Sedona / Flagstaff

The higher elevations are marked by cooler evening and early morning temperatures and today was no exception.  Some of the riders from southern parts of the country wore arm warmers but we Midwesterners would consider that to be weenie-like behavior.

During the first hour of today's ride, I was riding by myself (by design).  The cool morning air hitting my face as I silently moved through the Arizona high country, surrounded by mountains, made for a spiritual experience.  This has been the realization of a dream yet it's so much more than that.   We never know what the future holds for us so when these special moments come along, I realize how incredibly fortunate I am.

It also occurred to me that seeing this natural beauty by bicycle has clear advantages of viewing it from a car (unless you're a passenger) and even by walking because you have to always watch where you're stepping.  On a bike, you can take in the sights, sounds and smells at a nice pace, stopping whenever you want.  And you don't need to always focus your every attention on the road in front of you.  Yes, there is that physical challenge part but like mountain climbing / trekking, it's about earning it.   

My nephew, Joshua, asked me about wildlife in Arizona.  The short answer is that we haven't seen much and what we have seen has mainly been roadkill, particularly coyotes and rattlesnakes.  We have seen some small lizards, chipmunks, rabbits and scavenger birds like ravens and vultures.  There have also been plenty of road signs alerting drivers to watch out for deer.  In the high country, there is a healthy number of mountain lions. 

Climbing was once again the order of the day and we began a moderate ascent almost immediately after leaving Cottonwood.  After clearing a rise, we came into Red Rock country which is also where Sedona is located. 

Entering Red Rock country

Outskirts of Sedona

Diana and I hiked this area in 2007

Taken from "downtown" Sedona

Oak Creek Canyon area, just north of Sedona

We continued into the Coconino National Forest.  There is a striking contrast of stark, massive red rock formations with their bases heavily forested by pine trees.

From the pass at Coconino National Forest

Three of the many switchbacks that we rode to reach Coconino Pass

Wrapping up an incredible first week.

Total Miles:  47           Total Vertical Climb:   6700 ft.

Tomorrow (Sunday, May 20th) is our first non-riding day.  I plan to get a massage today as do many of my colleagues.