Lord of the Squirrels Via Into the Mystic
Ah, each summer, it's like a family tradition—a pilgrimage to our beloved mountain biking sanctuary. While the thrills of the expansive bike park usually dominate the conversation, my not-so-secret love affair is with this beast of an uphill trek.
Even before your tires hit the gravel of "Into the Mystic," brace yourselves. This is uphill work that makes your leg muscles question your life choices. It's like a vertical marathon where each push of the pedal is a small victory. Numerous routes snake their way to the top, but there's one that has my allegiance—the one the makes your feelings bleed.
Though the trail carries a "blue" rating, let's be real—it's a blue that has some kick - 1300m of elevation kick. It's akin to a shopping spree with a strict budget. Pedal too hard too fast, and you might not have the energy left for the exhilarating descent. And speaking of descents, if your bike decides to go on strike midway—well, you're essentially in no man's land, as cell service here is as scarce as unicorns.
Now, about that time I decided to play chase with the setting sun—phenomenal! The sky erupted into a blaze of colors so mesmerizing that it felt like the universe's personal gift to me. And the solitude? Divine. It was like the mountain and I were in a private tête-à-tête.
But here comes the pièce de résistance: "Lord of the Squirrels," or LOTS for the initiated. Contrary to popular belief, this gem starts at the summit and winds its way down, making it the ultimate downhill reward for the arduous climb. Our yearly jaunts on this trail feel like an annual reunion with an old friend—one who kicks off at heavenly heights and spirals down through a paradise of natural beauty. The trail serves up a rollercoaster of terrain and the kind of adrenaline-pumping action that keeps you coming back for more, year after year.
So, in summary: thigh-burning climbs, breathtaking sunsets, and descents that make you feel like you're flying—what's not to love? It's a summer ritual that never gets old. 🐿️🚵♂️🏔️
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