Yes, his bike does blend in rather nicely, doesn't it?
There was much more riding, but no more pictures from this day, we descended down to the Dry Fork/Lightner drainage, and then we followed the Colorado Trail as it snuck gracefully around a ridge line and down into the Junction Creek drainage, for its final, boisterous descent into Durango. A section I've ridden countless times and will never grow tired of. Even a pinch flat didn't dampen my spirits. We fetched back the vehicles from atop Kennebec and ended up back in camp at the crack of 10:30 p.m. A long day, but well worth it.
The next day was the Colorado Trail from atop Molas Pass to the Engineer Mountain Trail. A big day with about 21 miles of spectacular scenery, all of which was spent up around and above 10,000 feet. Spending time in physical exertion at that elevation underscores the exponential nature of fatigue. We had a strong and willing crew, though.
I could (and should, probably) type a whole bunch of words about all of this. Insights both meaningful and pithy. Reflections on the ride and observations on the very nature of the world. Luckily for all of us, I won't descend into such nattering. Suffice to say that the group rode along through paradise. Stunning views all around. We spread out on the trail, everyone finding their own pace, but with occasional stops to regroup, eat, and take in the scenery.
