Yesterday was per the weather forecast of big winds w/ rain mixed in. I stayed inside my van out on Willow Springs rd, ever crowded. Late in the afternoon clouds looked less threatening for rain but still way too windy as I watched dirt being blown up onto where I would be breathing. The winds played w/ whatever is underneath the van.
Forecast for today was for less wind and a probability of rain. I drove into town for resupply, most importantly locally fresh roasted coffee. The roaster and I have visited over the years.
Interesting artist:
I am brewing cold brewed coffee presently w/its bouquet masking damp riding clothes.
A brief visit to Chili Pepper to inquire about trail conditions. Stay away from low trails that are clay based, Klonzo is one system to avoid. I drove back to Willow Springs and hunkered down. Light sprinkles fell off and on. Maybe the rain is moving on. Perhaps, perhaps. Skies looked promising, I changed into my riding kit. Sprinkles fell w/ more gusto. Rain quit, I put on my shoes and stepped out of the van. Still very light sprinkles. Skies upwind I made look clearing. I hopped on my bike and pedaled back out to Klonzo TH. Great traction on the road: no dust. Wheel ruts were cast in the road. But not sticky. I made Klonzo. The first trail I rode was just fine: no sticky clay stuff. I kept going. Way up high I jumped onto Zoltar which descends on mixed slick rock and patches of sand. Pedal on the rock and keep upright and straight on the sand.
Sprinkles started again, just a warning that I heeded. I made the road then pedaled back home. By the time I pedaled the 2.3 miles of road back to the van the skies were loosing bladder control. I put the bike on the van and moved into the security of shelter. I took my damp clothes off. I made it back before the hole closed as precip was a much stronger sprinkle.
Forecast tomorrow is more favorable. Klonzo, Klondike, and Brand M trails need another day to dry out before rain on Thursday. I might drive up onto the mesa for Navajo Rocks loop.
I learned more about my Change Agent badge from a woman working in Moab Classics bike shop which is on the other side of the alley from the interesting artist’s place. She said they were created during the Occupy Wall Street movement but had no knowledge on a supply of badges.