Seeking Relief in the Mountains

[exapkib]

These past few weeks have been heavy ones--preparing for a new semester, sending kids back to school, compiling my file for tenure . . . lots going on.

I've been feeling the cumulative effect of the stress, and it's starting to take a toll. Yesterday I took a morning that I "couldn't afford to be away from my desk" and pointed my bike up the canyon. As has so often been the case, going into the mountains was just what I needed. I turned off the highway up the side canyon, and the sound of traffic gradually gave way to the chirping of insects, the stream's gurgle, and the sound of my own breathing. Ascending higher, the evergreens gave way to quakies, and their movement in the wind played across my eyes and ears as I continued higher. Toward the top the quakies and scrub oak get shorter and shorter (this particular climb never quite pushes past treeline), letting the sun break through the cool mountain air.

My mind and soul sure needed this ride. The climbing was just about more than my body could handle (more writing than riding this summer), but it was doing so much good for the rest of me that I had to keep going. Such a curious thing to feel so exhausted and rejuvenated all at the same time.

[p nut]

Alpine loop! One of my favorite rides. Morning temps have been about perfect lately, too.

[Jellybird3]

Glad you got out. We all need that from time-to-time.

Great photos and sweet bike too!

[Wasatch]

This is one of my all-time favorite Utah rides. Can't beat the scenery, and the quakies are gorgeous, especially once Fall hits.

[pncguy]

This sort of experience is why I ride. Thank you for sharing and reminding me!

[thunderworks]

I'm envious you live near or in the mountains. Looks like a lovely ride. I wish I could ride out my door and ride up a mountain!

[tiretrax]

Lucky you. I only have concrete canyons near me. Beautiful scenery, and beautiful bike!

[William]

Sometimes you just need to get out and jump in the driver's seat and head into the hills!

"So pick up your feet.
Got to move to the trick of the beat
There is no elite
Just take your place in the driver's seat"






William

[Clean39T]

Gorgeous pics. I hope to go ride there at some point...

[SpeedyChix]

Good call. Great views too.

[josephr]

Destination ride for sure. Thanks for the pics!

[classtimesailer]

I thought you wanted chainring/cogset recommendations. Sounds like your fine.

[pdmtong]

Further proof the Spinergy wheels were an aesthetic fail

[93KgBike]

Great reminder. Thanks. The pump looks purposeful!

[nalax]

That ride looks beautiful. It's relieving a bit of my stress!