Pioneer creek to. Forest road 724. Have a rest day and then head into Gunnison on monday. I will spend my rest day on some blm land near never sink.
So I didn't have to hike 2 miles only a mile and 800 feet.
I hiked back in not much time ate some food. I have about a day left unless I can find some water then two days. Because some food is water based.
I might spend another day I might not.
I met Traci who was the first at the trailhead. We talked about look at some pictures and she was off. She had spent more time in some of the spots I toured.
Well back on the bike.
So I finished off the canyon and the crossed the Blue Mesa Dam and traversed the Blue Mesa res. Pretty bland after going through the canyon.
I tried to hike up Dillion pinnacles but never made it. I did 1.5 and need to save the rest of my energy for the ride. O well I had some exhausting couple of last days.
I stopped in the visitor center and charged my phone and got where I can stay for the next few days. I love how they display the maps.
Pretty easy day my tour is winding down. Lots more rest days comming up. I managed to get my bike in working order.
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile
Saturday, July 26, 2008
Chasm
Majestic walls salute me as I appear from the secluded tree growth. Now standing on the rocky moss dwelling, nature has provided.
Sheltered by the sun with a thin sheet of white whisper.
The snaking river craving out its appetite as an unwilling refugee. Imprisoned to cast its fate digging deeper trying to find safe passage.
Nestled within myself knowing time has left us both. Blinded by beauty I no longer see.
Listening to reality as it has my only escape. The bees attracted to me, the water screaming, as it seeks a balance with it's unlevel plight.
I move to recover I move to feel the solid moss beneath my feet.
I am free and the river remains. I am free to which the river never obtains.
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile
BLM land to Gunnison National forest.
Today will hopefully be a light touring day. If my camp turns out ok then it will be 24 miles and about 2000 feet of climbing through a gorgeous Volcanic canyon.
I have been getting up early as of lately in my tour. Traffic, cooler temps, more clothing less bites, and using more sunlight for my journeys. So after my short stay on BLM I rose with the great sunrise. I collected my gear and was off. The skeeters were bad here with a marsh swamp area just below. I had maybe a quarter mile of dirt to get back onto 92. A lovely spot indeed. After going some 80 miles I seen my first sign point to forest access. The Gunnison rangers have their act together it appears. I had strip off my pants only to put my tights back on after a cold head wind and now descending after a brief hill. Even now as I climbed I was still cold at it was 900 o'clock. after 1500 climb and 13 miles I ate breakfast. I saw picnic table by Crystal Creek trail. I had rasions, ritz crackers, summer sausage, and two PBs.
I put aside some ramon noodles to be cooked by the time I got back. I then headed out on the trail a 2.5 mile hike to break up the day. Ingenious rocks galore. The hike was nothing short of out of this world.
Through out my tour I have constantly amazed. Having planned this route by myself I have flying by the seat of my pants. I receive tibidts of information here and there. Yet for the most part have only have an idea where my next camp will be, food, and etc.
I continued to hike to the chasm. It was a brief walk which went up and down. I had now traversed three hills with each one getting bigger.
I was in awe at the view much better than the north rim by far. Well time to hike back
I met a lady and she had the same thoughts its not over.
I gave a better description than I got. There was a Y intsection which leads to two different over views.
At any I wished her good luck and was off. I came bike a little winded but it didn't seem like I walked five miles and climbed a 1000 feet. Something to do with the splendid views I imagine.
I had forest, igneous rocks shist and quartz yummy, small brush which made green walls, and of course cliffs.
Side note yesterdays ride was known as the counties I will have to look them up but I know Monore, Gunnison, Delta, Crawford.
I ate my Ramon noodles and left. I met a fellow touring he was in dire need of water.
How hard would it be to carry a few water tablets to purify your frikin water! My rant. He had no panniers at all. I didn't share my precious cargo. Earlier that morning a motor cyclist from LA stopped and gave me a liter of water to top me off. I was great full thanks. I am not sure how long I have to go but if the visitor center has water if so than that cyclist is unprepared. I will never get shaving a couple of pounds.
My food management has been getting a whole lot better. I should arrive in Gunnison almost empty. I still have two more days of food. I have reduced my water to a gallon. Knownly water is easy to find and then filter. I did splurge comming into the valley I had two gallons. That went by quick though I am back down to a gallon. I should be able to refill tomorrow.
I managed to loose my reflective vest and one of my water proof pannier covers.
Ans so far damage water jug by Tuba city with all the dam beer bottles busted I managed in the dark to slice it. This was a good thing o found. I also lost and quickly replaced my mirror. Not to bad so far.
The day was spent going up and down. They managed not to build a single bridge. It weaved as the canyon weaved. I entered the canyon right alongside crystal creek. Which seemed rather tame. Then at the hike I saw the gapping hole in the hard lava rock and was stunned. There were many pull outs to gaze upon and rest. At one point I looked across the valley at two 14s. As I did I saw a thunderstorm roll across I watched in awe as lighting struck the I was fine in the sun and on the cliff.
Of course I could see rain clouds behind me know so I moved I made it to hermits rest and the up slope wind forced me to throw on a bit more clothes. Once again I got cold. I was well above 8000 feet so it didn't take much.
I was going to sleep here but then I found pioneer point much much better. Of course my road was hard if not impossible to find like normal I found 719 not 720 though.
I was happy a recreation area had primitive camping a park to the north could learn a thing or two.
So I was off to my campground yeah!
I had one himogus hill I hit 30 34 going around curves and such for a good 3 miles it was like a motorcycle. I had a couple other good runs also at 30 they were shorter and with out graudrails a little scary on the drop off. Of course lots of climbing. This is motorcycle haven here. Very few cars if any. Every motor I met treated me with respect even the trailers.
So I made it to pioneer point and omy god another awesome place the frikin valley so far is out of this world and to think I would have missed it. WoW!
So I am at my camp site only need to hike another 2 miles and 800 feet down!
I saw on the trail register people were seeing bears o my. You see while I am telling someone my plans if I'd ont give them specifics I try to be found. However with a trail register. I have the rangers looking after me and they can see my bike at the trail head. So now I have some one saying where is he and the rangers saying this person is right here. Of course only if something happens.
At any rate I take my photos of the gorgeous view and head out err down. I cross a couple of bridges and descend to my camp ground. I quickly set up my tent fearing rain.
I wash my socks in the creek and let them dry. I talk a hike down a little more as this goes much farther than I want it goes all the way to the Res so you can boat camp.
I see a huge water fall take a few pics and walk back up. Not to go overboard. 30 miles 3000 feet up. 7 miles hiking and a 1000 feet up.
So I ate dinner ritz crackers and PB before I went down I had some PBs and green beans followed by apricots. (After I saw the bears in the trail register I hung my food). I read some Tai-Pan and then went to bed ready for more hiking and fun in the sun. My bike is back up to acting like a retard I should be able to limp back to Denver hopefully. Another side note I put 2000 miles on my trip so far. My odometer didn't work for that day and since it has been fine.
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile
Today will hopefully be a light touring day. If my camp turns out ok then it will be 24 miles and about 2000 feet of climbing through a gorgeous Volcanic canyon.
I have been getting up early as of lately in my tour. Traffic, cooler temps, more clothing less bites, and using more sunlight for my journeys. So after my short stay on BLM I rose with the great sunrise. I collected my gear and was off. The skeeters were bad here with a marsh swamp area just below. I had maybe a quarter mile of dirt to get back onto 92. A lovely spot indeed. After going some 80 miles I seen my first sign point to forest access. The Gunnison rangers have their act together it appears. I had strip off my pants only to put my tights back on after a cold head wind and now descending after a brief hill. Even now as I climbed I was still cold at it was 900 o'clock. after 1500 climb and 13 miles I ate breakfast. I saw picnic table by Crystal Creek trail. I had rasions, ritz crackers, summer sausage, and two PBs.
I put aside some ramon noodles to be cooked by the time I got back. I then headed out on the trail a 2.5 mile hike to break up the day. Ingenious rocks galore. The hike was nothing short of out of this world.
Through out my tour I have constantly amazed. Having planned this route by myself I have flying by the seat of my pants. I receive tibidts of information here and there. Yet for the most part have only have an idea where my next camp will be, food, and etc.
I continued to hike to the chasm. It was a brief walk which went up and down. I had now traversed three hills with each one getting bigger.
I was in awe at the view much better than the north rim by far. Well time to hike back
I met a lady and she had the same thoughts its not over.
I gave a better description than I got. There was a Y intsection which leads to two different over views.
At any I wished her good luck and was off. I came bike a little winded but it didn't seem like I walked five miles and climbed a 1000 feet. Something to do with the splendid views I imagine.
I had forest, igneous rocks shist and quartz yummy, small brush which made green walls, and of course cliffs.
Side note yesterdays ride was known as the counties I will have to look them up but I know Monore, Gunnison, Delta, Crawford.
I ate my Ramon noodles and left. I met a fellow touring he was in dire need of water.
How hard would it be to carry a few water tablets to purify your frikin water! My rant. He had no panniers at all. I didn't share my precious cargo. Earlier that morning a motor cyclist from LA stopped and gave me a liter of water to top me off. I was great full thanks. I am not sure how long I have to go but if the visitor center has water if so than that cyclist is unprepared. I will never get shaving a couple of pounds.
My food management has been getting a whole lot better. I should arrive in Gunnison almost empty. I still have two more days of food. I have reduced my water to a gallon. Knownly water is easy to find and then filter. I did splurge comming into the valley I had two gallons. That went by quick though I am back down to a gallon. I should be able to refill tomorrow.
I managed to loose my reflective vest and one of my water proof pannier covers.
Ans so far damage water jug by Tuba city with all the dam beer bottles busted I managed in the dark to slice it. This was a good thing o found. I also lost and quickly replaced my mirror. Not to bad so far.
The day was spent going up and down. They managed not to build a single bridge. It weaved as the canyon weaved. I entered the canyon right alongside crystal creek. Which seemed rather tame. Then at the hike I saw the gapping hole in the hard lava rock and was stunned. There were many pull outs to gaze upon and rest. At one point I looked across the valley at two 14s. As I did I saw a thunderstorm roll across I watched in awe as lighting struck the I was fine in the sun and on the cliff.
Of course I could see rain clouds behind me know so I moved I made it to hermits rest and the up slope wind forced me to throw on a bit more clothes. Once again I got cold. I was well above 8000 feet so it didn't take much.
I was going to sleep here but then I found pioneer point much much better. Of course my road was hard if not impossible to find like normal I found 719 not 720 though.
I was happy a recreation area had primitive camping a park to the north could learn a thing or two.
So I was off to my campground yeah!
I had one himogus hill I hit 30 34 going around curves and such for a good 3 miles it was like a motorcycle. I had a couple other good runs also at 30 they were shorter and with out graudrails a little scary on the drop off. Of course lots of climbing. This is motorcycle haven here. Very few cars if any. Every motor I met treated me with respect even the trailers.
So I made it to pioneer point and omy god another awesome place the frikin valley so far is out of this world and to think I would have missed it. WoW!
So I am at my camp site only need to hike another 2 miles and 800 feet down!
I saw on the trail register people were seeing bears o my. You see while I am telling someone my plans if I'd ont give them specifics I try to be found. However with a trail register. I have the rangers looking after me and they can see my bike at the trail head. So now I have some one saying where is he and the rangers saying this person is right here. Of course only if something happens.
At any rate I take my photos of the gorgeous view and head out err down. I cross a couple of bridges and descend to my camp ground. I quickly set up my tent fearing rain.
I wash my socks in the creek and let them dry. I talk a hike down a little more as this goes much farther than I want it goes all the way to the Res so you can boat camp.
I see a huge water fall take a few pics and walk back up. Not to go overboard. 30 miles 3000 feet up. 7 miles hiking and a 1000 feet up.
So I ate dinner ritz crackers and PB before I went down I had some PBs and green beans followed by apricots. (After I saw the bears in the trail register I hung my food). I read some Tai-Pan and then went to bed ready for more hiking and fun in the sun. My bike is back up to acting like a retard I should be able to limp back to Denver hopefully. Another side note I put 2000 miles on my trip so far. My odometer didn't work for that day and since it has been fine.
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile
Crawford to Gould Res. 10 miles. About an hour and a half
I went through the town of Crawford. Nice little business district no coperate crap. I then had to climb that same canyon.
Upon my climb I saw a sign that said gas 80 miles. This was followed up by a sign that said Gunnison 61 miles.
So no gas in Gunnison? By the way the gas station is called Despardo. I bought .5 gallons of milk and a liter of pop.
I went by a couple of goats alongside the road who being used as long mowers. I saw 8 dear. Some running along the road. Some darting out onto the road. One deer couldn't quite clear the fences. I wonder if that hurt them.
I saw some Elk also.
I had to climb my hill again. The sunset reminded me of home. By act of congress I found BLM land and beded down the skeeters are bad here time to wake up extra early.
I went through the town of Crawford. Nice little business district no coperate crap. I then had to climb that same canyon.
Upon my climb I saw a sign that said gas 80 miles. This was followed up by a sign that said Gunnison 61 miles.
So no gas in Gunnison? By the way the gas station is called Despardo. I bought .5 gallons of milk and a liter of pop.
I went by a couple of goats alongside the road who being used as long mowers. I saw 8 dear. Some running along the road. Some darting out onto the road. One deer couldn't quite clear the fences. I wonder if that hurt them.
I saw some Elk also.
I had to climb my hill again. The sunset reminded me of home. By act of congress I found BLM land and beded down the skeeters are bad here time to wake up extra early.
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile
Thursday, July 24, 2008
Crawford to Crawford
I decided unkownly to go to the Black Canyon National forest of Gunnison.
It started out ok but I got bad directions.
I had to traverse a huge canyon say 500 feet down and up. It was blazing hot by this time I had sweated enough to fill a kiddie pool.
The scenery in and on top of the canyon was amazing. I hit 30 going down this would be the shallow side.
I then started my climb 1000 feet in 10 miles. I then missed my turn off due to bad directions. I was looking for a paved road when I should have gone done the gravel. This took me about 7 miles out of range. Now noon time I was really roasting and had to traverse more fri kin gravel. I made it back to the original road and there was tar and more climbing. The crappy directions said four miles of gravel. So I was waiting and climbing. Then at last through the dripping sweat I saw the road change. Yet more bad news they laid down Mag chloride which made everything muddy. So now I have four miles of mud to go through. Still climbing. Since this was volcanic rock the flow caused this hill verses like most canyon which you go down.
So I get to the gate and another four miles of gravel. I am gonna die. So now 13 miles of gravel which finally is down hill. Of course I dare not go at lighting speed. So finally I get to the ranger station 330 hours later at 1330 hours and its closed. WTF.
There is no primitive camping at the National Park WTF. Considering how primitive the park is anyway in every form of the word.
So disgusted I take in the view of the canyon and leave. I could have stayed on BLM just outside the park. Yet why wake up to 6 miles of gravel, the chance of rain, and not wanting to go back to visit the park.
So I went down hill and came back. It was a lot faster coming back mind you.
I did loose a screw and had to replace it. I do have another option only 10 miles away. So why not start the day off right. Rather than starting from a dead end.
Of course by the time it was 1200 I had all but lost my shower. Which is why I never go out of my way to get one. A sponge works just as good.
So today I will have done 50 miles and gone 20 towards my destination. Oh joy!
The view was lovely though amazing. Only a hand full of people were there.
So carry on I got ten more miles. Tomorrow will have some lovely scenery.
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile
I decided unkownly to go to the Black Canyon National forest of Gunnison.
It started out ok but I got bad directions.
I had to traverse a huge canyon say 500 feet down and up. It was blazing hot by this time I had sweated enough to fill a kiddie pool.
The scenery in and on top of the canyon was amazing. I hit 30 going down this would be the shallow side.
I then started my climb 1000 feet in 10 miles. I then missed my turn off due to bad directions. I was looking for a paved road when I should have gone done the gravel. This took me about 7 miles out of range. Now noon time I was really roasting and had to traverse more fri kin gravel. I made it back to the original road and there was tar and more climbing. The crappy directions said four miles of gravel. So I was waiting and climbing. Then at last through the dripping sweat I saw the road change. Yet more bad news they laid down Mag chloride which made everything muddy. So now I have four miles of mud to go through. Still climbing. Since this was volcanic rock the flow caused this hill verses like most canyon which you go down.
So I get to the gate and another four miles of gravel. I am gonna die. So now 13 miles of gravel which finally is down hill. Of course I dare not go at lighting speed. So finally I get to the ranger station 330 hours later at 1330 hours and its closed. WTF.
There is no primitive camping at the National Park WTF. Considering how primitive the park is anyway in every form of the word.
So disgusted I take in the view of the canyon and leave. I could have stayed on BLM just outside the park. Yet why wake up to 6 miles of gravel, the chance of rain, and not wanting to go back to visit the park.
So I went down hill and came back. It was a lot faster coming back mind you.
I did loose a screw and had to replace it. I do have another option only 10 miles away. So why not start the day off right. Rather than starting from a dead end.
Of course by the time it was 1200 I had all but lost my shower. Which is why I never go out of my way to get one. A sponge works just as good.
So today I will have done 50 miles and gone 20 towards my destination. Oh joy!
The view was lovely though amazing. Only a hand full of people were there.
So carry on I got ten more miles. Tomorrow will have some lovely scenery.
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile
So I camp out in Hotchkiss for 3 bucks and got a hot shower awesome. I missed getting rain on by going to the library.
I went ten miles to Crawford and the went to the North Rim Black Cannyon of Gunnison. The newest national park I 1999 this is going be awesome.
Another 14 miles and a camp site should await me with awesome views.
I went ten miles to Crawford and the went to the North Rim Black Cannyon of Gunnison. The newest national park I 1999 this is going be awesome.
Another 14 miles and a camp site should await me with awesome views.
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
I forgot a part. I woke up early and hiked down to the trail head on Monday. It didn't rain Sunday and I was hot most of the day. I walked in a loop and this took about 15 mins. Happy none of my bike stuff got wet or taken, I assembled my gear and put the cold descent clothes, gloves, hat, and all the above. Dressing in layers not to let that cold get me. I was headed into aspen freezing my assen.
I passed by a town called independance which was a ghost town. They lost the county seat to Aspen. They also lost the gold. The pass had been scared by a line on the cliff from way back when the stage coach was working it. They spent 2.9 million in restoration of the pass. I manage to fly down the hill in the cold. At times on comming trucks would take up the one laned roads. This was for a construction project. At one point they were chip sawing the road so I had to go a little slow. I did see some parachute people comming down. They were skilled landing in a baseball diamond shaped hay field. 3 of them I got the last in view of my camera.
I again saw a deer jump out in front of a car I was only 20 feet away. The car heading into aspen was going slow enough. They had a bike path yet this was way to narrow less than 2 feet. I knew I hit the town when I started to see the sewer manholes yet I was still I'm the country setting. The whole ride was idealyic. Hugging the cannyon and entering the valley and poof into Aspen it was so quick I got lost. I whipped out my map and started looking. I find a food store which had a map of the toewn and that helped out imennsly. So on 800 monday I got my food and was walking around the pedestran mall area near mill where there is th city park. (Beatiful city I must say). That is when I rolled over some chords that attached to a canera and another one attached to a microphone. "Wow we have to do man on the street". The rest is history.
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile
I passed by a town called independance which was a ghost town. They lost the county seat to Aspen. They also lost the gold. The pass had been scared by a line on the cliff from way back when the stage coach was working it. They spent 2.9 million in restoration of the pass. I manage to fly down the hill in the cold. At times on comming trucks would take up the one laned roads. This was for a construction project. At one point they were chip sawing the road so I had to go a little slow. I did see some parachute people comming down. They were skilled landing in a baseball diamond shaped hay field. 3 of them I got the last in view of my camera.
I again saw a deer jump out in front of a car I was only 20 feet away. The car heading into aspen was going slow enough. They had a bike path yet this was way to narrow less than 2 feet. I knew I hit the town when I started to see the sewer manholes yet I was still I'm the country setting. The whole ride was idealyic. Hugging the cannyon and entering the valley and poof into Aspen it was so quick I got lost. I whipped out my map and started looking. I find a food store which had a map of the toewn and that helped out imennsly. So on 800 monday I got my food and was walking around the pedestran mall area near mill where there is th city park. (Beatiful city I must say). That is when I rolled over some chords that attached to a canera and another one attached to a microphone. "Wow we have to do man on the street". The rest is history.
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile
After completing my interview with Brandon on Plum TV ch 16 I went to the Aspen library. I got a half an hour of internet. I asked if I could get a copy of the interview with the intention of stopping by on the way out of town.
I took that time at the library to plan my route to Gunnison I figured 7 days maybe do some hiking in the black canyon recreation area.
So after that I charged my batteries read some news and looked at the Colorado gazette map.
Heading on out on 82 was torn apart, but they did have a bike path. I kept to the road as I tend to find them hard to navigate with a trailer and in general. They really like using roundabouts here in central CO about time we demanded more from drivers.
I went by the airport totally forgetting to stop. Maybe it was that big downhill, the traffic, planes, or too focused. I missed my chance. 82 is a four lane highway with stoplights (freeway)
The Airport sits alongside 82. I was watching a couple planes take off over head. They use the right lane as the HOV not sure how that works. This allows a bus easy access to the bus stops along the road. Weird to have bus stops along the rural freeway. So I am going down hill to Basalt I would reach 6800 feet by the time I was down in Carbondale. A nice 3000 foot plug. I reached Basalt and ordered Subway my first fast food since Rawlins WY. Lovely tuna and veggies.
I checked my messages and I see plum "Ben's big bike ride".
Wow that was fast! I only now needed to go back and retrieve my gift. No problem there hop on the bus and I will be back on tour in no time. Thanks Jon!
I bought some water (gallon) and a pop it was going to be a long day.
First the bike express which is two fold you can only board with bike at certain stations. Hence bike express, that and they allow lots of bikes in the bus. It costs an extra 2 bucks. One ride back up hill please?
I myself locked my bike and then took the another bus right after that. I arrived shortly and I was amazing how long it took me to cycle that. Even going down hill. The shoulder was huge, but debris and these drainage grates didn't help much.
I picked up my DvD and was off. I headed back to my bike in Basalt.
So know I could see the afternoon thunderstorms all black and foreboding.
I hopped on my bike and was doing about 30 with tail winds and the hill. A lady playfully stuck out her thumb as she waited for the bus. I was like right on as I zoomed past. The rain started and I kept a 27 mph pace trying desperately to get ahead until I have shelter. A few drops of cold reminders helped immensely. Just as I thought I would need to buckle down, I broke ahead and then made it into Carbondale. The shoulder drops off for construction and I need to turn left. This is where I forced my way onto the highway. I had nothing else I could do those orange barrels were coming up fast. I got them to move over (fiercely signalling to try the second lane, and after about a hundred feet I was able to turn onto 133 now using the left lane and then turn lane at the stoplight. Of course more construction on the bridge so I just took the lane and finally made it into Carbondale.
I then went to the library to watch myself (DvD) and get out of the rain I stayed there about 2 hrs and the rain stopped.
I didn't do to bad, I had some errors. I found it hard to describe my route for some reason. I sputtered on a word and didn't use forest instead park.
I looked ok and my gear wasn't to bad, even though I just threw on the food I bought instead of packing it.
I took that time at the library to plan my route to Gunnison I figured 7 days maybe do some hiking in the black canyon recreation area.
So after that I charged my batteries read some news and looked at the Colorado gazette map.
Heading on out on 82 was torn apart, but they did have a bike path. I kept to the road as I tend to find them hard to navigate with a trailer and in general. They really like using roundabouts here in central CO about time we demanded more from drivers.
I went by the airport totally forgetting to stop. Maybe it was that big downhill, the traffic, planes, or too focused. I missed my chance. 82 is a four lane highway with stoplights (freeway)
The Airport sits alongside 82. I was watching a couple planes take off over head. They use the right lane as the HOV not sure how that works. This allows a bus easy access to the bus stops along the road. Weird to have bus stops along the rural freeway. So I am going down hill to Basalt I would reach 6800 feet by the time I was down in Carbondale. A nice 3000 foot plug. I reached Basalt and ordered Subway my first fast food since Rawlins WY. Lovely tuna and veggies.
I checked my messages and I see plum "Ben's big bike ride".
Wow that was fast! I only now needed to go back and retrieve my gift. No problem there hop on the bus and I will be back on tour in no time. Thanks Jon!
I bought some water (gallon) and a pop it was going to be a long day.
First the bike express which is two fold you can only board with bike at certain stations. Hence bike express, that and they allow lots of bikes in the bus. It costs an extra 2 bucks. One ride back up hill please?
I myself locked my bike and then took the another bus right after that. I arrived shortly and I was amazing how long it took me to cycle that. Even going down hill. The shoulder was huge, but debris and these drainage grates didn't help much.
I picked up my DvD and was off. I headed back to my bike in Basalt.
So know I could see the afternoon thunderstorms all black and foreboding.
I hopped on my bike and was doing about 30 with tail winds and the hill. A lady playfully stuck out her thumb as she waited for the bus. I was like right on as I zoomed past. The rain started and I kept a 27 mph pace trying desperately to get ahead until I have shelter. A few drops of cold reminders helped immensely. Just as I thought I would need to buckle down, I broke ahead and then made it into Carbondale. The shoulder drops off for construction and I need to turn left. This is where I forced my way onto the highway. I had nothing else I could do those orange barrels were coming up fast. I got them to move over (fiercely signalling to try the second lane, and after about a hundred feet I was able to turn onto 133 now using the left lane and then turn lane at the stoplight. Of course more construction on the bridge so I just took the lane and finally made it into Carbondale.
I then went to the library to watch myself (DvD) and get out of the rain I stayed there about 2 hrs and the rain stopped.
I didn't do to bad, I had some errors. I found it hard to describe my route for some reason. I sputtered on a word and didn't use forest instead park.
I looked ok and my gear wasn't to bad, even though I just threw on the food I bought instead of packing it.
I couldn't believe that was two mins seemed really short. Brandon did a great job pulling it all together.
After leaving this old town lined with the victorian facades and ped friendly layout. I headed over to get the last of my food and head out.
I ate a cinnamon roll, deli fries, 3 string cheeses, and had some rasions.
Now being night time I headed out for a three hour tour. This is known as the west elk scenic route. On Friday and Saturday I was on the Top of the Rockies route. For obvious reasons. My days went like this. Friday I went down and then up, on Saturday I went up, down, and up, on Monday I went down, and Tuesday I went up and Wed went down into Hotchkiss. We are talking about climb and descents of more than 1500 feet and up to 4000 feet.
133 had a 14 foot lane which was really nice now in the dark. My light finally died and I put fresh batteries. As you can tell I hate night riding. I want to see things. This was my second set of batteries. Yet I was in the forbidden zone of camping. After around 10 miles of cycling in the void I saw the White River Forest. Yet it was an illusion. For starters no camping withing 1/4 mile from Crystal River. Um I am in a valley with the river right next to me. Of course you could live within 1/4 mile. As I continually seen mailboxes. All of the roads in the forest were named. Until I got on top of Mclures pass were no one wanted to live all of a sudden I am at 517. Still even named Hunters Ridge. At least this was signed. Never saw 313 or 317, yet I could see a dark forest sign.
Another ruse to keep you away?
The forest that never was a forest until you got to an unpopular spot high above the valley where they close the road in winter at times.
Forced to play a hand I saw falling rock next 13 miles.
This means scenic and more importantly your last chance to find level ground. With out knowing, this is what the sign says to me.
I then found a wash or an inlet on Monday late night that would take me back a 100 feet. This ladies and gentleman is the proper distance from any water source or trail. Not some phony 1/4 mi. to keep people away. I looked for signs of recent activity, it would funnel right onto the road, pine cones and needles would be washed away, and it did rain yet no stream.
I did a 180 and propped my bike up against a tree. Almost turning my ankle in the process on a loose rock the size of a large potato.
I then found a safer place for me. I took my tarp and sleeping bag and found some level ground. Most likely a pond formation.
I got a whopping 4 hours of sleep and my body revolted at the thought of waking up to cycle. All those mailboxes would be coming to work. So they could collect some mail in the forest.
I woke up about 5 mins before the alarm (445) I got up strapped my gear on and slowly started out. The success of highbeamers in Co so far has been 20 % fail rate much better than Utah's 90%.
The sun started to break the overcast which kept me moist and semi warm from the late night chill. Light gave way and I made it into Redstone. Which like the name is in a Red Canyon. Which I can now see. I also looked at the Coke ovens which processed coal. Of course some how they managed not to let you near them, as though they were going to start up the operation tomorrow, and any my neglect (misuse) would send then into decay.
Yeah right.
So off I went, I met for the third day in a row a lone female cyclist riding off to some destination or passing me.
I then continued it looked like the road was going down hill and the river going up. The Crystal river was raging with all the glory.
I then saw my pass Mclures pass. Only 8768 Feet yet it proved steep and viscous. 3 miles of ouch and slowness.
Still a nice wide lane though.
I made it to the top and crashed sleeping that was. Receiving the sleep I needed I woke up and gorged on gronola bars, apricots, chicken, OJ, and cranberries. I found a stream nearby to act as a refrigerator for my Milk and OJ. Tonight I will gorge again. A nice easy day. More of a staging point. Not many places to sleep ahead of me.
An extra ten miles and a 2000 foot climb and some rest will help erase some of that. I will most likely try to squeeze a little father ahead. Knowing I can turn around I still have some climbing to do.
I stayed where I was, and it proved the right thing to do as there wasn't any more camping further than a mile.
At any rate there is this town called marble which harvests Marble ha! They built the Tomb of the unknown soldier. Lincoln , and the Denver Capital. Now defunct it was suppose to be really good marble.
I stayed there the night no rain only a sprinkle. I still put my gear in my tent.
I had a tomato, chicken, gronola bars, and apircots.
I started reading Tai- Pan which is taken from the 1850s wow and neat.
I woke up a little later on Tuesday ha! 630 this time put my gear on and headed out. I still had the crown of the hill so I walked a little ways and got on my bike.
I then went about 2000 feet and was in the Gunnison National Forest this was short lived.
I would descend 3000 feet making it to Hotchkiss. I had some good runs topping out at 38 miles one time. First I was in the valley for about 3 hours. Poania lake was beautiful as I winded my through the valley. It was a man made lake with an earthen dam. With cliffs on my right side and the lake on the left. The shoulder became 6 feet after the lake, with a rumble strip. Of course debris would make it horrible. I crossed the north fork of Gunnison river and entered the coal towns.
I passed by the coal towns of Somerset and Bowie. At the time coal was being loaded one car at a time.
I then made it about 12 miles out of Hotchkiss and I got no shoulder WTF? The drivers made up for the lack of shoulder. I then saw Paonia which placed a P in white along a hill. This is common in Utah towns.
They had fruit orchards and wine. I wasn't into wine tasting.
Now rolling hills greeted me outside the valley from the 12 mi mark. Up and down how tired are you?
It was getting hotter dropping below 6000 feet. I reached Hotchkiss yet no cell bummer. I went through the downtown and doubled back to the closed museum and then found the fairgrounds. This would be the closest fairgrounds to the city I have seen/been yet.
The town boasted a food store and hardware store that was about it for coperate america. Mostly home town business.
My first time below 6000 feet in a long time. Hot and 87.
I would of course be going uphill after I left this town. The clouds don't looks so friendly where I came from. Hope that is going away from me. I already have 40 miles and need another 20. Good thing I rested. This is a nasty stretch of don't camp here.
The fairgrounds did have water and I was debating if I want to go to the food store.
After checking things out things out they allow camping for 3 dollars. I was all over that, restrooms, water, picnic tables, and electricity. Some people charge 15 dollars and don't even provide water. I then ate some canned pasta, green beans, apricots, and a couple of PB tortillas for my lunch. I then rested a bit. Noticing the rain I hit the library to update my blog and wait for the rain to end. I manage to hit this on the right day as they are open late. It was nice and chilly from the soaring heat. You have to love your library.
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile
Monday, July 21, 2008
I had to first hike down which literally I hiked downhill. I got in and then went dowhill some more CO has been the only state that I have had construction zones.
Well I woke up early and headed into Aspen freezin my assen. I hung onto the cliff at times one lane roads and of course narrow as can be other times.
It was gorgeous going through the valley.
Upon reaching the beatiful town of aspen I got some more food. Then I was kinda lost, but the food store had maps. So now I am trying find the laundromat which I will just forget about considering it most likely expensive right in the downtown area.
So I am going through this ped mall. And plum tv wants to interview me.
Wholly crap I am gonna be on tv. I wasn't ready for this. I could barely contain myself. They were doing man on the street. Brandon starts talking as the camera counts "3, 2,1 "
"Welcome back we have ben here from Phoenix"
I was like wholly crap. I had some many things I need to look at my hair, my gear, and a shave.
I got so nervous I forgot how many days I was on tour considering my last post Dang!
I talk about how I get library books.
I took off my geeky gear.
I still am trmbling a bit.
It happened so fast I was like holly crap what do I say.
Wow
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile
Well I woke up early and headed into Aspen freezin my assen. I hung onto the cliff at times one lane roads and of course narrow as can be other times.
It was gorgeous going through the valley.
Upon reaching the beatiful town of aspen I got some more food. Then I was kinda lost, but the food store had maps. So now I am trying find the laundromat which I will just forget about considering it most likely expensive right in the downtown area.
So I am going through this ped mall. And plum tv wants to interview me.
Wholly crap I am gonna be on tv. I wasn't ready for this. I could barely contain myself. They were doing man on the street. Brandon starts talking as the camera counts "3, 2,1 "
"Welcome back we have ben here from Phoenix"
I was like wholly crap. I had some many things I need to look at my hair, my gear, and a shave.
I got so nervous I forgot how many days I was on tour considering my last post Dang!
I talk about how I get library books.
I took off my geeky gear.
I still am trmbling a bit.
It happened so fast I was like holly crap what do I say.
Wow
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile
After spending the night at Hale I departed early at 700 hours. I was packing my gear up when, a guy pulled up in his car hopped out and was in an army uniform. He wanted directions to the bow hunting thing how ironic defunct army base.
I have seen lots of wildlife over the last couple days, porcupine, ram, fox, a dozen dear allotted together not all at once, beaver, and chipmunks.
I was at 9200 feet they call it Pando valley. Right after leaving the valley I climbed Tennessee pass 10400 feet. 5 miles. My first crossing of the great divide.
A bicycle lady passed me going double the speed. I also talked to Jeff my first ped I saw on my trip. He camped at Hale also. Some nice people left some water for cyclists about the same time I saw Jeff. We talked briefly he and I strode up the pass. He came from Copper Mt. He was a fast hiker. He went over another pass to get to Hale and I took the longer way a road.
I soon figured out this was a popular bicycle loop route considering you can take 91 and 24 giving you a century. Or close. Lots of roadies.
There was a construction zone and we had to wait with the flag man. MT Albert at 14443 feet is the highest of the 48 states. I looked on.
As we were getting ready to leave I got handed a stake which would make me the last person in line. When I got there I moved over so the waiting oncoming traffic could use the one lane.
I took a short break and talked with Ma her son was the flaggman and her daughter was another flagwoman. She was the one who told me about Albert. Kinda weird standing in the oncoming lane with a line of cars in front of you. After that it was a small lane with a big dirt patch people had to plow over this to pass me ha!
Finally a way to slow them down.
I got into Leadville after one more hill at 10200 feet it made me lethargic. I was going to the minning museum until they said 7 bucks. Sure not only do they exploit earth they also exploit people. I got back on my bike previously I went to a food store to pick up some milk a few items. I left to go look at the forest ranger station but it was closed on Sat. I left Leadville. It was a nice long downhill run with the Arkansas river by my side. This also was the head waters for it.
I then exited on 82 to Aspen. First 6 miles to Twin Lakes city and $ 2.34 a litter of water. I then went over to the visitor center and found my camping spot. I then headed out to Independence pass I was noticing some black clouds behind me due to Massive MT I thought I could beat it and then with the sun shinning a sprinkle which turned into a 30 min down pour. I found a trail head and covered my bike with the tarp, then I took shelter in a mass of evergreens. The clouds soon broke and I was heading for the sunshine.
Which never left my view. I then reached the pass and started climbing. The pass was brutal and cold with snow all around me. It felt as though I was in a refrigerator.
I climbed the pass making two continental divide crossings in one day.
I stopped at the scenic overlook at found a spot to put my tent up. I was going to push the issue, if someone wants me to move then so be it. I woke up around and waited with the sunrise at 12000 feet. It felt a lot warmer now for some reason. I don't even see my breath. I left the rain fly off so the tent could dry off.
So with that this my rest day. I will once I can see head down to my forest road and make a new camp. I didn't quite make it last night.
My goal has been met. Today just sleep. Monday 15 miles to Aspen. Then another 30 to 133. My new extension is a lot of miles. So I want to push my self in the beginning. If I can knock out route 82 by the 21st of July. I will still have 15 days left. Roughly 300 miles left that should be easy if no problems arise. Who knows I still have one more extension option.
Which takes me through Pikes peak park. My last 6 days have been wonder full. Good thing I didn't just sit down in the forest and wilt.
I have seen lots of wildlife over the last couple days, porcupine, ram, fox, a dozen dear allotted together not all at once, beaver, and chipmunks.
I was at 9200 feet they call it Pando valley. Right after leaving the valley I climbed Tennessee pass 10400 feet. 5 miles. My first crossing of the great divide.
A bicycle lady passed me going double the speed. I also talked to Jeff my first ped I saw on my trip. He camped at Hale also. Some nice people left some water for cyclists about the same time I saw Jeff. We talked briefly he and I strode up the pass. He came from Copper Mt. He was a fast hiker. He went over another pass to get to Hale and I took the longer way a road.
I soon figured out this was a popular bicycle loop route considering you can take 91 and 24 giving you a century. Or close. Lots of roadies.
There was a construction zone and we had to wait with the flag man. MT Albert at 14443 feet is the highest of the 48 states. I looked on.
As we were getting ready to leave I got handed a stake which would make me the last person in line. When I got there I moved over so the waiting oncoming traffic could use the one lane.
I took a short break and talked with Ma her son was the flaggman and her daughter was another flagwoman. She was the one who told me about Albert. Kinda weird standing in the oncoming lane with a line of cars in front of you. After that it was a small lane with a big dirt patch people had to plow over this to pass me ha!
Finally a way to slow them down.
I got into Leadville after one more hill at 10200 feet it made me lethargic. I was going to the minning museum until they said 7 bucks. Sure not only do they exploit earth they also exploit people. I got back on my bike previously I went to a food store to pick up some milk a few items. I left to go look at the forest ranger station but it was closed on Sat. I left Leadville. It was a nice long downhill run with the Arkansas river by my side. This also was the head waters for it.
I then exited on 82 to Aspen. First 6 miles to Twin Lakes city and $ 2.34 a litter of water. I then went over to the visitor center and found my camping spot. I then headed out to Independence pass I was noticing some black clouds behind me due to Massive MT I thought I could beat it and then with the sun shinning a sprinkle which turned into a 30 min down pour. I found a trail head and covered my bike with the tarp, then I took shelter in a mass of evergreens. The clouds soon broke and I was heading for the sunshine.
Which never left my view. I then reached the pass and started climbing. The pass was brutal and cold with snow all around me. It felt as though I was in a refrigerator.
I climbed the pass making two continental divide crossings in one day.
I stopped at the scenic overlook at found a spot to put my tent up. I was going to push the issue, if someone wants me to move then so be it. I woke up around and waited with the sunrise at 12000 feet. It felt a lot warmer now for some reason. I don't even see my breath. I left the rain fly off so the tent could dry off.
So with that this my rest day. I will once I can see head down to my forest road and make a new camp. I didn't quite make it last night.
My goal has been met. Today just sleep. Monday 15 miles to Aspen. Then another 30 to 133. My new extension is a lot of miles. So I want to push my self in the beginning. If I can knock out route 82 by the 21st of July. I will still have 15 days left. Roughly 300 miles left that should be easy if no problems arise. Who knows I still have one more extension option.
Which takes me through Pikes peak park. My last 6 days have been wonder full. Good thing I didn't just sit down in the forest and wilt.
I woke up with sunrise well a little before on Sunday. This was my highest camp at 12000 feet. Having cycled for 10 hours on Saturday and then a short nap at night I was tired.
I have know added artic tundra to my list of environments.
It was like a stale air to cold to bring any more life than six inches of grass and flowers. The snow was still plenty which created small arctic pools.
After getting all the pictures I could take I mounted my bike and went over the top of the Independence pass. I found a nice water fall by mi. 60 (are everywhere) and collected some water. Then again gazed at the valley below for a few mins. I then continued to upper lost man trail. I decided to find something easier. So I went to Lower lost man trail. There I filtered 1.5 liters of water. Ate green beans, animal crackers, ramon noodles, cranberries, and had PB tortillas. My stash is getting low. Still have some food but need some more after my oatmeal spilled out in my panniers. I hope Aspen doesn't jack me on food.
After my huge feast I packed a small cache of food and got my hiking gear in order. I hiked about a half hour and found a spot over a dry ravine (hope it doesn't rain).
Level ground, 100 feet from a trail or water is very hard to find. Which is why I didn't do upper lost man.
Getting up so early made me sleepy so I went to bed and then read some of my novel.
I finished the Da Vinci code off my novel finished. Off PBs most of my animal crackers and raisins. The day was refreshing cool. With night fallen onto me I slipped on my warm gear and fell asleep at 10,000 feet.
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile
For the first time I counted how many days my tour is. I never wanted to be on a schedule. I was close and planned for lots of time as the extensions of my tour show. I wanted to see and experience my travels rather than merely pass them by.
83 days.
I am on my 66th day.
In a whirlwind of travel. I am lost into a world of my own. I still remember all those foolish things I did when first starting out. I have grown up a lot.
Now comming to a close this epic journey torn on wanting it to last and continuing with my old life. Questioning how things will change or remain the same as before as though on a different shore?
For now I can drown out these haunting answers with strokes of labor filling my days. No purpose other than to go forward with the next, nothing to stop my progress, and yet no destination needed to continue forth.
No success and no failure finds me, only personal conquests and mirrored smiles.
I have come to get lost in myself and found companionship. I have come to find peace where only modern sounds entrap me.
Is this the beginning in what I am about to end. Shall I find the answers resting on the deep bottoms?
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile
83 days.
I am on my 66th day.
In a whirlwind of travel. I am lost into a world of my own. I still remember all those foolish things I did when first starting out. I have grown up a lot.
Now comming to a close this epic journey torn on wanting it to last and continuing with my old life. Questioning how things will change or remain the same as before as though on a different shore?
For now I can drown out these haunting answers with strokes of labor filling my days. No purpose other than to go forward with the next, nothing to stop my progress, and yet no destination needed to continue forth.
No success and no failure finds me, only personal conquests and mirrored smiles.
I have come to get lost in myself and found companionship. I have come to find peace where only modern sounds entrap me.
Is this the beginning in what I am about to end. Shall I find the answers resting on the deep bottoms?
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)