Monday, March 28, 2011

Shreddin' Moab


We just returned from a week in Moab, Utah. It was simply incredible. I felt like I rode better than I have the last few times I've been out there. I rarely took a second look at an obstacle and simply did it. I am sure the fit of my new bike has something to do with it. Totally amazing!

On the way out we rode the Ribbon in Grand Junction as a loop, which I highly recommend. In fact I wondered why we ever did it as a shuttle. It's not that tough of a climb and there are some rippable parts on that trail. Fantastic!

While in Moab we rocked Gold Bar, Blue Dot, and Portal. All quite prime. Portal was especially awesome and I railed almost everything. The next day we rode Amasa Back to Rockstacker and Jacksons which was also amazing. There are still quite a few places on Jackson that I walk, but I rode some stuff for the first time.

The following day Kyle, from Acme shuttle, gave us a ride to LPS and Porcupine Rim... always a classic.

A deep nights sleep presented us with tired legs and feeling a bit lethargic so we opted for a new ride, Pipe Dream. It was about 10 miles as a loop from town of flowing single track with a few technical sections. I recommend doing it especially on an off day or in conjunction with another ride.

We were back in the saddle on Friday for some more Amasa Back, Jacksons, and Rockstacker. Those trails simply rock!

On our way back to C. Springs we stopped once more in Grade Junction for a little Lunch Spot action. We were going to ride The Ribbon again, but chose a different combination including Prenump, Gunny, and some other stuff that was super fun.

We didn't stop for pictures often, but those picture that exist are on Jeff's FB page so look at them there. Nothing special, but pretty. I don't know what it is with the lack of us taking pictures, but I think we get caught up in the moment and don't want to take the time. Maybe we need to make more of an effort.

There are so many things beyond biking I enjoy about Moab this time of year. It is great to get away from people and enjoy time connecting with Jefe, relaxing, eating, and drinking beer. The desert isn't really warm in March, but the first desert flowers are poking their way through the rocks and sand adding green and a touch of purple if you take the time to look around. I think Edward Abbey instilled that appreciation for the vivid landscape and harsh conditions. Thank you.

2 comments:

UltraRob said...

I was out in Moab a couple weeks ago so didn't do nearly as much riding as I normally did. It was fun though taking the kids on a couple short hikes in Canyonlands.

I'll have to try Pipe Dream. It sounds like it would have been a perfect ride for this last trip.

Love Gunny Trail in Grand Junction and plenty of the other trails around it.

hurdy said...

Nice Rob. We actually saw you driving down the main drag:)