Brent, Sandie and Morgan discussing good whiskey.
Lauren and Morgan at the top of the Rock.
Jeff showboating for Morgan's video camera.
Sandie, Lauren and Jeff at the top of the climb.
Rocks along the Flume, looking down on Lake Tahoe.
Virginia City hills, just before the bar fights start!
Jeff driving like a maniac down the mountain toward Carson City.
I’m a wheel, I’m a wheel
I can roll, I can feel
And you can’t stop me turning
cause I’m the sun, I’m the sun
I can move, I can run
But you’ll never stop me burning
This man has left the mountain. And the mountain has won again. To say the ride kicked my ass
is to disparage all good ass kicking. It handed me my hat, showed me the door and told me to go home and cry to my momma. And yet, it was one of the best days I have ever had in the saddle.
The back story to my back-side trouncing started last fall during our first Official Bloggers ride in the hills around Oakland. Jeff, Lauren, Smudgemo and I hatched the original ride when it was discovered that my wife Rene would be traveling for work to San Fran. We met up in Berkley and after a great breakfast, rode most of the day in Joaquin Miller Park. Afterwards, it was agreed we must meet again the following summer, this time, in Tahoe. Though sadly, Smudgemo could not make it to this years event, we did manage to find a big crew of riders. The group consisted of a number of Jeff’s friends from the local area as well as Lauren’s husband Morgan and two friends of Morgan’s from Oakland. 11 folks originally and as Sandie said, if we finish with 9.5, it was a successful ride!
Rene and I flew out on Thursday morning and arrived in Sacramento CA around noon. We decided to take a day there and see the city before heading up to Tahoe. It was a beautiful day and we visited the home of Goven-ator Arnold while taking a walking tour of town. That night we found a nice restaurant near the hotel with outside seating and enjoyed a great meal. We stayed up as late as we could that day to try to assimilate to West Coast time, eventually crashing after a long 22 hour day.
In the morning we grabbed a Starbuck’s and then headed for the hills. Jeff had mentioned the elevation around Tahoe but I actually thought he was kidding. Along the way out (about a 2 hour drive from Sacramento), I started to see elevation signs along the way which quickly shot up to 5,000 feet plus! It eventually topped out just over 7,000 feet in the town of Incline Village on the North western edge of Lake Tahoe. It is hard to describe how amazing the lake and the surrounding mountains are but it was impressive. We found the condo and quickly unpacked before heading out to meet up with Jeff and Kristy and Charlie for lunch. We stopped by the Flume Trail bike shop located in Spooner Lake Park, right at the foot of the trail system to check on my rental bike for the next day. And then it was off for a whirlwind tour of South Lake Tahoe with the Moser’s.
Jeff took us to a number of great places including the Emerald Bay State Park where we viewed the Vikingsholm and Tea House and the nature trails. Of course, we both just spent time taking pictures of each other!
I can roll, I can feel
And you can’t stop me turning
cause I’m the sun, I’m the sun
I can move, I can run
But you’ll never stop me burning
This man has left the mountain. And the mountain has won again. To say the ride kicked my ass
is to disparage all good ass kicking. It handed me my hat, showed me the door and told me to go home and cry to my momma. And yet, it was one of the best days I have ever had in the saddle.
The back story to my back-side trouncing started last fall during our first Official Bloggers ride in the hills around Oakland. Jeff, Lauren, Smudgemo and I hatched the original ride when it was discovered that my wife Rene would be traveling for work to San Fran. We met up in Berkley and after a great breakfast, rode most of the day in Joaquin Miller Park. Afterwards, it was agreed we must meet again the following summer, this time, in Tahoe. Though sadly, Smudgemo could not make it to this years event, we did manage to find a big crew of riders. The group consisted of a number of Jeff’s friends from the local area as well as Lauren’s husband Morgan and two friends of Morgan’s from Oakland. 11 folks originally and as Sandie said, if we finish with 9.5, it was a successful ride!
Rene and I flew out on Thursday morning and arrived in Sacramento CA around noon. We decided to take a day there and see the city before heading up to Tahoe. It was a beautiful day and we visited the home of Goven-ator Arnold while taking a walking tour of town. That night we found a nice restaurant near the hotel with outside seating and enjoyed a great meal. We stayed up as late as we could that day to try to assimilate to West Coast time, eventually crashing after a long 22 hour day.
In the morning we grabbed a Starbuck’s and then headed for the hills. Jeff had mentioned the elevation around Tahoe but I actually thought he was kidding. Along the way out (about a 2 hour drive from Sacramento), I started to see elevation signs along the way which quickly shot up to 5,000 feet plus! It eventually topped out just over 7,000 feet in the town of Incline Village on the North western edge of Lake Tahoe. It is hard to describe how amazing the lake and the surrounding mountains are but it was impressive. We found the condo and quickly unpacked before heading out to meet up with Jeff and Kristy and Charlie for lunch. We stopped by the Flume Trail bike shop located in Spooner Lake Park, right at the foot of the trail system to check on my rental bike for the next day. And then it was off for a whirlwind tour of South Lake Tahoe with the Moser’s.
Jeff took us to a number of great places including the Emerald Bay State Park where we viewed the Vikingsholm and Tea House and the nature trails. Of course, we both just spent time taking pictures of each other!
And then it was off to the Kingsbury Grade and down into Nevada to visit Carson City.
After a quick spin through town, we headed over to the Moser Estate where Jeff showed off his sprawling gardens and even more impressive bike storage facility! To see the Yute in person is really not to be missed!
After a quick spin through town, we headed over to the Moser Estate where Jeff showed off his sprawling gardens and even more impressive bike storage facility! To see the Yute in person is really not to be missed!
Jeff and Kristy and Charlie took us out to see the Bunny Ranch (they insisted we see it!) and then on to what appeared to be a Hollywood western movie set but was actually a town called Virginia City. There we had a great dinner at Del Rios (along with my first Black Butte Porter!) before heading back to Casa Moser. Along the way we were ambushed by some armed desperado's who took all of our silver and gold (and lupines!) before riding off into the surrounding black hills. Actually, we sat for over 20 minutes waiting for the local authorities to clean up after a biker crash.
We headed back to Incline Village and a good night’s sleep before the big ride on Saturday. Lauren and Morgan arrived around noon that day and after dropping their bags at the Condo, we headed out to meet the others at the trail head. Rene spent the day slaving over a hot stove preparing our post-ride Mexican feast! Just kidding; sort of. After a round of introductions and the securing of my rental bike, we were off to the trail. Trails here in Michigan do not feature much in the way of elevation change. Typically, it is a series of rollers, with a climb immediately followed by a decent. Not here. From the first wheel off the pavement, the trail started climbing. And climbing. And then, it continued up. For 4 miles. There, we took a break and at that point, I actually thought I could cut it. And then Morgan mentioned that the next section was a bit steeper. More climbing? Oh, yeah. Two more miles. Needless to say, I had to bail about half way and walk the last section. So, here we are at 6 miles in and I am walking already.
From that point, the trail ran back down for a mile until turning sharply into the reservoir and into the first section of the Flume Trail. This is section I loved the most. Flat or mostly flat it runs along the perimeter of the mountainside, directly above the west shoreline of Lake Tahoe. To say the views are awesome is an understatement! Needless to say, we stopped a number of times to take pictures and jaw a bit, but eventually, this section came to an end. There we re-grouped and then headed into the next section, the Tahoe Rim Trail. Again with the climbing. Another mile of up. And then, it went up again. Now on single track, the trail runs back and forth along the edge of the mountain, virtually always uphill. This is where my fun in the saddle came to an end. Not only was I starting to feel the effects of elevation, but I was also not keeping up on nutrition and water. Both conspired against me and I lost energy fast. That combined with a very tricky trail (sharp rocks!), I had to bail numerous times and walk. This section seemed to go on forever and it was frustrating to only ride a small portion.
The rim trail eventually leads out of the woods near the summit to an open field where the views are unbelievable. It feels like your on top of world and at 8,400+ feet, you are close to it. There we hung out for awhile enjoying the beauty, taking more pictures and even enjoying a shot of whiskey, courtesy of Morgan. After a final group picture (see Jeff’s photos on flickr) we started our decent. And stupid me, I had my front shock locked out! The trail was so steep, rocky and fast there was no taking your hands off the bar for a second. I found a small level section, switched it out and then proceeded with the bomber run. This downhill went on forever, eventually leading back to the location where we had crossed the reservoir before heading back up one more climb.
At this point, there was nothing left in the tank and after riding a small portion of the climb, I wussed out and walked the rest of the way. Others there offered me gels and gummy bears and bars but I was so surly from the lack of water and food, I just yelled at them to leave me alone and started sobbing! Okay, I’m kidding about yelling.
The last section was the same first 6 mile section we had climbed at the end of the day. Thank God! Almost all downhill back to the cars. Never loved gravity more than that moment. We eventually rolled into the parking lot and I hustled over to the bike shop to drop my rig before rejoining the group. They were all talking and laughing and sharing a beer but I was weaving around like Sean Penn in Dead Man Walking! Slurring words and staring off into space, the days 22+ miles were hitting me hard. We finally said our goodbyes and then jumped in the truck for the ride back to the Condo.
After some much needed water, a little scrubbing and couple taco chips, I was starting to return to semi-normal. Rene had just finished up an amazing pile of burritos and guacamole and we all dived in. That combined with a couple New Belgiums and I was finally back in my happy place! Jeff, Kristy, Lauren, Morgan, Rene and I had a great evening of conversation and food and drink and I did not want it to end. But the Moser’s had little ones to attend to back home (dogs), so Rene made them a goodie bag and sent them on their way. Lauren and Morgan were staying with us that night and we all tried desperately to stay up and continue our discussions. Needless to say, it was a losing battle!
The next morning, Morgan was slated to head out and meet up with some friends for more riding, but thanks to my sobbing and wailing, he was convinced to stay and hang out with us for the day! We finished off a pizza, a pie, a roast-beast sandwich (with horseradish) and numerous bottles of water while chatting the day away. It was finally time for them to head home and we were shortly behind them, heading back to Sacramento for the final night. We checked in about 6 in the afternoon and the heatwave in the valley had reached 114 degrees! Do not let anyone sell you on that b.s. about it being “a dry heat”. It was a freaking oven outside! I do not think I have ever been in hotter weather. To survive it, Rene and I ducked into the same restaurant we had visited the first night but this time, stayed inside for dinner. And a couple gin and tonics (they had Hendricks!).
The next day we left CA around noon and went from 108 degrees to 63 upon landing in GR! And the cool air actually felt good. I have to say, this was one of the best trips we have ever taken. Not only was Tahoe an amazing place and the trail riding unbelievable, but the best part was the people who shared the experience with us. Thank you for everything. I cannot wait to get out there again and enjoy another ride.
Or just a beer and good conversation.
In fact, if anyone wants to skip the ride next time and just enjoy the beer, I am good with that too. Have a great 4th of July!!
We headed back to Incline Village and a good night’s sleep before the big ride on Saturday. Lauren and Morgan arrived around noon that day and after dropping their bags at the Condo, we headed out to meet the others at the trail head. Rene spent the day slaving over a hot stove preparing our post-ride Mexican feast! Just kidding; sort of. After a round of introductions and the securing of my rental bike, we were off to the trail. Trails here in Michigan do not feature much in the way of elevation change. Typically, it is a series of rollers, with a climb immediately followed by a decent. Not here. From the first wheel off the pavement, the trail started climbing. And climbing. And then, it continued up. For 4 miles. There, we took a break and at that point, I actually thought I could cut it. And then Morgan mentioned that the next section was a bit steeper. More climbing? Oh, yeah. Two more miles. Needless to say, I had to bail about half way and walk the last section. So, here we are at 6 miles in and I am walking already.
From that point, the trail ran back down for a mile until turning sharply into the reservoir and into the first section of the Flume Trail. This is section I loved the most. Flat or mostly flat it runs along the perimeter of the mountainside, directly above the west shoreline of Lake Tahoe. To say the views are awesome is an understatement! Needless to say, we stopped a number of times to take pictures and jaw a bit, but eventually, this section came to an end. There we re-grouped and then headed into the next section, the Tahoe Rim Trail. Again with the climbing. Another mile of up. And then, it went up again. Now on single track, the trail runs back and forth along the edge of the mountain, virtually always uphill. This is where my fun in the saddle came to an end. Not only was I starting to feel the effects of elevation, but I was also not keeping up on nutrition and water. Both conspired against me and I lost energy fast. That combined with a very tricky trail (sharp rocks!), I had to bail numerous times and walk. This section seemed to go on forever and it was frustrating to only ride a small portion.
The rim trail eventually leads out of the woods near the summit to an open field where the views are unbelievable. It feels like your on top of world and at 8,400+ feet, you are close to it. There we hung out for awhile enjoying the beauty, taking more pictures and even enjoying a shot of whiskey, courtesy of Morgan. After a final group picture (see Jeff’s photos on flickr) we started our decent. And stupid me, I had my front shock locked out! The trail was so steep, rocky and fast there was no taking your hands off the bar for a second. I found a small level section, switched it out and then proceeded with the bomber run. This downhill went on forever, eventually leading back to the location where we had crossed the reservoir before heading back up one more climb.
At this point, there was nothing left in the tank and after riding a small portion of the climb, I wussed out and walked the rest of the way. Others there offered me gels and gummy bears and bars but I was so surly from the lack of water and food, I just yelled at them to leave me alone and started sobbing! Okay, I’m kidding about yelling.
The last section was the same first 6 mile section we had climbed at the end of the day. Thank God! Almost all downhill back to the cars. Never loved gravity more than that moment. We eventually rolled into the parking lot and I hustled over to the bike shop to drop my rig before rejoining the group. They were all talking and laughing and sharing a beer but I was weaving around like Sean Penn in Dead Man Walking! Slurring words and staring off into space, the days 22+ miles were hitting me hard. We finally said our goodbyes and then jumped in the truck for the ride back to the Condo.
After some much needed water, a little scrubbing and couple taco chips, I was starting to return to semi-normal. Rene had just finished up an amazing pile of burritos and guacamole and we all dived in. That combined with a couple New Belgiums and I was finally back in my happy place! Jeff, Kristy, Lauren, Morgan, Rene and I had a great evening of conversation and food and drink and I did not want it to end. But the Moser’s had little ones to attend to back home (dogs), so Rene made them a goodie bag and sent them on their way. Lauren and Morgan were staying with us that night and we all tried desperately to stay up and continue our discussions. Needless to say, it was a losing battle!
The next morning, Morgan was slated to head out and meet up with some friends for more riding, but thanks to my sobbing and wailing, he was convinced to stay and hang out with us for the day! We finished off a pizza, a pie, a roast-beast sandwich (with horseradish) and numerous bottles of water while chatting the day away. It was finally time for them to head home and we were shortly behind them, heading back to Sacramento for the final night. We checked in about 6 in the afternoon and the heatwave in the valley had reached 114 degrees! Do not let anyone sell you on that b.s. about it being “a dry heat”. It was a freaking oven outside! I do not think I have ever been in hotter weather. To survive it, Rene and I ducked into the same restaurant we had visited the first night but this time, stayed inside for dinner. And a couple gin and tonics (they had Hendricks!).
The next day we left CA around noon and went from 108 degrees to 63 upon landing in GR! And the cool air actually felt good. I have to say, this was one of the best trips we have ever taken. Not only was Tahoe an amazing place and the trail riding unbelievable, but the best part was the people who shared the experience with us. Thank you for everything. I cannot wait to get out there again and enjoy another ride.
Or just a beer and good conversation.
In fact, if anyone wants to skip the ride next time and just enjoy the beer, I am good with that too. Have a great 4th of July!!
7 comments:
We barely scratched the surface of Tahoe riding, so there's plenty more to do when you come back. I was also bummed you didn't get to see our Carson trails, but we'll save that for next time too.
You guys had whiskey?
I wish we could have. Would have been fun to do a lunch ride!
I'll be back. Hopefully, sooner than later.
Hella Whiskey! Morgan brought his flask and we did a shot. I had to be drunk to do that downhill at the end!
Thanks for posting the sunny photos... I assume it was summer out there... very unlike MICHIGAN right now? :)
wow! sounds like you had a great time out west.
the arizona heat was only 112 and it was dry. lol. whatever. actually, below 110 wasn't all that bad but 111 and above was torture. i'm glad that we missed the midwest heat while we were gone. i hear it was near 100 with some pretty good humidity here. yukk!
have a great 4th!
Ali: It is ALWAYS sunny out there! Had to come back to the midwest to find clouds. It has been pretty gloomy since we came back but today looks good. We have to take the good when we get it here!
Blue: I couldn't believe the temp when i saw it on the dashboard! It was heavy heat. But your right, we had some wet and nasty stuff here too while you were gone. Glad that is over. Looks like it will be a great weather weekend for the 4th! Hope you and yours have a good one too!
P.S. Moser's coming out here today! Will be here all week visiting relatives. Should be able to get at least one ride in during that time.
Some random thoughts:
1. Sorry I missed out on an awesome ride. This is the last year I'm doing major home projects. Next year I'm riding more.
2. Don't feel bad that they broke you. Altitude and sustained climbs are acquired tastes. And I believe I warned you about hydrating (personal experience.) A good sunscreen will also help.
3. Yes, six-mile climbs are pretty common here out west. You eventually decide to live with it or shuttle.
4. You couldn't pay me to live in the valley. Include a ton of air pollution to the Baker's Pride temperatures, and you've got a wonderful mix of reasons to not ride your bike most of the summer.
5. Keep me in the loop for future trips. I promise I'll get away next time.
Was that corn "headset high by the 4th of July?"
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