07 October 2014

Stardate 2014.767

Durango, Colorado

Fort Lewis College Cycling

This year's pilgrimage to the far southwest reaches of Colorado's colorful leaf pageant also included two bike rides. The main ride was a sanctioned tour of the Durango area to make money for the Fort Lewis College cycling team. They consistently are one of the top-ranked collegiate teams in the states. The other ride was a "feather in our cap" ride up the steep roadway of Chapin Mesa, Mesa Verde National Park.

Chapin Mesa, Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado

The ride up Chapin Mesa was a good grunt. One could make a very long day visiting all the ruins by bike. On the other hand, I don't think a day would be enough. It's 21 miles from the entrance to where the ruins are first encountered.

Chapin Mesa, Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado

Snowcatcher took along Cinnamon, whom had been itching to get out.

Durango, Colorado

The following Saturday morning was the Durango Fall Blaze.

Durango, Colorado

The narrow gauge railroad is always a delight to encounter. Chun ka, chun ka, chun ka, chun ka wooo-wooooooo...

Durango, Colorado

This is a part of the state you just have to visit to get a feel for. It's an enchanted region.

Durango, Colorado

The first leg of the climb is up Highway 550. Yes, it's steep in places.

Durango, Colorado

Then the route drops off of Highway 550 to the Animas River bottom for a scenic jaunt downriver past cool swimming holes...

Durango, Colorado

And down pine-lined roadway...

Durango, Colorado

Traffic is minimal, so it's easy to ham it up! This year we rode the 35-mile loop. In most years we opt for the 65-mile loop. I've ridden the 100-mile loop as well. It's a good time.

Adios

2 comments:

  1. Sigh... this great trip was over way too quick. I really loved riding Durango alongside you this year. That was a superb treat!

    ReplyDelete
  2. Climb, Snowcatcher, climb! :)

    That water looks so beautifully cold and blue. What a gorgeous area - you guys are lucky to be able to ride there.

    ReplyDelete

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