I made Tues a rest day and hung around Tommy’s shop, Trailhead. Last night I slept behind the shop on grass screened from Andrew Jackson Way by a building. Much nicer. Temps @ night a sleepable even w/ the door and windows secured.
Yesterday was the shop ride late afternoon. I looked forward to it. Monte Santo SP trails are great for quantity and variation. Just 4 of us, Tommy and I on squishy bikes, Chad on full rigid, and Reggie on a fork, locals ride 29ers. We rode from the shop up to the park, the climb was 800′ on pavement. Ride time was after work hour which increased the number of riders we saw. Great to see many riders. The most challenging part of our ride was the old railroad grade that was just sharp edged babyheads. Deep tree coverage.
Back @ the shop a gathering was happening. Other riders showed up for beer and grilled wings. Party went on until I went to bed @ 12:45AM. Enjoyable part is that this is my 3rd visit here and I know a little about the guys and they about me, history.
Today so far bfast then wash @ a beat up laundromat in 5 points. I punched cold wash. I opened the door after completion to feel warm clothes. My bike clothes are synthetic and require cold water. I will find out the hot water effect as I wear the garments. Shit.
Soon I will be driving to Chattanooga to ride Raccoon mtn. I have learned that new trails are @ 5 points @ Cloudland SP in GA right nearby.
Temps are rising into the 90s w/ high humidity. At least the chigger bites are healing.
Casual plan is Chattanooga then down to N GA for Snake Creek gap part of the Pinhoti. Might have to share trail w/ rattlesnakes.