I Need a Little Time
Five of my last seven rides were on the ROAD. Mind you, I love being on two wheels, skinny or FAT, but I get the most joy on singletrack, in the mountains, away from it all.
Wednesday was my only shot this week to stretch my mountain legs after all that road riding. My choice of trail was driven by want for adventure, solitude and a good climb. When I need these three in excess, I head for West South Mountain.
Ranger >> National West >> Gila West >> Bees >> Gila View >> National >> Ran out of Light Road to the Car.
West South Mountain at EveryTrail
Gorgeous trail, nary a soul out west. Powered by Clif Bars, Shot Bloks and Nuun, I reacquainted myself with good old fashioned Arizona desert. Sunset over the Estrellas atop Gila View was the highlight of the ride.
It doesn’t get better than springtime in the desert.
Yes, whatever it’s called indeed. Gila View seems to be the official “unofficial” name. We should name it Goliath.
I actually love attempting the climb up. I think I like it so much because it feels unattainable looking at it from below. It’s challenge after challenge. I HAB quite a bit, but only after i get bucked.
The switchbacks make Toms Thumb look like a kiddie trail. Give it a shot. It’s addicting.
So, how was the climb up Gila View/620/Marker 33, or whatever its called? I came down it a few weeks ago, and that was pretty wild. Couldn’t imagine going back up. Big climb indeed!
It’s great having those new trails out west as an option. More people are findinG them but you can still ride or hike for miles some times without seeing a sole.