Today we climb. Then ride. (Again) The lifts are not open yet, opening day is tomorrow. We get the pleasure of really working for our reward. This is what Dan and I love so lets get at it! As you can read from the photo above, Armstrong trail is uphill and we’re taking it to the next trail Mid Mountain then to Pinecone that will lead us to the top. Below, a screenshot of our route. The red being the downhill section! Not many photos from that side of the ride. It was FUN!
So beginning at the beginning, we were up early. We didn’t do a sit down breakfast at the resort, we decided we’d get something quick and find some coffee in town. We realized once we were out, there weren’t many places open at 6:45 am in Park City. Finally we found Atticus coffee and book shop. Open at 7 am, lots of people there already and we had our coffee, ready to roll.
On our drive to Park City Mountain, we pass some vintage skis along a fence. Foreshadowing perhaps. No snow here.
Lifts were not open as I mentioned and we weren’t exactly sure where we could enter the trails. We asked a passing biker and they directed us to a condo community about a mile down the road where we can enter using the Armstrong trailhead. And so it begins and the trails are already amazing!
Stopped and chatted with a few at one of the points towards the end of Armstrong. This is where many were taking the ride down on different trails while we continued to climb up to ride a section of the Wasatch Crest Trail and ride it down! Amazing to live here, to be able to get on the bike, get a good Well-Fit workout in on a beautiful sunny day and then ride down at different points depending on your time and schedule.
We are now off Armstrong and following Midmountain to Pinecone Ridge to get to the Wasatch Crest at the top. Refuel with some Numa Gel and get some pics of the view.
We met many riders along the climb and I will say we noticed a good amount of those we encountered were women. Alone. I am impressed as I am a lifelong runner, trail runner, mountain biker and hiker. I always have to consider my safety going alone and the trails are one of the places that if I am to set out on a Well-Fit adventure, I make sure to have either my dog or another well-fit companion. I will say I do take into consideration that I could encounter someone with an unhealthy mindset, but I will also be clear that the people I meet on the trails or the roads are very kind. Mostly my concern is that the trails at home are rocky and risky. Being alone and taking a scorpion spill over the handle-bars, with no one there to know help is needed. This and wildlife must be considered as well. Black bears don’t really attack but they are a wild animal and if in the wrong place at the wrong time – between a momma black bear and her cubs – that might not end well. It’s just an approach to life I always take seriously because not only do I not want to put myself in a dangerous situation that is avoidable, but I don’t want to cause a search party looking for my location in the mountain. Here, to see so many women out and hitting the trails, it gave me the true beautiful sense that this is a safe place. It is a well-marked and well-known area, challenging and thus you won’t find many out that aren’t well-fit. But the trails are smooth, groomed, so fun! The energy of the area just has a beautiful welcoming protected vibe and everyone on the trail is here to do exactly what this magical place offers. To run, hike or mountain bike in a healthy state of mind.
Onwards and upwards. This is Pinecone Ridge, almost to the top we’ve accomplished an elevation gain of over 3000ft. For the most part were able to actually ride it, peddling and pushing, but some spots we had to stop and walk the bikes. Here, what made us stop in awe was that at about 9500′ elevation we had reached the snowpack. Those skis earlier were a little bit of foretelling for sure.
And then around the corner we gradually see the top. We’re here! We made it! Wow. Amazing views!
Remember earlier I mentioned we noticed women alone. Also young kids. Alone! These kids, on their own, no adult pushing them or riding with them. Ages ranging from 8 being the youngest to 12 the oldest. They rode up a different way, the harder more intense Puke Hill! I was so impressed. Again, the feeling of how welcoming the trails and the mountain is. As long as you’re well-fit and well-prepared!
Alright, now to come flying down, the reward is so worth it! We stopped to be sure we’re well-hydrated and make sure we were following the trails we wanted. I took these few pics and onwards we went. The red on my route map showing it was where we were riding fast!
Back at the base right where we started, late afternoon lunch. Tacos and beer taste so much better after a day like today. After four and a half hours of Well-Fit fun, Well-Nourished delish!
Back to the resort. Time for pre-dinner drinks by the pool and taking a very relaxing swim. Ready for more Well-Fit fun tomorrow! This time, the lifts will be open.
