There is simply no better place to train than Arizona in the winter. The weather is great and there are so many places to discover. Even though I have lived here for years, I continue to find cool stuff!.
This winter I have been riding a lot with Jeff Bassett and Matt Russell .Below is a shot of the three of us at Needle Rock. This is just north of the turnoff to 9-mile hill. I cant believe I have been riding this area for five years and I have never been down this road. This summer I plan on jumping in this river before a climb up 9 mile hill.
Speaking of exploring, ona long ride, I discovered Wranglers Roos. Wranglers Roost is located in New River, Maricopa County, Arizona. It was once a stagecoach stop. Some of the original buildings that were used by the stagecoach drivers still stand, including a jail cell where prisoners were boarded while the stagecoach drivers rested.
The highlight thus far of the winter has been the Humbolt Mountain climb. This mountain just north of Seven Springs and Bartlett lake tops out at just over 5300 feet. Below is a shot of the radio tower at the top of the climb.
The views are just amazing from up there. Below is a view to the east. At 5200 feet we are several thousand feet above the valley.
And another view to the North. The final climb is one mile with a 650 foot elevation gain!
In addition to the cycling, I have been exploring the local hikes. Below is a shot of Brad Stocker, Nathan and Riley on top of Camelback Mountain.
And here is a shot of Nathan and Suzanne as we hike Tom's Thumb trail in North Scottsdale! Good times for sure.
