Queen's Ransom '25: Dust Bowl 12th Ed.

 So here we are, 2025 and the 12th Annual running of the Queen's Ransom route. Where does the time go? I had sent out a few pre-registration links this year, for out of state riders or folks who were buying airfare. The remaining spots went live and barely 90 seconds later, all 30 spots were spoken for. Yowza!! It seems everyone paid attention when I said to set an alarm. The wait-list ballooned to 18 riders before I closed the registration link. It sucks telling people who want to be here that there just isn't enough room or logistical support for more riders. In the end, 30 is a nice size and with some cancellations, etc. Everyone on the wait-list at least had the opportunity to be here.

Like last year I suggested a pre-ride meetup at the Creekside Taco Shack the night before so people staying in the area could begin to meet their fellow riders. We had about a dozen show up, anticipation was building.

Tacos and storytime.

The extended forecast was looking pretty good, but the first couple of days would definitely be on the warm side of things, pushing into the mid-80's. Even us local desert dwellers aren't quite ready for that. The rising temps in spring always feel hotter than what they are. Then the forecast added some wind on day 1 as an extra bonus.

We had a few people stay with us at the house and things were bustling early on Thursday. I did much better this year in getting things in order in the days leading up to the start, makes for a less hectic morning on Thursday. Drop bags were loaded in the car and before we knew it we were huddling up for the group photo.

Giving some final words to the group.

Sharon is ready. Photo by Rich.

2025 Crew!!

The women were well represented too.

We departed a few minutes after 8a through our neighborhood and out to the busy Queen Creek Rd. for a short connector to the Power Ranch greenbelt.

Leading the train out of the neighborhood.

The greenbelt goes under Germann Rd and provides a nice aerial shot.

Everyone was pumped up!!

Rut-roh. Middle car was crunched good. We had to divert around the scene.

Anna & Dave on the miles of canals heading north.

Dirt peloton.

As the canals winded through the neighborhoods of Mesa, the trees and housing helped block the wind. We reached McDowell Rd. where we'd ride a couple of paved miles east to Desert Trails Park. It was on this stretch where I was officially dropped from the group. The wind really took a toll and I was feeling it. So much so, that I pulled into QT for a chocolate milk and a rootbeer for later. Glad I did that. Over at the park, everyone was gathered and I began rounding up folks for their roll-call pics:

Kara (@karawoolgar)

Stephen (@Boland1064)

Debra (@Debrah1234)

Debra's bike!!

John R.

Sam (@mtnsammy_j)

Matt

Anna (@Galloa412)

Sharon

Rich

Stacey (@aktrailtramp)

David (@nukesunrisebikebags)

Kirstin (@kpmoab)

Marty (@riverduck74)

Jessica (@lilverp)

Beverly

Thomas (@tab_mullins)

Karin (@karin_pocock)

Nancy

Jeff

Spencer (@spencer.ci)

ReiRey (@reyrei85)

Joshua (@decisive_prologue)

Dave (@davecavaletto)

Constantin

Jason (@fearless.kids)

Lindsay (@lindsay.nohl)

Zachary (@zanderson24)

Steven (@stevenspicka)

John C. (@ke_dad_bikes)

Mike (@mcbutner)

Tracy (@tkubas)

John S. (@schillingsworth)

While taking the roll-call photos I realized we were missing a few riders: Debra, Jessica and Sam. We had been at the bike park for a while and had to keep moving. Hoping they would catch up later on. The group began dispersing on the route. The Hawes trails are the first set of trails on route, but first another mile or so of pavement.

My entire goal of the ride, aside from finishing, was to ride what I could and walk the rest. Seems simple enough, but I also didn't want to try to be a hero and wreck my legs by not walking when I probably should. This would be my biggest bikepacking ride on the singlespeed setup, running a 30t oval up front and 22t cog. It always takes a day+ for me to settle in to these bigger rides and the early season heat wouldn't help matters.

It was slow going, but I made it to the high point along the Hawes trail. Let the fun begin!!

Thomas heading down Magic Mountain.

Stacey making her way through the Hawes trails. Photo by Kara.

John R. and his loaded rig. He was having some difficulty riding with flat pedals, as he switched before the ride.

I picked my way over and across the Twisted Sister trail. I knew the miles would start getting a bit easier and faster. I was more than ready for it.

Taking in the view along Big Sister flow trail.

I was finally beginning to settle in a bit and had been riding solo for a while. As I rejoined the High Noon trail I came across a group from our ride. Lindsay and Jason were really feeling the affects from the heat. I made them a deal to lead them to the Usery Park visitors center where we could get chilled water and some shade. We'd end up cutting a short section of the route, but it was for the best.

At the visitor's center the water fountain was ice cold. So good. We had a snack and re-grouped. I could tell it had worked as we all felt much better when leaving. There's a trail next to the visitor's center that led us right back on route, slightly downhill, smooth crushed granite and fast. The next bunch of miles flew by as we neared the upcoming SAG stop.

I learned later on that there were 3 riders from North Carolina also riding the route and they had been asking others in our group where I was at. They were waiting for me to ride by at the Pass Mtn. trailhead, but as luck would have it, that was part of the route we skipped getting to the visitors center.

Visual flight rules from the visitor's center.

Jason cruising through Usery Park.

The wind had really kicked up the dust, obstructing the long range views.

Heading to the SAG as ReiRey is already done and going back on route!!

Must be the place.

Yowza!! John & Jennifer went all out. All sorts of drinks, sandwiches, chips/salsa, crackers/dips, pizza, etc. Thank you!!!!

They weren't able to provide a SAG stop last year due to recently moving, but now they're back on route, mostly, and it's only 10 miles or so to camp from here instead of 50 miles in previous years.

I suggested to Lindsay, Jason and a few others who were struggling a bit with the heat about taking another shortcut after leaving Usery Park. We'd stay on pavement for a couple of miles bypassing the most difficult piece of trail on day 1. It was the right move and we arrived to camp early.

Some hike-a-bike we skipped. Photo by Joshua.

The payoff view for the work you put in. Photo by Kara.

ReiRey was extremely happy we crossed paths after our shortcut!! Photo by ReiRey.

Ready for the final downhill to camp. We picked up ReiRey when we rejoined the route on the jeep roads.

Marty began a flurry of riders arriving to camp.

Nice view of the Superstition Mtns. too.

Camp beginning to take shape.

Jason fully relaxed now. Photo by Lindsay.

Lindsay & Jason recovered from the heat!! Photo by Lindsay.

David is in.

Kirstin right behind.

Mike puts the wraps on day 1.

John C. & Spencer roll in.

Stephen.

Sam

Sharon

Stacey

Rich

Everyone that camped here arrived in daylight.

Plenty of room to spread out if you want a bit of solitude.

Three riders, Debra, Jessica and Constantin (Con), sent me a text saying they were camping over at Usery Park. Not sure if a mechanical slowed them down or the heat or the trails, but I was glad they weren't calling it off.

Beautiful night settling in. Photo by Jason.

It was too windy to consider a campfire, but thankfully sleep came soundly.

My plan was to reach the shopping center in Gold Canyon at 11a right when De La Cruz Mexican Grille opens. Have a nice sit down lunch and margarita. Last year I left camp at 8a and arrived at 11:30a. This year I was on the trail by 7:30a.

Not a bad place to wake up.

Early morning rays over the Superstitions.

Yes, yes it is.

Leaving the Goldfield Mtns. behind after crossing AZ88.

Kara posing on the other side of the sign.

Ahhh, here we go. It's a love/hate relationship with this trail, I happen to love it. Lots.

It starts fast & smooth. Photo by Joshua.

Rich & Sam still smiling!! Photo by Rich.

Sharon getting into the tech section. Photo by Rich.

Overlooking Apache Junction and the Goldfield Mtns.

A smooth section of trail here. If you enjoy technical riding that demands stellar bike handling skills, you'll probably like this trail too.

The views aren't half bad either. Nice shot of Flat Iron here.

Spencer appears to be bushwhacking, but there IS a trail there!! Photo by Kara.

A final gift: almost a mile of downhill, but it'll rattle your teeth!! Slight path to follow here.

A short pavement connection brings you to these fast, smooth horse trails. A complete opposite experience from the Jacob's Crosscut trail.

Obligatory Silly Mtn. photo.

I rolled into the shopping center where a few others were already eating at the coffee shop. It was only 9:40a!! The mexican restaurant doesn't open until 11a. Hmmm, not sure I want to wait around for it. So I opted to do some quick shopping at Basha's, Thomas shared half his breakfast with me, then I grabbed a footlong from Subway for later. I left the shopping center around 10:30.

Into the Gold Canyon trail network we go. Photo by Lindsay.

ReiRey atop the 100 Proof Climb...why is it called that?? Photo by Lindsay.

...because the Whiskey Cactus has juice!! Photo by Lindsay.

Gold Canyon trails are a hoot!! Lindsay rips across the arc'd bridge on Gila Monster trail.

ReiRey up next.

Kara with the early exit!!

The rocks of Micro Moab.

Tough to take bad pictures here.

ReiRey guides it through.

Lindsay on the rock roll along Phantom Trail.

ReiRey making it look easy.

My turn on the next one. Photo by ReiRey.

Group starting the Outer Limits trail. Photo by Rich.

After exiting the Gold Canyon trails it's a series of jeep roads over to Queen Valley, our next resupply.

Queen Valley is a desert oasis of retirees.

We took over the café and convenience store.

While hanging out at the store with everyone, you could tell the general mood today was much more relaxed. The first day was hard. People were now settled in, it didn't quite feel as hot, but still warm. The skies were mostly clear of dust and not much wind. It was a great day of riding.

Stacey, Sharon & Sam enjoying the refreshments in Queen Valley. Photo by Rich.

Entering the Wild West, but not much action on Gunsmoke Alley this year. Photo by Anna.

FS172 offers stunning views of the rugged Superstition Mtns. Photo by Kara.

Makes for a great backdrop too. Photo by Stacey.

Caught up to Marty, Thomas, David and Kirstin on the final miles before camp.

Saguaro forest.

Camp 2 paradise.

Kris, red van, and Duane, white truck, once again came out and setup a fabulous camp for us. Full spread of BBQ fixin's, dessert, portable shower and plenty of drinks. Added bonus, it was Kirstin's birthday, so David brought along some birthday brownies!! Only the blonde ones were spiked!!

No wind, so we lit up Duane's portable campfire.

Once again, everyone arrived in daylight - as it should be. I did receive a text later from our 3 stragglers that they had camped about 5 miles away!! Would have been cool if they had caught back up to the group.

This was also the night of the planetary alignment, but no binoculars meant I could only see Venus, Mars & Jupiter. Still cool though. Unfortunately, I didn't get much sleep, just a good solid rest.

Sunrise over Apache Leap and Picketpost Mtn.

It was about 10 miles to Superior, a long gentle climb got the body warmed up after dipping through some cold air sinks earlier in the morning. Today was a big day and test, lots of climbing on the Arizona Trail. Just keep moving.

In Superior, a bunch of us were loading up at Circle K and observing the Superior scene. It's always a happening place with some top notch people watching. As most everyone was getting back on route, I had one more chore to do: get a burrito for dinner.

Pickles to the rescue!! Photo by Rich.

Slightly uphill, into the wind and off-route, but definitely worth it. It was a fast cruise back to Circle K.

The creek crossing behind Circle K was bone dry, as was this area on the L.O.S.T. under the Mesquite trees. There was a small signed detour due to road construction, but easy to follow.

As I neared Queen Creek, the actual creek, not the town where I live, I opted to go off my published gpx and stick to the L.O.S.T. signs. Superior has done a really nice job getting the signs installed at all the road junctions. I found by following the signs, the route was actually a bit more straightforward through here and I'll make the change to the published route.

Spring fed creek was flowing!! Amazing.

Stacey, Sharon, Sam & Tracy ready to drop into Arnett Canyon, arguably the beginning of the most scenic part of the entire route. Photo by Rich.

Back on route, dropping into Arnett Canyon.

Arnett Creek was also flowing!! So nice to see water here this year.

Joshua heading down the canyon.

Making the final up & over to the AZT.

It was somewhere on this short section that I started to feel unsettled in my gut, which rarely happens. As I neared the top I contemplated going over to the Picketpost trailhead where there are restrooms. Another minute later I knew I had to get over there...and rather quickly!! Thankfully, the restroom was clear. I'm guessing something I ate didn't sit well and afterwards I was deciding if I should continue. I took a break at the picnic table for a good 15 minutes. I slowly started to feel better and decided I should at least get on the trail to see how it goes. It didn't take long before I knew I made the correct decision to keep going.

Sam, Rich, Sharon & Tracy link up with the Arizona Trail. Photo by Stacey.

Zach coming up the trail.

Beautiful Sonoran Desert. Home. Weaver's Needle in center. Photo by Kara.

Joshua in full disguise. Photo by Kara.

This was a first, some cowboys rustling a herd of cattle through here. I missed it though. Photo by Kara.

The Wild West lives!! Photo by Dave.

The first few miles had a lot of on/off sections for me.

An early sustained climb that I walked.

Picketpost panorama. Photo by ReiRey.

Nice shot of Picketpost near the top.

Here comes Lindsay!!

In my natural habitat. Photo by Lindsay.

Ride, push, ride, push, repeat. Photo by Lindsay.

Zach, David and Kirstin at another high point.

Kirstin climbing through Alamo Canyon.

Charred Saguaro from the 2020 Telegraph Fire. Kirstin gaining ground. Photo by Lindsay.

A 4x4 crests the small rise on Telegraph Canyon Rd., FS4, in the distance.

Zach winds his way through the Saguaro forest.

Notice the clear blue skies in the previous photos. It seemed almost instantly, but the winds and dust began to fly!! Distant views were limited and our bikes were trying to get blown off the trail.

Zach's bright yellow sunhat stands out in the stark landscape still recovering from the Telegraph Fire.

Looking south from the 10 mile overlook. The ATA rain collector can be seen on the left side of the rounded hill. A long downhill and subsequent climb stand in the way.

There had been reports of people getting sick after filtering water along this section, most likely cause was the Gila River water, but a few of us took the time to clean the rain collector spigot and gate with soap & water. I filled up with 2.5L to get me to the ADOT spigot in Kelvin the following day.

Loading up on H2O. Photo by Lindsay.

The highlight of the route: Martinez Canyon.

Generally downhill-ish to start.

Some tread and drainage work has been done out here in the recent months.

Classic shot.

The dusty, windy conditions can't diminish the views out here. Although the 40mph gusts made things interesting at times!!

Otherworldly landscape.

Normally you can see Mt. Lemmon from here, not today. Still amazeballs.

It had a smoky appearance, but my breathing really didn't notice much.

Another friend out bikepacking. Kathleen was doing her own 3-day adventure and planned to camp with us. She made all her bags too!! Looks great!!

The start of the fast, flowy section.

Long range view of the 2 Thumbs Up cactus. Center, opposite the wash.

Bumped into Alex Schultz as he was racing northbound on the Gila100. He was gunning for Kurt's record time of 10h 30m, but came up a bit short. Here, mile 75 or so, he was at 8h 30m, which is blazin' fast. Nice work, Alex!!

Closing in on camp 3, near Dale's Butte.

I arrived around 4:45p much to my surprise considering the amount of hike-a-bike and wonkiness back at Picketpost trailhead. I was quite pleased with that. Now we just need the wind to calm down a bit.

Kara and Lindsay at camp 3!!

Gerrit!!! He started from his house in Scottsdale this morning, skipped a few bits, but rode 100+ miles to catch the group. Stud. Photo by Kara.

Panorama of camp 3. Photo by ReiRey.

Sam rolls into camp as the sky begins to light up.

The cloud porn only lasted a few minutes, but it was nice.

Word began to spread around camp about the possibility of rain around 11p, 60% chance for Superior. I joked that it was up over the mountain and 20 miles away!! Most of us didn't bring any kind of rain gear since the forecast had shown a 0% chance a few days ago. We were all scheming ways to stay dry if needed. As darkness settled in, the clouds shifted and the stars were on full display. Maybe we'll steer clear of the rain afterall.

I later received a text from our 3 stragglers, Debra took a spill in Arnett Canyon and was calling off her ride. She said Jessica and Con were continuing on and planning to camp at the rain collector. That's gonna be a windy night up there, but I was glad to hear they were still on route.

Trail lights far below. Karin and Dave opted to add on a Ripsey Loop the following day, so they got a bit of a head start by camping along the Gila.

Once again I was having difficulty falling asleep. Sometime around 11p I looked up and noticed the stars were gone!! The clouds were back and looked thick. No rain, yet. By midnight the clouds had moved on and the camp area was spared. Whew!! Back to my rest game.

Spencer and Thomas ready to go!! Photo by Lindsay.

Sunday brought cool temps, sunny skies and NO DUST!! A much better photo than the one above.

Zach on an early morning climb. Photo by Lindsay.

Met up with Stacey, Tracy and Sharon on the descent to the Gila River.

At the bottom of the descent lies the low point of the entire AZT.

Plenty of mining remnants along the way.

First view of the Gila River.

Gerrit easily catches up and zooms on by.

Marty cruising along.

Looking north towards the White Canyon Wilderness.

Wall St. of the Sonoran Desert.

Entering the final 10 miles of the Gila River Valley. Photo by Anna.

Surveying its kingdom. Photo by ReiRey.

Nancy catching up while I took a snack break.

Matt digging the scenery.

As soon as I mentioned to Steven how fun & rideable the trail was, he tumbles off the side!! I guess he didn't believe me.

A rare crested Saguaro. Photo by Anna.

Across the way lies the big test for the day: Florence-Kelvin Hwy climb.

I thought I saw someone already heading up, but upon review, when zoomed in, it's only a road sign!!

If you're this close to the train trestle, it means Dale's Demoralizer is up next. A punchy final climb, then descent to Kelvin.

I probably walked half of it, but it went fairly quick.

AZT brass cap resides near the top marking the completion of the trail back in Dec. 2011.

Kelvin comes into view.

Ran into these fellas out on the Gila River Ramble. The second guy recognized me, then the first guy asked if I was someone famous! Haha. Infamous is more like it. I guess it depends on how much you enjoy hike-a-bike.

The ADOT spigot in all its glory. Photo by ReiRey.

Caught up with a few riders at the ADOT spigot.

I made a business decision to skip the next 2 miles of AZT since I'd be walking almost all of it. I'd take my chances on the dirt road climb, which started too steep for my legs. I was able to ride the rest to where the AZT joined the road. A fast downhill to A Diamond Ranch went by quick. That marks the beginning of the 4 1/4 mile climb on the Flo-Kel Hwy. Barely 100' into it, I was off the bike. The initial grade is the steepest, so I walked a bunch early on.

Gerrit goes on by.

I just needed to keep moving, hopeful I'd be able to ride most of it. It was on/off/on/off all the way up. I took note of the time when I started and I reached the top after 1h 4m. Not too bad if you ask me.

So glad to be at the top of the climb. Next stop: Margaritas!!

The SAG stop was a happening place. I can't thank my wife enough for continuing to do this for everyone. My buddy, Mike, also came out to lend a hand this year since he couldn't make the ride.

Cowbell clanging greeted the riders.

Dave & Karin rolling in after adding their bonus loop on Ripsey. Hardcore!!

What a crew!!

I stuck around getting everything packed up with Mike & Kara. We must've been there for about 3 hours and it was only 4p or so. Now it was mostly downhill to camp 4 only 9 miles away.

South Butte on the right and Area 52 dead center. That's where we camp.

Matt on the long descent. Photo by Anna.

South Butte dominates the view to camp. Photo by Lindsay.

I was surprised to catch up to Rich & Stephen on the ride down. They took a wrong turn and went a mile off-route!! That'll do it.

Rich descending one of the chunkier sections.

Stephen passes by Grayback.

Late afternoon light on this sandy section of Cochran Rd.

The approach to Area 52 is always sandy, it's a wash, but this year with the lack of rainfall it was extra deep. A bit more walking was needed than most other years, but we soon joined the others tucked up next to the rocks.

It's a great place to camp, plenty of room for everyone to spread out.

Lindsay, ReiRey and Anna in relax mode at camp 4.

There's even room for a glamping setup!!

Good times and stories around the campfire.

It took a few nights, but the wind finally cooperated.

My friend, Liz, had started the route in the wee hours on Saturday with the goal of catching up to us at this camp location. We saw her tracker was getting close as night fell and were on the lookout for an LED. It didn't take long before she found us. Just in time for a relaxing final day on route. Nice work, Liz!!

I also received an update on Jessica & Con. They had asked if I could leave a couple gallons of water behind at the SAG stop and they'd camp somewhere nearby. Hopefully they could catch up to the group at the brewery the following day.

Once again, I barely slept a wink. Not sure what's going on there, but I was well rested and ready for the long pedaly day ahead. I vowed not to overspin on the flats, just ride a comfortable pace.

Daybreak on day 5. Photo by Kara.

First light on South Butte.

The jeep road skirting Area 52 is just chunky enough to get the blood pumping on a cool morning. Zach giving it a go.

Jeff & Nancy nearing the top of the rough stuff.

I was a little concerned about the ensuing downhill as it's a very sandy jeep road. Thankfully, this side didn't seem as thick as the camp side and rode quick well. It's slightly downhill too, which always helps.

Spencer enters the canopy corridor.

Sand trap!! This short bit is always deep.

Liz with her setup, gearing up for the Highland 550.

Through the sand and onto the canal bank.

Upon reaching the paved road to Florence, we were greeted with a head wind. Note the wind sock in the background. Oof.

Seven grueling, slow miles into town.

I dropped off the back and during the slow going I kept debating where to eat once I arrived in Florence. Should I do the easy, typical stop at McD's for a calorie bomb or finally visit the Florence Cafe I've heard good things about. I kept waffling, no pun intended, but as I neared town, I really wanted an omelette. The Florence Cafe it is. There were a few riders finishing up when I arrived, so I snagged a seat at the table. The breakfast fare really hit the spot and I'm glad I stopped.

Kara, John, Spencer & Zach keeping a table open at the Florence Cafe.

I really didn't need to stock up on anything, so back to the head wind I went. The wind really wasn't too much of a deterrent as my low gearing on the flats kept me at a steady pace. I probably wouldn't have ridden much faster with gears to be honest.

Ahh, back on dirt and away from the Hunt Hwy traffic for a bit.

Passing by Poston Butte.

I've never seen an active train on this stretch of railway. This is the same line that crosses the trestle by Kelvin. I've seen a few trains out that way over the years. Pretty cool to see here.

Wow!! Civilization is definitely encroaching on the route. This is in the southern part of San Tan Valley and this housing community wasn't here last year. I'm hopeful this dirt corridor will be a permanent easement heading west.

Anna, John & Spencer making good time through the flats. Photo by ReiRey.

The blight of humanity over the next few miles. It's a sad state, pathetic. It's not like there aren't landfills, etc. Unfortunately, this was only a small sampling out here.

Heading north now, out of the wind!! Walker Butte on the left.

At least 3 food trucks have popped up on route now as you follow the Hunt Hwy after the railroad tracks.

Joshua and Gerrit taking full advantage. Photo by Lindsay.

Sharon is all smiles because I think she had a fresh outfit for each day!!

Soon after entering San Tan Regional Park, we ride by the Shaka Crested Saguaro.

It makes for a great photo op. Kara, Stephen and Sam agree.

Sam topping out on one of the few short climbs.

Kara is still smiling this time around!!

The Dynamite trail, the final downhill of the route as we exit the park.

Fast paved miles leaving the park trailhead. Zoooom!!!

One of the new additions this year to avoid over a mile of paved city road.

More new stuff, green belt linking into the Queen Creek Wash path.

Safe to say, we take over the outside patio!!

I made it!! Photo by Lindsay.

Old Ellsworth Brewing Co. is a fitting place to end. Good beer, great food, friendly vibe and we can easily keep an eye on our bikes!! Riders arrive at their own pace, to much cheering from those already there. Swag is handed out, stories shared, new friends made.

New friends: Kara, Sharon, Tracy & Stacey. Photo by Kara.

Matt & Marty. Photo by Rich.

Bikes, bikes, bikes. Photo by Lindsay.

So far, these larger groups I've had have been nothing short of stellar. It's the people who show up for this that make it so special. This year was no exception. Some regular riding friends, some friends I don't see too often and a bunch of people I didn't know beforehand. Just the way I like it. Let's keep it going again next year, yeah?

Queen's Ransom 2026: February 26 - March 2

(Registration will open on January 26, time TBD)

Marty and I riding back to my house.

Strava link.

Overall, I was really pleased with how the singlespeed setup went. Gotta keep stacking some bigger rides to get my climbing legs primed. It's coming along.

Thanks yous:

There's no way I could do all this myself. It hasn't been a one-man show in years. First, a thank you to all the riders for showing up with a positive attitude and general ride/life stoke. It really is the reason I continue to do this ride. The SAG stops: John & Jennifer on day 1 for opening their home to us and providing a ridiculous amount of goodies. Kris & Duane for turning camp 2 into a glamping campout, you guys rock!! My amazing wife, Kara - not the rider!!, for taking time out of her weekend to drive out to the remote desert and wait for smelly mountain bikers to show up. It really is a thing of legend. (Mike W. with the huge assist this year!!) Katie at Hello Fern Creations, for making the incredible pottery mugs, they are a huge hit!! Jeff at Okluma for the Ti stem caps, everyone is always amazed at the detail. Nik for making the wooden QR keychains, rad!! Scott at Trackleaders for putting the QR on the tracking map.

So many options, plus another 7 thanks to a late USPS delivery.

Back at the house, people were picking out their mugs of choice and pint glasses. If anyone wants a second mug or pint glass, reach out to Katie for a mug and the pint glasses can be ordered on my Zazzle page at anytime.

I was popping in & out seeing people off when Jessica and Con rode up!! They finally caught up, right at the end and were so stoked on the ride. It was great to see them and hear that they had a great time in spite of missing out on the extras the rest of us enjoyed. I'll say it again, it's a tough, demanding route worthy of the 8/10 on the difficulty scale.

Available as a poster, etc on Redbubble.