The Dark Woods

Having been biking a lot recently, we decided that it was time for a change. We would take our bikes for a walk. First, we noticed that our pace was slower than usual on the road approach to the trailhead. However, it was not long before we were surprised by the speed with which we could clear technical sections. Here we see Rob tackling a technical ledge climb:


















Photo: Tom Collier

Our next surprise was at how stealthy we could be. I nearly missed Max walking by. He was almost silent! Thankfully, my camera was already out and I was setting up for a nature shot. However, I was pretty disappointed that he ruined my planned shot. Evidence below:
















Photo: Tom Collier

Before long, daylight began to wane and we realized that we needed to mount our bikes in order to arrive safely at home before dark (when bears, moose, tigers, satyrs, and other frights come out). Rob led the charge pedaling with abandon, even over obstacles that now seemed terrifying to us from the skyscraper like heights of our saddles (walking keeps one much closer to the ground and thus, safe).
















Photo: Tom Collier

Next, Max took us across a frightful swamp. Who knows what dreadful creatures must dwell in its murky depths. Luckily, a bridge conveyed us well above the swamp. We were thankful for our tall bikes now. What had previously seemed unstable and unsafe now was protecting us by keeping us away from the swamp monsters.

















Photo: Tom Collier

We made it safely back home just before dark, escaping unscathed from the dark woods.