Gillies Creek

Tick off another box on the list of rides to do this summer. I’ve been looking for an excuse to hit up Rock Oven from the top lately, and Olly from the coast showed up just in time to make that happen. It’s a bit of an approach though, and the hike a bike through the Wright Passage is bit of a push.

Eric in particular wasn’t a big fan, but he…the time for 40 lb hardtails with 8″ forks and 24″ rear wheels is long over. At least it’s fun rig on the descent.

Especially when it’s a 5000′ descent under bluebird skies.

Hottest day of the year though, which makes the climbing seem harder than it really is. You can tell how mild it’s been this year by how deep the grass has grown.

It’s also kind of late in the season for the first Mariposa Lilies to make their appearance. This endangered species of flower is supposedly delicious. I’ve never tried it, but various bugs seem to really enjoy it.

I was getting enough enjoyment out of the views and riding the slickrock.

34C today. Any wonder why it’s called Rock Oven?

Snake Pit

BC has such a wealth of riding, that sometimes trails “disappear.”  Yes, it’s true.  Snake Pit is one such.

Way back when, it fell victim to the wrath of a landowner. Ironically, all it did was pass near this particular owners land.  It never actually crossed over onto any private property.   It was supposedly all related to this small herd of Bighorn Sheep (which have proven over the long term to be surprisingly accepting of bike traffic.  Amazing what animals will put up with when you’re not shooting at them).

The trail is still sort of there.  It’s a bit tough to find, as it’s somewhat grown over and the old line has been obscured in places by quad trails, but it’s there.

Some nice views too.  As you’re running down the edge of a canyon, you can’t help but see some epic sights in here.

We got lost and found a whole bunch of times, but at least we got to enjoy a great evening exploring some great terrain.

We’ll finish off tonight with some old school sliders.

I almost hit a truck…