Scott and Chad have done it again. They have created another epic multi-day course by linking together some of the best single track in central Arizona. Clearly, the course was well thought out, researched and the multiple reconnaissance trips that Scott and Chad had made really made for an exceptional ride. The route traverses several of Arizona’s hallmark scenic areas, landmarks and trails, with ample places for food supply and water source. There are even places along the route for a night in a motel, if desired.
I was really looking forward to this ride. Work has really been stressing me out, lately. Four days of suffering in the saddle, out in the wild, would be the perfect remedy for the work dull-drums. The ride was by no means a walk in the park and it certainly had its share of “Chad-isms” (if you have ridden in any of Chad’s races you know what I mean, that is, he never takes the easy route). As far as the weather goes, it was perfect and I could not have wished for better conditions. And of course, regrouping at the end of the stages and hanging out with everyone was a blast.
I think that Sycamore Canyon was my favorite stretch of the route. And bombing down Shultz Creek Trail was about as good a Grand Finale as you scheme up. This route is destine to become a classic.
More info can be found at Chad’s Arizona Endurance Series website.
Day 1
AZT near Marshal Lake.
On top of Anderson Mesa, looking down at Lake Mary.
Looking out from Stage 1 finish point at Munds Wagon Trail.
Lee and Chad
View from the rim.
Sunset.
Day 2
Munds Wagon Trail.
Lost Arrow Trail, near Chicken Point.
On the Templeton Trail.
Cathedral Rock.
Single track at the base of Cathedral Rock.
Beginning the Lime Kiln Trail.
More of the Lime Kiln Trail.
Looking down on Cottonwood from up high on Mingus Mtn.
Trail 105 on Mingus.
Day 3
Starting down Yaeger trail.
Coyote Springs watering hole.
Descending to the Verde River, Bill Williams Mt. in the background.
Tim filling up on water at the Verde River.
Scott on the bridge across the Verde River.
Climbing out from the Verde River on Perkinsville Road.
Yours truly, photo taken by my support team.
Flowers along the road.
Great Western Trail.
Near Pine Flat.
Bill Williams Mtn.
Benham Trail near the bottom Bill Williams.
More Bill Williams single track.
More Bill Williams single track.
View from near the summit of Bill Williams.
Day 4
Fast FS road early on a cold morning.
Sycamore Canyon. I personally thought the single track on this section of the course was the most enjoyable of the whole ride.
More Sycamore Canyon.
Entering the pines near Wing Mt.
Classic Flagstaff single track, Fort Valley Trails.
Dig the pic, especially the Sycamore Rim ones. Seems like you were taking some pretty good pictures while riding
well done.
Here is to many more bikepacking trips….
Nice, Rob. Glad you were able to make it for the stage version and that you liked the route. Thanks for the words of praise on the route. Congrats on the 3rd place finish!
D’oh, that was me, Scott, not Chad. I’m logged in as rockyroad5050 for some reason.