It’s a tradition on Departure Day to wear my Danish national soccer team jersey, given to me as a gift by our friends from Denmark, where Sarah and I got married. Sadly, Denmark did not qualify for this year’s World Cup, which begins this week in Mexico City, Toronto and Los Angeles. Here in Carbondale, looks like Walter Jr and I are ready to roll.
Today begins 21 days on the road.
That’s three weeks of riding, divided into five trips between now and August. Today is Day One of Trip One, a five-day journey across western Colorado and southern Utah.
Who’s along for the ride?
Carbondale neighbor and riding buddy Clarence, the elder statesman among us. Ski instructor friend Dan, from Glenwood Springs. Ski instructor friend Mark, from Woody Creek. And, Walter Jr, my comfort wolf. Oh, and of course, me.
Mark and Dan at the Grand Mesa visitor center.
Lookin’ good, Mr. Work Sucks.
Ruby, relaxing high on the Grand Mesa.
We begin the journey with a leisurely 175-mile ride, taking in scenic McClure Pass (8,755 feet), climbing over the Grand Mesa (10,839 feet), which received Honorable Mention on my all-time best rides list. The Grand Mesa leads us to De Beque Canyon, and eventually we wind up in the heart of Colorado’s wine country. We’re staying at the Wine Country Inn, of course.
Palisade wine is big business, and good for tourism.
Riding With Gary 