Day 1 - The two bandits left SLC first thing and arrived at Zion National Park to a sunny day, with little traffic. Big Man told MBA to follow and he would show him some of the most amazing sites he had every seen, which could only truly be appreciated while on a bike. They rode up to the end of the park and then MBA was so excited to ride up to the tunnel, he left Big Man, as he was visiting with some local riders, the Olsons from Ivins, (see video below) to review routes, rides, and restaurants. Once arriving at the tunnel, the two of them enjoyed one of the most fun things to do and that is descend the windy road back to the parking lot. There was still daylight, and so they decided to see how far they could get to Kolob Reservoir. They were told it was a beautiful ride, but had a lot of climbing.... and that was NO JOKE! After two herds of elk, several deer and wild turkeys, the two finally ran into snow and headed back to the car for some unbelievable downhill.
Day 2 - With a storm due to hit St. George around noon, the two decided to get a 7:00AM start to ride one of Big Man's favorites, Leeds' Loop. However, MBA, being a little tired from Day 1, showed up 45 minutes late, which gave Big Man a little extra time to warm-up and wonder, REALLY??? The Loop started off with a little squirrel, as they headed up to the Red Cliff campground before riding past Quail Creek and onto Sand Hollow, golf and reservoir. They made the climb out of the reservoir and headed to another secret spot of Big Man's, Sky Ranch, a little community where you can fly your plane and taxi it right to your home/hanger.... WAY COOL!! Big Man couldn't talk MBA into joining him as he rode his bide down the runway. They still were enjoying good weather and headed to La Verkin to get a little morning snack at their newfound nugget, River Rock Roasting Company. After getting a little fuel, they headed to finish the Loop through Toquerville, where Big Man found the house of his dreams, and back to Leeds. The rain hadn't arrived yet, but it was coming. They still had time for one more squirrel and Big Man took MBA up through Silver Reef. They beat the rain, showered and enjoyed a late afternoon matinee, one that MBA loved, NOT! (Don't ever let Big Man pick the movie)
What would a ride be without cows and snakes?
It's even a "smart" home with a hole in the wall
to stick out your rifle
They saw Big Man coming
Day 3 - The rides continued to get better and Big Man saved one of the best for last, the Veyo Loop. They awoke to snow capped mountains, a chill in the air, no traffic and legs that were starting to show that they are both over 60. Arriving at Veyo pies around 10 AM, two hours before they opened, the decision was made to head towards Pine Valley..... WOW, what spectacular vistas they had with the snow covered trees and blue skies. A quick stop at Veyo Pies on the way back, where MBA had two slices of pie, the PCR geezers headed to Snow Canyon, again for another beautiful descent among the red rocks. MBA wanted to ride part of the bike path, even after Big Man warned him that many pick up goat heads and you know what they do and DID! (Listen To Your Leader)
YIPPY SKIPPY
A Must Stop!
