M O and I crossed the valley to enjoy the not imagined like this especially gnarly Pronghorn Loop. This was actually M O’s inaugural ride; and wow plenty of bang for the buck.

Plus of course it begins at over 8000 feet.

We were treated to beautiful vistas and a plethora of rocky rock landscape. Some of the rocks, which could be towering boulders or not, had these layers which only became apparent up close. It made me think of Andy Goldsworthy.

Zoom in and see for yourself.

I found the rock puzzles to be just the right difficulty level. You know how some trails are just too much and become a hike a bike? Not like that.

Still, it was hot and hard, and at about mile 2.5, we took stock of our modest progress to time ratio, near lack of water, complete lack of food and most of the climb to go and decided to make a new route, in the shape of a spur.

Another knockout Crestone sunset.

Check it out! Along the way I found my appetite.

A great rest day.