with 105.  Trail 105-2A is like the last day of school, it's such a relief and like summer you'll wish it would never end.  If you only have time for a couple of miles then do yourself a huge favor and ride 105-2A; this section is precisely why we ride fat tires.  For 2.5 miles, out and back, you will be treated to superb Dirt tread on tacky double-track under a canopy of tall dense pine and soon to be colorful aspen trees.  Clear those nasal passages because with the recent rainfall the scent of pine oil and moist Dirt will overwhelm you.  Unfortunately the trail ends at private property so it's back to School; bus that is.

Back at the junction you'll rejoin School Bus on 105.  The climb starts immediately on loose rocky tread.  Gear selection and a bit of finesse will pay huge dividends here.  The extra energy expelled for spinning your rear tire will cost you your lunch money so tread wisely.  At 5.92 miles you'll reach a split with 109; 105 to the left will take you down to Rollinsville while 109 loops around through open meadows and dense forest before meeting back up with 105.  Note that the final descent down 109 can get sketchy when wet with all the exposed roots and rocks along the way.

For an intermediate rider this ride was exhausting, a beginner would absolutely hate it although anyone willing to hike their bike up the first climb will absolutely love 105-2A and it's suitable for all skill levels.  Click here for the trail profile and use the search bar on this blog to find your next ride.  The Fall riding season is here and you won't want to miss the most colorful trails around.  Thanks for clicking in and I hope to see you on the trail.

Dirt Life

Blue Dot | Bubblicious

Lollipops, Dots, Star Wars; to some this might sound like movie night with the kids but for a Boulder County fat tire junkie this can only mean one thing: sweet single-track.  Lollipop Loop, Red/Yellow/Blue Dot, Bear Down/Star Wars, just to name a few, are part of a network of classic mountain bike trails affectionately known as the Dot Trails.  Located just outside the town of Nederland Colorado here you’ll find everything from grueling technical climbs to manic chutes through tight single-track, all under the cover of Rocky Mountain landscaping. 

My ride began at the Nederland Park-n-Ride.  From here I rode up the Peak to Peak Hwy to Magnolia Road.  I took a quick detour down Boot then back to Magnolia for a little flavor, kind of like sneaking a few kernels of popcorn while pouring your soft drink.  I entered Blue Dot just off Magnolia Road at mile 4.18 of my ride.  From here it is a mild descent on double-track through towering pines.  The trail narrows gradually to fine single-track on a mixture of Dirt and small rocks, classic Ned tread.  The climbs are gentle by Colorado standards but you will encounter some rather technical sections that will require strong legs and superb rock-hopping abilities.  Threading through the forest is definitely a highlight and the aspen groves will brighten up this trail deliciously in the fall.

You’ll reach the Red Dot/Yellow Dot loop at the 6.4 mile mark.  This section can get a little rocky in areas with an occasional steep climb and descent, one in particular can be a bit precarious with jagged boulders and exposed roots but don’t despair the soft center of the tootsie pop is not far off.  The mountain vegetation gets thick in parts which makes this section that much sweeter.  This loop ran for 1.7 miles and may add about half an hour to your ride.

The whole route from Blue Dot to the Front Range trailhead took me roughly an hour to complete and ran approximately 9.25 miles.  The elevation gain and loss was minimal for a high country ride although there are a couple of areas that rise and fall pretty steeply.

The Front Range road is wide double-track all the way to the trailhead and Magnolia Road and it’s here that I ran into a couple of guys who convinced me that the ride back down to Boulder is Red Hot.  The ride down was intense, reaching speeds in excess of 40 miles an hour on fat nobby tires is not for the fearful.  Mountain bike tires get squirrely on pavement and the fast approaching hairpin turns at high speed are extremely hard on your brakes.

The afternoon went down like sugar; Click here for the trail profile and next time you get a craving head out west for a little sweetness.  Thanks for clicking in and I hope to see you on the trail.

Dirt Life