We started the day with a group picture. We all had the option of biking an 80 or 40 mile day. 11 people accepted the 40 mile challenge up to Aspen. Alan and I decided to shuttle up to Aspen and cycle down. The entire ride was along the Rio Grande Trail.
Before beginning our ride, we strolled a bit in downtown Aspen. When we departed Aspen around 10am, the temperature was a mild 76 degrees with calm winds. The winds never gusted more than 12-14 miles per hour. The weather factor was the heat. The high temperature was around 87, however riding on blacktop on an open range had my Garmin temperature top at 115 degrees. That meant it was a very hot ride back into Glenwood Springs.
At the start of the ride, there was a brief part of the trail that was packed gravel (about four miles). Along the way, we made a stop at the Woody Creek Tavern and split a light lunch. After that stop it was mostly a low grade downhill ride; although we did pedal most of the time. It was nothing like the screaming downhills from Vail Pass earlier in the week.
I was able to use Drew’s leg compression boots after the ride. They really do loosen the muscles in the legs.
Our final dinner as a group was at Juicy Lucy’s Steakhouse. Alan chose a ribeye that was super tender and juicy. I selected that night’s special which was swordfish with gnocchi. Although it wasn’t steak, it was rewarding.
Art at a gas station in Aspen.
Cobblestone sidewalks in Aspen.
The lobby of the historic Jerome Hotel in Aspen, it has been the social hub of Aspen since its opening in 1889.
A few sculptures within the John Denver Sanctuary. The sanctuary was created in memory of legendary singer John Denver. It is located beside Rio Grande Park, offering a peaceful and contemplative escape.
Water flowing from this rock formation.
Woody Creek Tavern known to be frequented by Hunter S. Thompson (journalist for Rolling Stone from 1970-2004).
The bar side of the tavern.
Inside the bar.
The restaurant side of Woody Creek Tavern reminds me of the No Name Bar in the Florida Keys with the difference being polaroid photos on the walls here versus dollar bills at the No Name Bar.
Two pullman train cars along the trail. This one appeared to be a residence.
Posted speed limit for cyclists on this mostly downhill trail.
Roaring Fork River.
Sculpture along the trail in Carbondale.
Alan along the trail.
Abandoned railway along the trail.
Aspen Post Office
Woody Creek Post Office.