October 30, 2005
Armstrong Pass to Toads - Grippy Snow and Fast Dirt on a Fall Classic
Joe, Paul, Toby, Buddy, James, Matt and Brian
Autumn snow on the Rim Trail between Armstrong Pass and Saxon Creek.
Paul and I always try to pull off one long mountain bike ride each year, and they usually get pushed back all summer and eventually take place sometime in the Fall. This year we found out we may have pushed it just a bit too far, as the cold skies had already deposited a thin layer of dry and grippy snow on the high country around Tahoe. Because we like big climbs (Paul) and big descents (me) we inevitably were bound to end up on the Rim Trail, and as a result, in the snow. I hadn't ridden in the snow for any big distance before this ride, and was skeptical as to how difficult and passable it would be. It turned out to be a nice challenging experience with confidence and skill gained with each successful pedal stroke and upright turn.
Long time childhood bro, James, his brother Matt, and friend Brian were up for the ride and thrilled to join us. Toby and Buddy, were also down for a Rim Trail / Toad's ride, so we all met at the top of Oneidas for the take off. Paul didn't feel right about getting a ride to the top of Oneidas so he pounded up the 6 mile grade and was waiting at the top when the rest of us slackers arrived in cars. Usually we ride it, but we blamed time constraints and family obligations for reasons to drive.
Getting ready to go (next time Corrinne is riding with us):
The ride up to Armstrong Pass was not a problem for James (above), Paul (right) and others. Most of this section was dirt, but we started to encounter snow near the top.
One of my favorite places; Carson Range high country. Brian on the switchbacks above Armstrong Pass:
Once on the Rim Trail we were mainly riding on a snowy rim trail. The dryness of the snow allowed for a grippy texture and challenging and exciting riding. We learned the lessons of keeping the weight over the rear wheel (ass on the seat!) and when to ride in fresh snow and when to follow tracks. By the time we climbed up the switchbacks and cruised through the ridge tops and meadows, we were all comfortable enough to ride with speed and confidence on the long and fun downhill to the top of Toads:
Matt and James trying to keep the mo' going in the snow:
At times, I struggled in the snow: But the views of snow covered peaks were nice:
Toby points out to Paul and James a particular peak in the distance where he and I spend many winter mornings - Powderhouse:
Interesting perfectly round Spring at Freel Meadows:
Paul and James were best friends from elementary school through their first year of college. Aside from their stellar basketball match ups, they rode road bikes as teenagers, went fishing, swimming and partying together for many good years. It was really cool to see Paul and Jim get back together for another good time.....and as you can see they are both still trying to stand a little taller than the other one for the picture.
I was really stoked to be on my new full suspension Stump Jumper for the descent. I had never ridden Toads on anything other than a hard tail, and quickly found that sections that were near catastrophic for me on the hard tail became enjoyable drops on the new bike. Time for Toads!
Toby: Matt:
James: Paul:
The dirt on Toads was in the best shape I've ever ridden it in. It was packed and tacky. No sand, no dust, no fluff - perfect-o! Toad's is loaded with great technical sections and fun stuff. We all mainly kept the bikes grounded, but flew through the banking high speed turn on the pavers berm like rock stars!:
Matt: Paul:
The lower riding on Lower Toads (Star Wars) was amazingly fast and fun. We blew through this section on the perfect dirt at Jedi Light Speed. We finished our ride and car shuttle to the top in time to get all the family men home without any additional grief.
Buddy sporting the muddy rear tire freckles on the snout:
