Ok, It is my first time at Deer Creek Canyon Open space and I allowed myself to fail before reaching my goal. Featured photo is the uphill trail view and it went on like this much further that I would have imaged. Looking towards the top, I saw wooden stairs and questioned if I read the map correctly about it being a black run. It was in a dark gully with rock slops on either side. Looking behind I grew concerned about being able to descend while riding. I did not have the usual Sunday vinegar in me and returned prior to aforementioned high stairs.
Several people on the way up said I was brave. I told them that I’m beginning to think I was stupid. So many ways to fail in your head.
Amazingly, and with great revel, I found the studded Fat tires performed magnificently and I never skidded on the way down. I descended down and over large logs, mostly ice and snow, and plenty of sharp large rocks designed to ruin your alignment or rear derailleur.
The studded Terrene Fat tires really impressed me and allow an descent that felt sure and safe. As I have found on most new trails I visit, the downhill is always minutes instead of the perceived hours it will take.
I just need to find a way to advance uphill on these trails. I was surprise at the leg strength and good breathing after a week at 10,500 altitude in Leadville. I walked up too much of this trail, and mostly due to the many logs on the trail to manage the water drainage.
I will return.
Needing more after this somewhat disappointment, I drove to Hildebrand just down the road and did the 2 Brands loop in clockwise motion. I have determined this is my approach as the climb is not as steep and gets the ride started on a scenic foot. I love this trail and only wish it was twice the current length. It was intentional to ride the Deer Creek Canyon ride and Hildebrand Ranch ride. They are less than a mile apart, and perfect examples of foothills terrain in Colorado.
I was very close to bagging on any riding today. And as always, I am very glad to have competed what I did with satisfaction. The best rides have a small and measured amount of risk and excitement. To this end, the ride was successful.
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TUNAGE: Motley Cru, Dream Theatre
CONDITIONS: Warm at the start but cold and cloudy by the end of the ride.
GEAR: Minimal since I am familiar with the trails. Deer Creek Canyon has a hug parking lot and lot of people hiking. Good cell service since along the foothills to Denver.
TEMP: start was around 40F, end of day around 30F
NOTES: The Deer Creek Canyon Park trail was very popular and many hikers, families with dogs. Not all trails open to bikes. The one allowed going south was a main trail, but it was very steep, rocky and icy. I went vertical much farther than I expected.
Most of the uphill terrain along the canyon channel was shaded and covered in snow and ice. Many hikers where surprised by it and struggled up and down without ice ‘crampons’.
Tomorrow, ride up in Loveland to ride the Devil’s Backbone trails.
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