A great way to start the first mile of your bikepacking trip with your favorite Arizona bikepacking crew...
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Add some record high temperatures and you might just bail. The Florence weather was 98 degrees as we were making our turn on to the Diversion Dam Rd.
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The heat did cause a few stumbling blocks, like we had to leave later in the day. That meant less riding. That said, it turned out to be a great decision because we arrived at Area 52 with some of the best lighting ever.
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Each time I ride out here, I always mumble the same two things: this place is going to be one day famous and why is that I only visit this place twice a year!?
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Next three photos by Scott Morris
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We found a good path that I had never taken down the east side of the mesa. While stepping up to a small lip, I encountered this guy ready to strike.
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Truth be told, I did scream a little bit when I first saw it. Although it was not really close, it’s rattle was going as I was focusing on the move to get up the lip.
We drifted off to the top of Ripsey to set up camp when some amazing lighting really set the mood. I am not sure what it really is about sunsets, but the more I ride a bike the more I can truly appreciate what the sun does every morning and night.
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It’s the kind of things you hope for when you are packing your bags…You often find yourself wishing for fun singletrack, gorgeous sunsets, good company and hot food. I was lacking on the last as I watched Scott cook his food that night.
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I really need to think about bringing better food on these trips. Day 2 tomorrow.
1 comment:
Hi. Just wanted to let you know how much I enjoy your posts and photos. Keep up the great work.
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