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It was about 2 months ago that I was at this sign post. That night it was -7 degrees and over a foot of snow. Now with the Spring thaw in full swing the trail has a bit of different look and feel to it.
On the way out from the trailhead I encountered extreme mud and ice. There were sections that I had to slog through mud and water and push the Pugsley. I still have the studded tires on the bike. There were also sections of ice that were rideable and the studs were required. Once again the ride started out in the late sun of the afternoon and ended with the headlamps and dark ride back to the truck. Good Times!!
I never get tired of witnessing a sundown in the country.
This is a section of the river valley that I have been riding and exploring for the past 35 years. Back in the late 70's it was on my enduro motorcycles. Then as they closed sections to summer motorized travel, the river valley is still open to snowmobiles in the winter, I began riding mountain bikes. I have been drawn to the banks of the river because of the diversity of the terrain and as the seasons change the challenges of the travel.
As we pedaled along the river a pair of Bald Eagles flew past us and headed up river. It was then that I noticed the Eagle nest across the river high in a tree. Always something new to observe.
Yours truly, hammering the Spring mud on the Surly Pugsley with the full pack.
Navigating a water crossing in the dark under an old railroad bridge, it was a deep one. 2 1/2 - 3 feet deep. The best part of this crossing was that the bottom was solid and I just powered through it. I've seen it deeper here in the past.
Back at the truck after a very good mountain bike ride. Mud and weeds hangin' from the Pug, it was an adventure. It wasn't easy, that was the good part.
With a Spring ride like this, it had a bit of everything. Mud, ice and water. Each ride along the river provides a challenge depending on the season and the weather conditions. That is what keeps me coming back for over 30 years. One has to at times look around and realize that there are opportunities to have an adventure close to home.
Studs
Ride On!!
Snowboarding Season Continues in Minnesota
With a 2 day week-end, I have been splitting between mountain biking and snowboarding. With a good old time winter here in Minnesota the snow is still here on the ski resorts hills.
As I was riding the chairlift, I saw what the gold chair was all about. It had the date of the first year for Afton Alps December 1963, 50 years ago...Wow!
With temps in the 50's the snow was good the carve around in. Many people can't wait for the next season, Spring to happen. I don't wish my life away. It is best to live in the moment and make the most of the weather and conditions that are happening in front of me.
Tomorrow looks like a day on the slopes, snowboarding and enjoying the warm weather on soft Spring snow.
Carve ON!!
