Announcement - Double Boundary Ride/Race 9/9/2006 (Taos Area)

[Timo]

Double Boundary Ride (Taos-Angel Fire-Taos)

(NM MTB Endurance Series No. 5)

When: 6:30AM - September 9, 2006
Where: Meet at The Bean Coffee Shop near Native Sons (south side of town)
What: , Epic Mountain Bike Endurance Ride/Race. ~70-miles, 12k of climbing/
Why: Because you are not getting any younger. Don’t let life’s challenges slip away.


Route Description: We will leave ASAP (be ready to ride!) from The Bean Parking Lot and head out towards Taos Canyonvia US-64 Bypass and pick up dirt trails leading to Ojitos Trail. We will climb the Ojitos Trail until it intersects with the South Boundary Trail (SBT). We will ride the beautiful SBT past Garcia Park and leave the trail at Quintana Pass. From Quintana Pass, we will ride dirt roads over to the bottom of the Jaracita Trail. We will climb Jaracita Trail up to the dirt road to Osha Mountain and pick up Elliot Barker Trail (EBT) and ride this all the way to Palo Flechado Pass. This is the only resupply area and you will need to arrange for a cache to be there (we can discuss ideas here on mtbr.com)


After replenishing your stock at Palo Flechado, we will return the way we came and climb back up to Bull Spring Meadow and ride the faint Bull Springs trail down to where we will cross US 64 and begin the climb up the north side of the canyon, via dirt roads and ride the North Boundary Trail (NBT) to Capulin Trail to Devisidero Trail and return to Taos meeting up at Eske’s Brewpub.


You can either ride or race this course – it’s up to you. You can ride some of it, all of it – what ever you chose to do. Some of you might want to just ride the NBT and perhaps meet up with the group at Palo Flechado. If so, please show up at the start so we can quickly discuss plans.


I’ll try to put together a more details route sheet. But remember you are responsible for yourself. This is in very remote backcountry and if you have not undertaken extremely difficult mountain biking rides or races, please consider something else. This is for experienced riders only.


More details to follow. But before that – please let me know who is in, and what are your questions – I’ll try my best to answer.

[Timo]

Free Maps.

Large Map, , Osha Mountain, Shady Brook, Palo Flechado Pass, Pueblo Peak, Ranchos de Taos, Taos

Suggested Maps:



Website: http://www.rei.com/product/3021873.htm

Carson N.F. Map: http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/carson/maps/index.shtml

Trail Information;
CarsonN.F. http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/carson/

Trails.com: http://www.fattire.com/Trails/Mountain-Biking/New-Mexico/Taos-Area/

Other;

The Bean; http://thebeantaos.net/

Map: http://thebeantaos.net/images/taos_map.gif

Eske’s: http://www.eskesbrewpub.com/

[Timo]

Sportsman's Report from 2005; http://forums.mtbr.com/showthread.php?t=113842

I do not know what happened to the pictures.

[bbroome]

Since the SYDC I've been wanting to do one of these, but it just hasn't worked out. My seperated shoulder is mending nicely, though, and I've been back on the ss for a few weeks now. I'd be in for sure if I owned a bike with gears or if Sportsman hadn't described the pain of doing this ride on an ss quite so vividly last year. As it stands, I'll see how Leadville goes, how my shoulder is doing, and whether I pick up a geared bike by then.

Hope it finally works out.... I'll update sometime after Leadville.

[sportsman]

Originally Posted by bbroome

. I'd be in for sure if I owned a bike with gears or if Sportsman hadn't described the pain of doing this ride on an ss quite so vividly last year..

If I do it, it'll be on the ss again...

the only way to roll

[SSweetleaf]

Count me in. I think i should be able to get a pass for this. Now let's see if i can complete it.

[Mtn. Biker123]

Hey thanks for the directions Matt. What a beautiful area. You guys are in for some great riding up there as a few of you should already know. We did get lost and never made it to SBT proper, but it was still a great ride. EBT is some of the most challenging trail I have ever encountered....Whew! I want to do it again SOON!

One of the many gorgeous meadows @ Elliot Barker



Same meadow (opp. side)




Breaktime



The climbs here are some of the most challenging you will ever see!



More climbing!



And....more climbing!



And still ....you guessed it, more climbing!



Neverending....



But worth every minute
















Do you see what I see? In that there tree!

[Timo]

Originally Posted by bbroome

Since the SYDC I've been wanting to do one of these, but it just hasn't worked out. My seperated shoulder is mending nicely, though, and I've been back on the ss for a few weeks now. I'd be in for sure if I owned a bike with gears or if Sportsman hadn't described the pain of doing this ride on an ss quite so vividly last year. As it stands, I'll see how Leadville goes, how my shoulder is doing, and whether I pick up a geared bike by then.

Hope it finally works out.... I'll update sometime after Leadville.

Cool news Brent - hope you can make it. I'll be at Leadville too, and so will a few others here I believe. As for a geared bike - shoot me an email if you are interested in buying an Intense Spider XVP. I want to unload it soon as I'll be w/o SS bike in a few days and "master plan" involves selling the Intense before things get settled out.

[Timo]

Originally Posted by sportsman

If I do it, it'll be on the ss again...

the only way to roll

Schweet! 29er going to be in the mix by then?

[Timo]

Originally Posted by SSweetleaf

Count me in. I think i should be able to get a pass for this. Now let's see if i can complete it.

Ummm let's see now - you started the "let's climb Glorietta on SS bikes trend" You and Skipndizzy are the only two ever crest Thompsen on SS bikes that I know of, and you damn well pretty much threw out the notion that Santa Fe is only for geared riders.

Naw, I don't think you'll make it. ;-)

Seriously - I'm looking forward to finally get the chance to ride with you.

[Timo]

Originally Posted by Mtn. Biker123

Hey thanks for the directions Matt. What a beautiful area. You guys are in for some great riding up there as a few of you should already know. We did get lost and never made it to SBT proper, but it was still a great ride. EBT is some of the most challenging trail I have ever encountered....Whew! I want to do it again SOON!

Thanks Bryan. I feel a little bad about hearing that you guys got lost, though - because I did put together a detailed route sheet last year, but could not find it for you. But it's music to my ears when I hear things like this on EBT. I've been telling people about it for years and always get blank looks (like....there actually OTHER trails to ride up there? )

Those climbs are certainly tough on the legs eh? Ride it a few more times and it becomes a lot easier. Just knowing what is ahead of you helps on that trail.

P.S. I only got red X's for the pcitures - anybody else?

[Mtn. Biker123]

Originally Posted by Timo

Thanks Bryan. I feel a little bad about hearing that you guys got lost, though - because I did put together a detailed route sheet last year, but could not find it for you. But it's music to my ears when I hear things like this on EBT. I've been telling people about it for years and always get blank looks (like....there actually OTHER trails to ride up there? )

Those climbs are certainly tough on the legs eh? Ride it a few more times and it becomes a lot easier. Just knowing what is ahead of you helps on that trail.

P.S. I only got red X's for the pcitures - anybody else?

We did a little clearing while we were up there too. I imagine the blank looks are from those who have "been there done that...and I'll never do it again". According to your map we got lost somewhere around this area. Right where EBT comes to a T and you see the last of the trail marker 1's in a big cow pasture we took a right and honestly don't know what happened. We would not have made it even that far if it wasn't for the play by play that you emailed me. What is ironic is we were doing fine until

Originally Posted by Timo

It's pretty easy from here. Just remember to make a right at the cow tank on the actual SBT climbing portion.

. We never did see the cow tank! Try logging in to see the pictures.

[Timo]

Originally Posted by Mtn. Biker123

We did a little clearing while we were up there too. I imagine the blank looks are from those who have "been there done that...and I'll never do it again". According to your map we got lost somewhere around this area. Right where EBT comes to a T and you see the last of the trail marker 1's in a big cow pasture we took a right and honestly don't know what happened. We would not have made it even that far if it wasn't for the play by play that you emailed me. What is ironic is we were doing fine until . We never did see the cow tank! Try logging in to see the pictures.

Ok. Did you come around to an open meadow with a fork in the trail? One way went further south and revealed went south and revealed more climbing...and the other went west? You needed to take the one heading south.

Re - pics. Still x's. Anyone else?

[Eric B]

All I see is red x's for pics as well.

[brad h]

hey matt, putting in for my hall pass. i'll keep you posted. one question, is the supply drop on top of the pass just for people allergic to guardia? i.e., any steam crossings on the route that will be flowing in sept? what about that cattle tank in the high meadow near the eb-sbt intersection? is that spring fed? why don't we just strap a b.o.b. to one of the singlespeeders and load it up with a five gallon jug? any volunteers? sportsman?

brad.

[sportsman]

Originally Posted by brad h

sportsman?

brad.

you'd have to ask nicer than that...

btw, Brad, I heard this rumor, really, it was a story, from a few different sources. They seemed pretty reliable, but ya know that you can never tell.. Something about the CB100, so I was just wondering if you had heard the same story, or maybe had even seen it with your own eyes, given the unique position that you had, finishing much faster than I did, and having a place in town that just begged for you to hang out at the Brick after the race. anyhoo, I heard that someone in a yellow kit laid his seemingly new Orbea down on the street in front of the Brick? Did you see this or hear anything?

btw, thanks for the shower, I almost felt human afterwards...

[Mtn. Biker123]

Everyone seeing my pictures now?

[sportsman]

Originally Posted by Mtn. Biker123

Everyone seeing my pictures now?

In safari I just see blue question marks.... but they are nice blue question marks..

[Timo]

The spring near Quintana pass might be pretty low by then, and then on EBT we'd be filtering cow tanks (there's actually a couple of them). I've got a buddy of mine who for some deranged reason always likes to take a pee in those things. Ain't no amount of filtering that can be done to make me wanna drink from those. But those are water options with filtering.

The north side of the valley is much drier and I can't recall seeing water sources close to the road (although there is a hugh cow pond about 300-ft below the NBT that I accidently found in a bushwacking adventure last summer).

But the restock place @ Palo Flechado is soooo close though to Bull Springs Meadow (BSM), and if you want to avoid the REALLY Steep climb back up to BSM, I have a "secret" route that just bypasses that climb and heads directly to the old farm west of the BSM. So we only lose than 15-20 mins heading over-and-back to Palo Flechado from BSM.

My other reason for Palo Flechado is that riders who have not done this route, it gives them options - and perhaps a cheeseburger, a pie, and half a side of beef if they need more nutrition restocking than say a couple of power bars. Either that or a nice option to bail.

[Timo]

The spring near Quintana pass might be pretty low by then, and then on EBT we'd be filtering cow tanks (there's actually a couple of them). I've got a buddy of mine who for some deranged reason always likes to take a pee in those things. Ain't no amount of filtering that can be done to make me wanna drink from those. But those are water options with filtering.

The north side of the valley is much drier and I can't recall seeing water sources close to the road (although there is a hugh cow pond about 300-ft below the NBT that I accidently found in a bushwacking adventure last summer).

But the restock place @ Palo Flechado is soooo close though to Bull Springs Meadow (BSM), and if you want to avoid the REALLY Steep climb back up to BSM, I have a "secret" route that just bypasses that climb and heads directly to the old farm west of the BSM. So we only lose than 15-20 mins heading over-and-back to Palo Flechado from BSM.

My other reason for Palo Flechado is that riders who have not done this route, it gives them options - and perhaps a cheeseburger, a pie, and half a side of beef if they need more nutrition restocking than say a couple of power bars. Either that or a nice option to bail.

[brad h]

Originally Posted by sportsman

you'd have to ask nicer than that...

btw, Brad, I heard this rumor, really, it was a story, from a few different sources. They seemed pretty reliable, but ya know that you can never tell.. Something about the CB100, so I was just wondering if you had heard the same story, or maybe had even seen it with your own eyes, given the unique position that you had, finishing much faster than I did, and having a place in town that just begged for you to hang out at the Brick after the race. anyhoo, I heard that someone in a yellow kit laid his seemingly new Orbea down on the street in front of the Brick? Did you see this or hear anything?

btw, thanks for the shower, I almost felt human afterwards...

how do those rumors get started? it was rugged, rash from my ankle to my hip, i guess a 25mph bmx hockey stop at mile 101 with an enormous audience wasn't such a great idea in retrospect...

[Timo]

Originally Posted by brad h

how do those rumors get started? it was rugged, rash from my ankle to my hip, i guess a 25mph bmx hockey stop at mile 101 with an enormous audience wasn't such a great idea in retrospect...

I do believe that would be called.....................what else but ;

The Alabama Crimson Slide.

[Mtn. Biker123]

My pics are up finally..

[Timo]

Got email from our firend in Rico. El Freako from Rico will be riding this on SS bike. You wil not be alone!

Actually I'll consider converting the Wily back for this....

Should be a pretty darn good group - Still trying to get ahold of Fred M - I know he was interested in this one as well.

[brad h]

- Still trying to get ahold of Fred M - I know he was interested in this one as well.[/quote]

matt, are you refering to fast freddy from longmont? the bada$$ who finished the cb race in 9 hours on a rigid single? i can probably scare up a phone # or an email address if we're talking about the same guy. let me know.

brad.

[Timo]

Originally Posted by brad h

- Still trying to get ahold of Fred M - I know he was interested in this one as well.

matt, are you refering to fast freddy from longmont? the bada$$ who finished the cb race in 9 hours on a rigid single? i can probably scare up a phone # or an email address if we're talking about the same guy. let me know.

brad.[/quote]

That be him.....I got a message sent out already.

[SSweetleaf]

Does anyone know of any good camp sites in the Taos area for me and the familia? Prolly camp out on that Friday. Thanks

[brad h]

Hall pass applied for and granted. I'll be driving up on the afternoon of the eighth and probably camping at the Comfort Inn or Holiday Inn or whatever is close to the meeting place. I'll probably be available to drive up the pass the day before to drop bladders, bottles, fish sandwiches, pills, syringes etc...

[Mtn. Biker123]

Originally Posted by SSweetleaf

Does anyone know of any good camp sites in the Taos area for me and the familia? Prolly camp out on that Friday. Thanks

Taos Valley RV is clean well layed out.

[Mtn. Biker123]

Originally Posted by SSweetleaf

Does anyone know of any good camp sites in the Taos area for me and the familia? Prolly camp out on that Friday. Thanks

Taos Valley RV is clean well layed out.

[sportsman]

Fred M e-mailed and said that he is in, or at least very interestefd and asking for details/drive time etc...

[SSweetleaf]

Originally Posted by Mtn. Biker123

Taos Valley RV is clean well layed out.

Yeaa that looks like a good choice. Thanks Bryan.

[Timo]

A couple of decent motels are the El Pueblo Lodge and Sun God Lodge.
Sun God is next door to The Bean and El Pueblo is a few blocks from Eskes. We got a room at El Pueblo with 3 beds in it last year - so if some of you want to split costs for a room, i'd suggest this place. Some of those old room are huge.

I'm in at the Sun God - they still have rooms as of 8/8. Remember the Enchanted Circle Ride is going on this weekend as well as the Top of the World MTB Race in Red River. Places to stay will be scarce, so better book now.

[brad h]

will the bean be open?

[Timo]

Originally Posted by brad h

will the bean be open?

Prolly not. Give them call if you want though...they might brew an early pot for us.

[Dropin%Dug]

Originally Posted by Timo

(like....there actually OTHER trails to ride up there? )

Those climbs are certainly tough on the legs eh? Ride it a few more times and it becomes a lot easier. Just knowing what is ahead of you helps on that trail.

Cool...I see this is going to be a loop. I've never ridden the "North Boundary Trail"....that ought to be interesting.

Still thinking about it....

T...how'd Leadville go???

[Timo]

Originally Posted by Dropin%Dug

Cool...I see this is going to be a loop. I've never ridden the "North Boundary Trail"....that ought to be interesting.

Still thinking about it....

T...how'd Leadville go???

NBT is primitive dirt roads leading to primitive Capulin Trail leading to rocking Devisidero. Last 11-miles or so are an absolute descending blast when there is no overgrowth - but this year? Errrr.....could be time to take in a few scratches on the arms and legs.

Unless anyone wants to help out with some clearing. Anybody wanna ride NBT this weekend? Moderate pace with some trail clearing thrown on in.?

Doug - not haven ridden with you - I'd probabaly suggest that you do "the other" ride. Our Palo Flechado SAG crew will be riding the EBT-SBT in opposite direction of us. That route is the one in "red" on the loop map shown here - and also the elevation profile that goes along with it. (Note to others...the "blue" is really no straight like that it goes up and down the canyons with lots of switchbacks....ha!)

Leadville? Brent Broome is the new SS Sherrif in town though - Sportsman beware - Brent cranked out a 9:00:28 ride time.
He even said he will be there for the DBT too. Hmmmm, El Freako from Rico, SSweatleaf, Sportsman, Fred M, and now new kid Brent....this is like a SS Showdown in the old west.

Scott - now all you gotta do is talk Ken K in to coming.

[Timo]

Similiar to last year, we will ride the Double Boundary Trail from Taos to near Angel Fire and then back to Taos - AND there will also be the "other" ride - which will start at Palo Flechado and ride Elliot Barker Trail to South Boundary Trail. Again this year it will be led by Erik P.

The "other" riders should meet up at 7:00AM at The Bean and be prepared to shuttle to Palo Flechado. This group will also carry the first groups water and resupplies and serve as a partial SAG.

Foto of the other group from last year....



This "other" ride is very, very strenuous as well. If you don't think you can make the DBT but think you can make this one, please post here as well so we can get an idea on the # of riders. Just indicate which ride you plan on attending.

[Mtn. Biker123]

Originally Posted by Timo

Unless anyone wants to help out with some clearing. Anybody wanna ride NBT this weekend? Moderate pace with some trail clearing thrown on in.?

Doug - not haven ridden with you - I'd probabaly suggest that you do "the other" ride. Our Palo Flechado SAG crew will be riding the EBT-SBT in opposite direction of us. That route is the one in "red" on the loop map shown here - and also the elevation profile that goes along with it. (Note to others...the "blue" is really no straight like that it goes up and down the canyons with lots of switchbacks....ha!)

I'd have to agree Doug, not that I do not have the utmost confidence in your ability/endurance. I just think that in oder to get the most bang for your buck you should start on the SBT side. I have done both Devisedero and EBT neither of them are very forgiving (downright torture). SBT would not be that difficult of a climb and Elliot Barker and Devisidero would be K!ck A$$ as a descent. My two cents

[sportsman]

freako from rico will not be there (I talked to him after he spanked me at the PP)

Fred is reserving commitment until he see how he recovers from M ontezuma

I don't really expect to ride

[Timo]

Originally Posted by sportsman

freako from rico will not be there (I talked to him after he spanked me at the PP)

Fred is reserving commitment until he see how he recovers from M ontezuma

I don't really expect to ride

Bummer....

[Dropin%Dug]

....I hear ya....then again, ya haven't ridden with me. Not real fast, but I am steady....70 miles and 12000' of climbing. Tain't sceerd!!! Got a 22lb HT that can handle that.

Well....just to figure it out, Sandra and I will most likely head up to Tao's Saturday evening to ride the NBT. I've done SBT although not up the Elliot Barker. We've always done the Wagon Wheel mount if you will.

Timo, what you guys planning??? I could ride and clear anything I find along the way.

So give me some directions on how to access the NBT....

[Dropin%Dug]

Well...no NBT this weekend for us...just too damn wet. Hung around town and rode the foothills.

Matt, I'm still on the fence about going up for the "challenge". Sandra has the girls that weekend so she's opt'ed out. It'll probably be a "game time" decision for me.

I'm thinkin' if I do go, I'll head out with you folks on the South Boundary climb and get out to Osho Pass. From there I can make a decision on heading down EBT or just heading back on the SBT. I'll probably run into the "other" riders at some point so I can assess then how I'm doing.

[SSweetleaf]

Hey Doug. Are you thinking about the DBT ride? If so i think you should go for it. Pedal at your own pace. I will be back there with ya.

[Timo]

Originally Posted by Dropin%Dug

Well...no NBT this weekend for us...just too damn wet. Hung around town and rode the foothills.

Matt, I'm still on the fence about going up for the "challenge". Sandra has the girls that weekend so she's opt'ed out. It'll probably be a "game time" decision for me.

I'm thinkin' if I do go, I'll head out with you folks on the South Boundary climb and get out to Osho Pass. From there I can make a decision on heading down EBT or just heading back on the SBT. I'll probably run into the "other" riders at some point so I can assess then how I'm doing.

That's a darn good plan Doug. Hope you can make it. The more the merrier and there will be plenty of people out there. I know the EBT-SBT group is getting to be fairly large (wish Sandra could make it), but for anyone who is on the fence about the full DBT - Doug has a great idea there.

[Timo]

Time Bump.

I'm thinking of having everyone meet at 6:30AM, and perhaps altering the start location to make sure Java is available. I know there are two awesome java shops downtown Taos - but dunno their opening time, and I don't know The Beans start time. Does anyone wanna research this for us and post what they find?

[sportsman]

[quote=Timo Does anyone wanna research this for us and post what they find?[/QUOTE]


cuz that what I do......


The Bean usually opens at 6 on Saturdays, but occasionally they open at 6:30

[Timo]

Start Time Change

When: 6:30AM - September 9, 2006
Where: Meet at The Bean Coffee Shop near Native Sons (south side of town)

The Bean opens at 6AM normally. so try to get your morning cup of Joe before the start time ok? Also bring along a small light to put in your drop bag.

It's getting close and I can't wait for the ride! How is everyone else doing?

[RichardinLA]

Originally Posted by Timo

Meet at The Bean Coffee Shop near Native Sons (south side of town

The Bean opens at 6AM normally. so try to get your morning cup of Joe before the start time ok? Also bring along a small light to put in your drop bag.

I'll be there! After much discussion with the S.O., reflection on my part, and preparation... I am commited to the whole enchilada. I will not be relying on a drop zone. I will have my calories packed. I will have my 100oz camelback and an extra bottle, along with a Katadyn mini to filter the frequent streams we will encounter.

My only limiting factor will be no lights. I gave considerable thought to this, and came to the conclusion that I just cannot justify the purchase. So long as the route is in the 70ish miles and I can at least maintain a fast hikers pace (reality is that I'll be trucking along much faster than that), I will be done before or right at dark. This means I am going to be of the mentality the whole time that I am racing the clock. Absolutely no leisurely lunch and no long pauses to take in the scenery. Hopefully this will be acceptable. SAYING THIS though, I will still accept a borrowing of a light, and will save room in my pack if someone cares to lend me theirs. Thanks.

Can't wait. I'm booked at the Best Western Kachina Lodge, and will either be at The Bean right at 6:30, or maybe earlier if the weather is chilly and I need a cup of decaf to warm up. I'll be in the Turner Suspension yellow jersery (though my bike is a Rocky Mountain Element). The only way I'm missing this, at this point, is if the flu hits Los Alamos. Having 2 kids in different schools guarantees I'll catch whatever comes our way. So far though, so good!

Richard

[Timo]

Just a few thoughts -

I heard from a lot of people on this so the turnout should be good, and might even be overwhelming. Forgive if I miss some one, but for the committed I have thus far;
Timo, Brad h, RichardinLA, Sportsman, dave k (plus a couple of friends), SSweatleaf, Tri Dog, bbroome, and perhaps a few others (Lenny, El Jefe, Droppin Doug, FredM, Glenzx, ??)

We also will have the EBT-SBT group starting at Palo Flechado - this is the cache point. A person from that group will collect cache bags at 6:30AM at The Bean and haul them out there. (please make sure to thank them!) Keep valuables to youself, as these bags might just be left in the back of a truck.

Another thought is perhaps running this in the opposite direction this year
Devisidero-Capulin-NBT-Palo Flechado-EBT-Jaracita-SBT. Sounds too easy though so I'd suggest we climb Ojitos then descend on the last bit of SBT before we start up Devisidero. ha!

Anyway we would have the group staying together through the mostly unknown areas early on. Then towards then end of the day, people can finish at their own pace on EBT/SBT. Downside is the tougher climb on the primitive Capulin trail - but EBT will be much, much easier. Half the journey at moderately fast group pace (obviously if riders are so far overmatched early on we certainly will have to seperate) then we finish up at the pace we want to.

Let's hear your thoughts. Scott and I are really the only ones who know the route - and i suspect everything on the North side is a blur for Scott. It would be nice to end this on the SBT.

[sportsman]

I'm ambivalent to the direction, although from what I remember of the final descents last year, they would be some incredibly difficult, early leg burning climbing.

Also, 2 or 3 other guys from Los Alamos are planning on playing with us.

ps. if you do it in reverse, then you might have to DNF me right away. I will be riding the rock garden down instead of Ojitos. In my notso humble opinion, descending the rock garden is much more fun than descending the whoopdedoos (although they are incredible rocky right now)

[sportsman]

Originally Posted by RichardinLA

I'll be there! After much discussion with the S.O., reflection on my part, and preparation... I am commited to the whole enchilada. I will not be relying on a drop zone. I will have my calories packed. I will have my 100oz camelback and an extra bottle, along with a Katadyn mini to filter the frequent streams we will encounter.

that won't be enough liquid for the whole ride. And I don't think that you should rely on encountering a stream. the drop is an easy thing, we bring our goods and pass them on to the other group, and they leave them in a car just past Elliot Barker. Last year I nearly drained my 100 oz camelback before the drop zone, and I topped off at Garcia.

and, so long as I understand Matt correctly, he isn't necessarily talking HID or night riding lights. I'm bringing a small LED tha I use for commuting around LA, and red blinkie light. Hopefully, it won't be necessary, and if they are necessary, hopefully, it'll only be the final few miles into Taos at dusk.

This ride is a hard, long 70 mile ride, the guy concerned about lights is the guy that knows the course, and is very familiar with long endurorides, and what can happen during these rides. His name is Timo..

[Timo]

Originally Posted by sportsman

I'm ambivalent to the direction, although from what I remember of the final descents last year, they would be some incredibly difficult, early leg burning climbing.

Also, 2 or 3 other guys from Los Alamos are planning on playing with us.

ps. if you do it in reverse, then you might have to DNF me right away. I will be riding the rock garden down instead of Ojitos. In my notso humble opinion, descending the rock garden is much more fun than descending the whoopdedoos (although they are incredible rocky right now)

Oh, no question we'd descend the rock garden. No way could we miss that. What I'd like to do is find that lower route from the ojitos tail end on over to the bridge area of SBT - then cut over to Devisidero.

I climbed up Devisidero andCapulin 3 season ago with Dr. Faustus and Big Jim. I recall it was difficult but not entirely all that bad of a climb - but we had to hike a bike up a primitive area at the end of Capulin, which is very, very similiar to the straight up hiking wall on the Glorietta Baldy Trail just right after the Ghost Town. I'd say it's the singlespeeders call - when do you want your most difficult moments - early on or in the middle of EBT - just right before the cache.

I absolutely love the arm chairs, BTW.

[Timo]

Originally Posted by sportsman

that won't be enough liquid for the whole ride. And I don't think that you should rely on encountering a stream. the drop is an easy thing, we bring our goods and pass them on to the other group, and they leave them in a car just past Elliot Barker. Last year I nearly drained my 100 oz camelback before the drop zone, and I topped off at Garcia.

and, so long as I understand Matt correctly, he isn't necessarily talking HID or night riding lights. I'm bringing a small LED tha I use for commuting around LA, and red blinkie light. Hopefully, it won't be necessary, and if they are necessary, hopefully, it'll only be the final few miles into Taos at dusk.

This ride is a hard, long 70 mile ride, the guy concerned about lights is the guy that knows the course, and is very familiar with long endurorides, and what can happen during these rides. His name is Timo..

There will be some nasty places to filter from fo sure! Filtered cow urine, how tasty!

Lights - it's getting darker earlier everyday. If you aren't bring a light then please make sure to bail early enough if you run into trouble. Schtuff happens and I for one would hate to be on US 64 without a blinking light (which I have been before, btw). small LED and rear blinker for me - and hopefully for everyone else as well.

[D-Rock and Roll]

How many of you guys are planning on going at a pretty good pace? I'd like to hit it pretty good but don't really know the NBT and don't want to use lights either. Anyone looking at a sub 9 or 10hr time?
I'll need a little recovery time to try and win the Top of The World MTB race in Red River the next day.

[Timo]

Originally Posted by D-Rock and Roll

How many of you guys are planning on going at a pretty good pace? I'd like to hit it pretty good but don't really know the NBT and don't want to use lights either. Anyone looking at a sub 9 or 10hr time?
I'll need a little recovery time to try and win the Top of The World MTB race in Red River the next day.

Well the Dirt Devil himself wants to come out and spank us before he puts on a show for the hillbillies up in Red River? But forget the "rest" part before the race - you still have to survive the brew at Eske's afterward!

Manic Dave Harris *might* come and same with Fast Freddie M of Boulder. I'm sure they are thinking the same thing as you. 10hr time should be in the card for everybody and it this can obviously be done much faster. But you can also bail to US64 at anytime - same goes for anyone else..

That said we'll start out similiar to how we rode at the Watermelon Death Ride last month.

NBT - I have the OFFICIAL 2 part map complete with route descriptions of the North Boundary Trail - this was produces (GPS) by a local with the Taos Cycle Club. Maps on one side and directions on the other. Contact the Taos Cycle club for copies or stop by either of the 2 bikes shops in Taos to pick up copies. I can make copies too - but not in color.

I'll post the NBT short directions.

Don't miss this......

[Timo]

This is assuming we are coming from Palo Flechado.

From Palo Flechado, follow the Elliot Barker Trail uphill for a couple of miles and take a right when you intersect with the "other" or east leg of EBT (dirt road). Turn right toward Bull Springs Meadow. Go through the cattle fence and you will be in a huge meadow show here (thanks Bryan!);


There will be a sign pointing to the EBT and also US64 (there might even be a name for the trail). Obviously all you see is grass in the picture - just ride accross this meadow in the direction of the arrow on the sign - you will entre a grove of trees, Aspen I think. Grass will be tall in here and you will be going downhill - go slow and look for a rock cairn (should be to your right) and that is the gateway to a nice and gnarly dirt road heading down toward US 64. (ignore the parallel singletrack offshoots - all lead to deafall traps). Follow this road downhill to US g4 and it will be obvious where to go from here - there is a dirt road accross US 64 on the other side - this if FR 706.

Once you cross FR 706, you will immediately climb. You may choose to ride the parallel cow trails - but they peter out after the big pond and you will have to open field it (like Scott did last year). Any this will be a significant but short climb up the North side of Taos canyon. When you come to an intersection take a left - this will be FR706A. Follow FR706A all the way to a gate. Open it, ride through it, and in a 1/2 mile you will reach another gate on the same fence - go through it and continue on your way. The road will descend after this and you will come to FR 10A2. Ignore all roads that head straight down to the bottom of Taos Canyon (there are many!). You will now follow the contours of the north rim of the canyon.

From FR 10A2 you will eventually come to an intersection - either way is fine, but we will take left road. Follow this dirt road FR10A west. Go through the gate, and you will come out at Capulin Canyon. Head downhill (left) for 1/3 mile and look to your right for the start of the Capulin to Devisidero Trail.

There should be a carsonite sign to mark this. You will immediately be on FR717 and follow this in a westerly direction. At the first intersection head west (left). Follow the primitive FR-717 for several miles and you will pass over several ridges - just keep heading west and don't turn downhill to US64. It should be obvious. Then out of the blue..after you are sick of this neverending friggin fire road...a carsonite sign and singletrack appear to your right.

Climb up this technical but fun trail and you will crest soon near the boundary fence. The trail then heads downhill through some of the wildest and gnarliest switchbacks you will encounter. BUT.....the trail makes an ABRUPT right turn...most people blow on by this and end up far down the canyon (ummmmm, Scott?). Do NOT miss this turn. From here the trail will be overgrown with scrub oak. Tracking skills for a short while will be needed. Also lookout for the 4-ft rocky ledge hidden by the scrub oak. Big Jim lost a tire here a few years back. Once you go through this look immediately to your right and go through the overgrown area here. Trail path should be obvious though. Hard to describe the rest - but yes it will require some tracking skills. Cairns, downed logs and rocks, and some carsonite should guide you - but there are at least 3 intersections that can be confusing. Don't follow the animal paths - follow the choices marked by humans, ok? Look for rock piles, etc.

Switchbacks, and terrain similiar to Otero from here, then you eventually come to a more well worn intersection. DO NOT TURN LEFT AND HEAD DOWN INTO THE CANYON. Yes, it's a familiar theme, eh? Turn right and within a few minutes you will be at the top of Devisidero. Take whatever route you want. Left (going uphill first) is my favorite.

But I suggest you guys pick up the maps from the Taos Cycle Club. These are key. Nobody showed me these routes - I just followed the excellent directions on these maps.

[Timo]

One more thing......

Note - this is not a group ride, there is no obligation to regroup, nor is there any requirement for people to slow down their pace. You could call this a dirt brevet. The information is here to get you through the route - but if you are afraid of going about it on your own - then definately try to keep pace with either myself or Scott. We will help out as much as possible - but we do want to finish this as well at our own pace, and if you have trouble keeping up (or slowing down) - then please be prepared to navigate on your own.

[sportsman]

I intend to have a Fatty and a few beers before sunset, with no intentions of using my lights (which will be safely tucked into my camelback, JIC)

[brad h]

i'd be psyched to go clockwise and get the south b. descent...but then again i've never done the north...and i have a custom made ti 20tooth for a granny...so i agree it should be up to the rowboaters...

[Timo]

I say we do clockwise, then. The rough stuff early on is confined to a 6-mile area. After watching Scott suffer on the longer steeps on EBT last year going in the other direction, I'd rather have everyone be rewarded at the end. Also, this way people will be pretty close riding together early on through the tricky areas. Anyway I will scan the maps and directions for NBT that i have and will give send to anyone who wants them - with the caveat being the offer is only good for those coming to the DBT.

And once we hit the EBT - then pretty much everyone can finish at their pace. My guess is that we all pretty much will ride together on NBT.

[sportsman]

rowboaters...pshaw.....

we gonna get to see some bmx-style hockey braking?

i say right in front of eskes at the end of the day, I'll have the camera...

[SSweetleaf]

rowboaters???? Is that a knock on the people that are riding bikes with one gear?

[brad h]

is what i used to call it when i rode one (ss) religiously before my left knee cried uncle...you're standing there on some steep pitch yanking on those wide risers as if you're rowing a boat...

no offense implied, and yeah sportsman, you can count on a hi-speed hipcheck from me at the end of the day

[sportsman]

Originally Posted by brad h

and yeah sportsman, you can count on a hi-speed hipcheck from me at the end of the day

bring it big guy....

this'll be two big rides in 8 weeks that you finish the day wearing rash from head to toe

besides wherever did you get the idea that I'm going ot be going hi-speed at the end of the day? I'm just hoping to finish before dark, and before you guys drink all the stout...

[Mtn. Biker123]

Originally Posted by Timo

I say we do clockwise, then. The rough stuff early on is confined to a 6-mile area. After watching Scott suffer on the longer steeps on EBT last year going in the other direction, I'd rather have everyone be rewarded at the end. Also, this way people will be pretty close riding together early on through the tricky areas. Anyway I will scan the maps and directions for NBT that i have and will give send to anyone who wants them - with the caveat being the offer is only good for those coming to the DBT.

And once we hit the EBT - then pretty much everyone can finish at their pace. My guess is that we all pretty much will ride together on NBT.

So will you guys be going NBT to EBT to SBT, if so I might meet meet up with you guys on SBT coming from the 4mi climb from AF. Don't want to get caught up on EBT with the SS. What is the best route coming into SBT from Angel Fire? I also want to make sure that I intersect TR1 and SBT so I get familiar with the intersection as this is where I got lost on the last misadventure.

[Timo]

Originally Posted by Mtn. Biker123

So will you guys be going NBT to EBT to SBT, if so I might meet meet up with you guys on SBT coming from the 4mi climb from AF. Don't want to get caught up on EBT with the SS. What is the best route coming into SBT from Angel Fire? I also want to make sure that I intersect TR1 and SBT so I get familiar with the intersection as this is where I got lost on the last misadventure.

Bryan -

You might not even have to go to AF - perhaps just start at Valles Escondido and return up the route that you guys mistakenly went down. We should run into you at that point on the trail if you go early and take a long nap. :-) Also Erik's group will be coming through there too.

As for other options - I have no earthly clue on how to get from AF to SBT. Sorry.

Ohh...and Sportsman can have all of the stout he wants. I just there for the IPA.

[Mtn. Biker123]

Originally Posted by Timo

Bryan -

You might not even have to go to AF - perhaps just start at Valles Escondido and return up the route that you guys mistakenly went down. We should run into you at that point on the trail if you go early and take a long nap. :-) Also Erik's group will be coming through there too.

As for other options - I have no earthly clue on how to get from AF to SBT. Sorry.

Ohh...and Sportsman can have all of the stout he wants. I just there for the IPA.

Someone told me there is a TH at Black Lake that will take you up to SBT...anyone know?

[sportsman]

yup

sure is

[ChiRho]

Originally Posted by Mtn. Biker123

Someone told me there is a TH at Black Lake that will take you up to SBT...anyone know?

I've got a pdf file I can send you with a pretty good description of how to get to the trailhead from either Taos or Angel Fire. Shoot me your email and I'll send it off.
Chris

[Mtn. Biker123]

Originally Posted by sportsman

yup

sure is

Lots of help...thanks.

[Timo]

So I spent my Labor Day doing some work on the NBT. I am happy to report that the trail is in excellent shape and is currently marked from end to end. If you have a vague idea of the trail, well now you can ride it and find your way through. So for those who want to race, have at it. For those who want to ride, enjoy.

While I was cruising down a section of primitive logging road and a pretty good clip, I thought myself - wow look at the seriously black coyote that is running in front of me. Hey that not a coyote, and it ain't a dog either! About the time I realize that I am chasing a bear cub, the bear's mother comes on out - but runs in the direction of the cub.

This was amazing - but I learned one very important thing: when a sow and her cub are running FROM you - don't do a thing. If you get the urge to yell like you are herding cattle - like I did - it only causes the sow to think "stop childeren, what's that sound, everybody look what's going down" Uh-oh.....the bear and cub are now stopped and looking back at me. We stared at each other for what seemed like an eternity and I inadvertantly took 2 steps back. Fortunately the bear and cub turned back around ran further away - this time off of the trail.

Anyway - the "rowboaters" are gonna love this. The steep grade up the technical Devisidero and then the slight grade up the narrow Capulin are gonna make this a climbers show early on. NBT alone (not including the ride from town) will be approximately 5000-ft of climbing in 29-miles.

Oh and unlike SBT - the views are amazing. I'll try to post more detail directions later going in this direction.

[RichardinLA]

Originally Posted by Timo

Anyway - the "rowboaters" are gonna love this. The steep grade up the technical Devisidero and then the slight grade up the narrow Capulin are gonna make this a climbers show early on. NBT alone (not including the ride from town) will be approximately 5000-ft of climbing in 29-miles.

Oh and unlike SBT - the views are amazing. I'll try to post more detail directions later going in this direction.

So, the views along the SBT are crap? I'm out then.

Seriously, thanks for your work on checking/prepping this route. I must admit that I shuddered a bit at the thought of 5K climbing over 29 miles (Makes the recent 2-3K climb over 25 miles Pajarito Punishment race seem paltry).

MAN, am I going to pay for this.

[Timo]

A few more notes;

1. DBT ride starts at 6:30AM at The Bean. Sportsman, SSweatleaf, Brad H, Lenny G, Jens N, Brent B, Nate B, Richard in LA, Dave K, Damian C, David W, Fred M and a couple of others whom I don't know are signed on. A few others are possible - Glenzx, etc - and also some of Bryans group might try to join up near Osha Peak. Sorry if I am missing anyone else.

2. The EBT-SBT group is meeting at The Bean at 7:00AM. They will carry the DBT's SAG-Bags to Palo Flechado. There are close to 10 riders in this group, and it willbe a shuttle from Palo Flechado back to Taos.

[Mtn. Biker123]

Originally Posted by Timo

A few more notes;

1. DBT ride starts at 6:30AM at The Bean. Sportsman, SSweatleaf, Brad H, Lenny G, Jens N, Brent B, Nate B, Richard in LA, Dave K, Damian C, David W and a couple of others whom I don't know are signed on. A few others are possible - Glenzx, etc - and also some of Bryans group might try to join up near Osha Peak. Sorry if I am missing anyone else.

2. The EBT-SBT group is meeting at The Bean at 7:00AM. They will carry the DBT's SAG-Bags to Palo Flechado. There are close to 10 riders in this group, and it willbe a shuttle from Palo Flechado back to Taos.

Timo, I need to know if you are starting on SBT or NBT...I am (if I can make it) will be coming from Taos and doing the SBT DH. Will I catch you guys on the up from SBT or on the way down from NBT? Thanks!

[Timo]

Originally Posted by Mtn. Biker123

Timo, I need to know if you are starting on SBT or NBT...I am (if I can make it) will be coming from Taos and doing the SBT DH. Will I catch you guys on the up from SBT or on the way down from NBT? Thanks!

Direction will be NBT to EBT to Jaracita to SBT via Quintana Pass. See ya!

[sportsman]

fast freddy is showing up on his ss wily.. although he says he doesn't want to go fast...

[Mtn. Biker123]

Originally Posted by Timo

A few more notes;

1. DBT ride starts at 6:30AM at The Bean. Sportsman, SSweatleaf, Brad H, Lenny G, Jens N, Brent B, Nate B, Richard in LA, Dave K, Damian C, David W, Fred M and a couple of others whom I don't know are signed on. A few others are possible - Glenzx, etc - and also some of Bryans group might try to join up near Osha Peak. Sorry if I am missing anyone else.

2. The EBT-SBT group is meeting at The Bean at 7:00AM. They will carry the DBT's SAG-Bags to Palo Flechado. There are close to 10 riders in this group, and it willbe a shuttle from Palo Flechado back to Taos.

Guess I will need to meet at The Bean by 7am if I want to have any chance of securing the shuttle to my destination. Hmmm...maybe I will try EBT again.

[Timo]

Originally Posted by Mtn. Biker123

Guess I will need to meet at The Bean by 7am if I want to have any chance of securing the shuttle to my destination. Hmmm...maybe I will try EBT again.

That's the group to do it with! Two guys on that ride - Erik & Mike - both know the route and either one of them can take on a black bear if need be. :-)

[Timo]

Originally Posted by sportsman

fast freddy is showing up on his ss wily.. although he says he doesn't want to go fast...

What is slow for Fred might very well be quite fast for a lot of us. :-)

Do you have your 29er yet?

[sportsman]

definitely and nope

[Timo]

Ok, here they are. Make sure to review and ask questions ASAP! I will not be checking email after noon on Friday. See you at The Bean at 6:30AM on Saturday. (be ready to ride by 6:30!)


Please note that these directions might be in error and that you will need to use a map and be responsible for yourself. These were pulled from memory and conditions might have changed.

Double Boundary Ride

The ride will start in and go in a clockwise direction up and around Taos and head clockwise around Taos Canyon. Route is generally North Boundary to Elliot Barker Trail to Jaracita Trail to South Boundary Trail.

North Boundary Directions

From town ride as group over to Devisidero Trailhead.

1. Devisidero Trail– and at first trail intersection go straight (left hand trail). After ~2.5 miles come to signed intersection. Turn left for Capulin Trail. This trail is marked by USFS.

2. Capulin Trail + forest roads to Capulin Road - Follow Pink flags, then later Orange flags. Many switchbacks. Come to hike-a-bike (400-ft climb) and this is crest of singletrack. Descend to old forest road and follow it. At 1st forest road intersection, turn right. At completion of trail you will come to an intersection – with double post sign from NM Wildlife Habitat. Turn left here. Follow road and orange flags and eventually it will come to a “dead end” with a gate and “Do Not Trespass” signs. Look to your right for the singletrack heading uphill. This is marked with Blue Flags and will intersect with FR 10A. Orange flags from here on out.

3. FR10A to FR10A2 to FR706A – Follow Orange flags. Go through fence gate 2 times, and then on big final descent take paths toward the bottom of the canyon. We descend to US64 highway.

OK Canyon Cutover to Palo Flechado.

Cross US 64 and go through gate (signed forest service scenic area). Head due south through the grass – or pick up meandering cow paths to tree line directly in front of you. Once at tree line turn right and then left turn up OK Canyon – this is obvious as it is the only canyon to gradually take you up to Bull Springs Meadow. Eventually an old forest logging road will appear. Ignore all singletrack offshoots. The road will peter out into a grassy area with Aspens and other trees all around. Look for rock Cairn and turn left. This will take you to Bull Springs Meadow and head to the meadow crest. A USFS Sign marking the EBT is here.

At Bull Springs Meadow, follow the path straight and go through the cattle fence. Follow dirt road and take first left (singletrack). This will take you directly to Palo Flechado. Descend on awesome singletrack until you run into fence and US 64. You are now at Palo Flechado. Eat, Drink and be Merry.

Elliot Barker Trail Directions.

1. Starting from Palo Flechado, cross US 64, open the gate – Turn LEFT and head DOWNHILL. Do not retrace your path back up EBT... We will do this section of EBT clockwise heading down to actual EBT Trailhead (also at US 64) and then climbing back up to Bull Springs Meadow. Follow all signs and ignore all singletrack leading off this trail.

2. After Bull Springs Meadow - make sure you turn LEFT (southeast) here as per the sign - you will climb through the woods and then descend eventually to Brazos Drive (the pass with the power lines running through it). As you descend, stay to your left.

3. Brazos Drive/Powerline Pass - Go through the gate in the fence. You will see a dirt two track immediately after the gate, and about 100 yards from the gate (south side) there is a small clearing in the woods (small cairn) to your left. In this clearing, a steep incline starts up and you can’t see a trail here. Climb the incline (maybe 20-ft ele gain?), and the trail appears. The carsonite sign is missing here too. This is MAJOR! If you miss this section of the EBT...and stay on the dirt 2-track (FR 70A) you end up on the Tienditas trail and add extra miles.

4. From here the trail should be well marked with Carsonite signs all the way up to Osha Meadow. However, after you hook up on the single track from Brazos - you climb up and start riding on a ridge that gives you EXCELLENT views to your right - you are on the WESTERN slope of the ridge. Remember this. After this, you start a descent that is in a grassy section with small trees about 3-4 ft from the trail you eventually descend to a right hand turn - a sharp turn. Immediately after this right hand turn, look to your left - there is a field of stumps and fallen trees covered with buffalo grass. Look for the trail on the left hand side - again heading south. Do not head west. If you continue with the forest grade heading west, you will descend into the wrong valley. Sharp right, the look for trail on left.


When in doubt head south.

5. There is great descent after this, the very, very steep one that has some
switchbacks and crosses a black-muddy creek. You then cross a graded dirt road after this, all headed in a southerly direction. The trail gets a little faint here, but keep heading south and you should pick it up looks like a lot of cattle traffic here as well.

6. Osha Meadow. This is a huge meadow. Turn left (uphill) on the dirt road and you reach an intersection and then head south, following a road. On this road,
you will pass through a fence. All you will see here is a meadow and a dirt road. On your left hand side it is all grassy - ride through the grass to the treeline and ride the treeline South until you pick up signs and the EBT (# 1) trail. If you don’t you will miss some cool singletrack and head over to Valle Escondido (not good!).

7. There is one other confusing meadow interface which comes after a very
cool section of singletrack at high elevation (you will know what I’m describing
after you ride it) that morphs into 2-track - but you are now on the EASTERN
slope of the ridge. Basically a straight shot through the woods, but very
beautiful, aand where I ran into a bear 2 years ago! Anyway - after riding through
this section you are on a 2-track that gradually turns WEST in a meadow-
like area. When you come to an intersection take the trail on your left (south)
and DO NOT head due WEST. If you do you’ll head back to where you came
from and do a repeat loop. Yeah, this sounds a little confusing, but just
remember, NEVER HEAD DUE WEST. Ok?

When in doubt head south.

8. EBT ends at the Green Cattle Tank on South Boundary Trail and climb OSHA Peak.


OSHA Peak to Jaracita Trail


Once you reach the anticlimactic OSHA Peak – where the South Boundary Trail runs into a forest road – turn left (south) instead of the usual right turn most people make on this section of the SBT. Ride this down hill for a little over a mile and to your right look for a primitive Hunter’s Campground. This is the start of the Jaracita Trail. There is a sign here, but it might be lying on the ground.

The Jaracita Trail heads west, so turn right off of the road. The trail splits early, but take either path as they reconnect again. Follow this trail downhill, and after you come to the old shack, turn right and still head downhill past the 4 Beaver Ponds. You will come out on a graded forest road. Turn right – climb uphill – and follow this for a few miles until you reach the cow meadow on your right – this heads to Quintana Pass. Turn right on the two-track here and follow this until it intersects with a fence. The South Boundary Trail is on the other side of the fence. Turn left and ride that trail to Taos.

South Boundary Trail

Trail is well marked all the way intoTaos. Follow the signs and meet up at Eske’s


You have just completed the Double Boundary!

[RichardinLA]

Originally Posted by Timo

Ok, here they are. Make sure to review and ask questions ASAP! I will not be checking email after noon on Friday. See you at The Bean at 6:30AM on Saturday. (be ready to ride by 6:30!)

Only one quick question... is it cool to leave vehicles in the parking lot of The Bean? I could probably leave the subbie at the hotel, but that would entail more biking. Trying to keep any extra miles off the radar.

So far, looks like Saturday should be nice. Following a cold Friday (hardly in the 60s for a high and good chance of rain), Saturday is forecast for a high of 70 with a lesser chance of rain only later in the day. My fingers are crossed!

[tri-dog]

Quick question, how do we get to the cache location Friday? Or, even better, when are you going and can I tag along?

[RoundRockTJ]

Anyone up for a second lap on the 10'th. I will be heading up that way from Texas but will not show up till mid day on Saturday. Actually I will only have a few hours to ride on Sunday morning. I will use the information in this Thread to plan my route. Damn I cannot wait.

[sportsman]

the cache location is a parking area on the north side of the road at Palo Flechado Pass.

You could drive up there (or ride up) any time on friday that you need to. The rest of us will just be throwing our stuff into a vehicle that is going to be driven, and then parked, there on Saturday morning.

[Timo]

Originally Posted by RichardinLA

Only one quick question... is it cool to leave vehicles in the parking lot of The Bean? I could probably leave the subbie at the hotel, but that would entail more biking. Trying to keep any extra miles off the radar.

So far, looks like Saturday should be nice. Following a cold Friday (hardly in the 60s for a high and good chance of rain), Saturday is forecast for a high of 70 with a lesser chance of rain only later in the day. My fingers are crossed!

Dunno where you are staying but Sun God is 150-ft from The Bean and El Pueblo is close enough to ride. Those road miles in the morning won't make a difference. Your call on the parking if you choose to drive. Taos is a small village though.

And for me at least it isn;t about how far you have to bike to the start in the morning...it's how far I have to bike from Eske's in the evening. I's plans on lots of beers!

Yeah it's a high country ride, prepare for rain at somepoint - hopefully if any then in the late afternoon. That is one of the reasons why I chose to do this in the reverse direction this year. If the late afternoon showers come then people can make thir own decision to either ride the downhill or bail to the paved road. And best of all the north course starts in DG soil (well drained soil), so if Friday is brutally wet, then we ride on trails that won't be an issue while the other areas dry up.

[Timo]

Originally Posted by tri-dog

Quick question, how do we get to the cache location Friday? Or, even better, when are you going and can I tag along?

A big green tote box will appear at The Bean Saturday morning and then magically reappear at Palo Flechado later in the day. I'd say drop your stuff in the big green tote and thank the nice lady who has no need to be there that early in the morning.

I have no plans to drop anything on Friday.

[Timo]

Originally Posted by sportsman

the cache location is a parking area on the north side of the road at Palo Flechado Pass.

You could drive up there (or ride up) any time on friday that you need to. The rest of us will just be throwing our stuff into a vehicle that is going to be driven, and then parked, there on Saturday morning.

This guy knows what he is talking about.

Btw, I fully expected some sort of "why the F@$#K are we now DESCENDING the EBT past Palo Flechado?"

[Timo]

Originally Posted by RoundRockTJ

Anyone up for a second lap on the 10'th. I will be heading up that way from Texas but will not show up till mid day on Saturday. Actually I will only have a few hours to ride on Sunday morning. I will use the information in this Thread to plan my route. Damn I cannot wait.

This is primitive stuff and I would not suggest following it unless you've spent long hours in the back country. At least try the South Boundary, but I hope you won't try any of the rest of this alone. Please check in with Gearing Up or Taos Cyclery and let them guide you on a route.

[lambo]

Come on over to Red River and get schooled. Ten hours, I'm almost fifty and its never take seven hours. Be nice and we might show you the good trails

[Timo]

Originally Posted by lambo

Come on over to Red River and get schooled. Ten hours, I'm almost fifty and its never take seven hours. Be nice and we might show you the good trails

The axiom of MTBR - always somebody will post about how tough and brave they are, and of course never show to back it up.

I'd like to ride Red River sometime, but not this weekend!

[sportsman]

Originally Posted by Timo

Btw, I fully expected some sort of "why the F@$#K are we now DESCENDING the EBT past Palo Flechado?"

it's all good....

, and truthfully, I couldn't really remember if this is waht we did last year or not. I remember descending to PF, and then reclimbing part of the descent before heading over to Bull Meadows, so I just didn't pay enough to this year's directions.

I'm just going to go all survivavilst mode and memorize the tire treads of all you frontrunning ba$tards, and if that doesn't work I'm just going to look for broken blades of grass and hope that I don't end up riding up an elk's a$$..

[tri-dog]

Originally Posted by sportsman

I'm just going to go all survivavilst mode and memorize the tire treads of all you frontrunning ba$tards, and if that doesn't work I'm just going to look for broken blades of grass and hope that I don't end up riding up an elk's a$$..

I believe it is bow hunting season for Elk, so leave your antler helmets at home.

[Timo]

The Double Boundary Trail 2006 was completed! Meeting at The Bean for the start time were 9 brave souls, and following that group and eventually catching up was one other hard pedalling indvidual. 3 Completely finished the route, 3 more completed enough of it to have it qualify as a finish, and 4 others completed the northern route and some of EBT before bailing.

The DBT-2006 turned into being more of a ride than a race as only 2 participants were familiar with the route, and others were a little overwhelmed with the route and directions. No problem, we hope this is a yearly event, so getting others familiar with the route - especially the northern and eastern portions - was accomplished.

The weather was awesome for the DBT-2006 and the trail conditions are great right now. We ran into elk and a huge pack of wild turkey. Bear scat was all over the trail in the northern portion, but no bears seen (although I'm sure they spotted us!). The prerequisite cows and the inseason bow hunters were out as well.

We were over 10,000-ft in climbing before we hit mile 50. Some of those climbs were on exhausting, technical terrain - either rocky or rooty, and some times even rocky and rooty. Overall 71-miles, 11,850-ft of climbing on very difficult terrain.

Complete Route Finishers
Nate B.
Jens N.
Matt T.

Alternative Route Finishers (with portions missing in paranthesis)
*Tim (Jaracita + lower EBT Loop) - Singlespeeder
*Scott S (Jaracita) - Singlespeeder
David W (lower EBT Loop)

*Note though that Scott and Tim added an extra 800-ft of climbing + a couple of miles due to a desire to take a "new" downhill at a most inopportune time.

Other DBT 2006 Riders
Warren, Dave K, Lenny G, Richard.

Lenny nailed the downhills and rode hard at the get go, Dave K displayed awesome feats of climbing, Warren was great company and always pushing it up front.

Richard damn near completed the whole thing! Given the fact that he rode a ton of dirt roads in his attempt to bail out on the route, he sure completed one hell of a epic and for that he earns the distinction of completing an epic that has never been done before.

Congrats to everyone. Hope to see all back next year.

[RichardinLA]

Originally Posted by Timo

Lenny nailed the downhills and rode hard at the get go, Dave K displayed awesome feats of climbing, Warren was great company and always pushing it up front, and Richard damn near completed the whole thing.

Congrats to everyone. Hope to see all back next year.

Yup, I came close to finishing the whole enchilada. I made it through EBT and even got hit with the "new downhill route" which ensued an additional climb. I had a blast down the first chunk of SBT, but the body and time gave out at Garcia Park. I bailed there, not knowing that I had 10 miles to go on dirt roads (first 3 a moderate climb, next 7 a FAST downhill) until I got to 64, then 12 more miles (all downhill!) on the asphalt into town. Did the 22 miles in right at an hour though and made it to the car by 7:15. Was sorely tempted to hit Eskes for a quick bite'n'beer, but my stomach was in knots, my body was buzzed beyond beliefe and I opted for a extra crispy chicken breast at KFC on the way home.

Thanks for setting this up, Matt. And a big thanks to Scott and Tim for egging me on. I was ready to bail at Palo Falchowder, but these two kept the fire going and helped me almost make it to the end. Perhaps if we hadn't had our 45-60 minute detour before catching SBT, I might have made it all the way through SBT.

You guys rock, and make me look like a puny little girl. I must do some serious training to put myself through this again. We'll see how the next 12 months go.

Cheers, Richard

[Timo]

Originally Posted by RichardinLA

Yup, I came close to finishing the whole enchilada. I made it through EBT and even got hit with the "new downhill route" which ensued an additional climb. I had a blast down the first chunk of SBT, but the body and time gave out at Garcia Park. I bailed there, not knowing that I had 10 miles to go on dirt roads (first 3 a moderate climb, next 7 a FAST downhill) until I got to 64, then 12 more miles (all downhill!) on the asphalt into town. Did the 22 miles in right at an hour though and made it to the car by 7:15. Was sorely tempted to hit Eskes for a quick bite'n'beer, but my stomach was in knots, my body was buzzed beyond beliefe and I opted for a extra crispy chicken breast at KFC on the way home.

Thanks for setting this up, Matt. And a big thanks to Scott and Tim for egging me on. I was ready to bail at Palo Falchowder, but these two kept the fire going and helped me almost make it to the end. Perhaps if we hadn't had our 45-60 minute detour before catching SBT, I might have made it all the way through SBT.

You guys rock, and make me look like a puny little girl. I must do some serious training to put myself through this again. We'll see how the next 12 months go.

Cheers, Richard

Awesome news Richard - that is truly one hell of an epic. Anyway welcome to the "club" Hope to see you at more of the NM Endurance Series in the future. Your first big enduro ride and you rocked! Congrats.

Extra cripsy chicken would have hit the spot. For the Eske's crew it was either the Fatty or the Green Chile CB...and beer, lots of beer.

[biking_dane]

Matt,

Thanks for organizing this ride. This ride was epic. On the east coast we would have run out of mountains in 12 hours. I was happy to stay with you, otherwise I would have been lost about 20 times, and probably would have ended up in the mouth of a bear or a mountain lion.

Jens

[tri-dog]

I'll second the Dane! I would have been lost, died of exposure, been picked at by wild animals, or caped and mounted on some hunter's wall. I'm glad I managed to get past feeling like hammered dog cr@p for a couple hours in there, really enjoyed riding w/ the Jens, Matt, and Dave there at the end. The mostly quality trail I've ever been on. Also, lets not forget, Dave didn't re-load at the cache, riding the entire thing w/ what was on his back at the start! Enjoyed meeting/riding/hanging out w/ all the good people. Looking forward to seeing Tim and Scott's pics, it was a beautiful day. Warm down low, felt like fall above 10K.
Nate

[sportsman]

It was a great day. Spent a little while in the pain cave, but even that wasn't as bad as others tha I remember. It was good riding with all of you..

my pics are here eventually I'll finish a write-up as well...


sweetleaf and richardinLA, I really can't express to either of you how sorry I am that we missed that turn.