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In my two-season TrailQuest journey, I wrecked 3 pairs of gloves, replaced 2 drive trains on my bike, replaced 7 tires, broke 2 helmets, tore up multiple pairs of shorts, ruined a few pairs of socks, wore out the soles of two pairs of shoes, spent roughly $2000 in parts and maintenance on my bike, endured too many saddle sores, broke my tailbone, and broke my little toe. I suffered on multiple long rides, occasionally breaking down to tears. But I also experienced so much joy in the beauty of the lands that surround us and in finding new trails that were new to me that made great rides.

These trails? Well, they’re all west of the West Elk Wilderness, about halfway between Gunnison and Crawford. On paper, it’s a good loop. What we would find on the ground? That was still a bit of a mystery,

We would have to say that we were pretty impressed overall with the mountain biking at Red Hill. The riding is high quality, and so are the views. This is also a great place to go once the high country has some snow- Carbondale isn’t quite as warm and dry as Fruita or Moab, but the season is certainly longer than other areas and you don’t have to drive all the way to the desert to get there. I’m sure we’ll be back.

Frank and I have a reputation. We have a reputation for taking people on things that crush them. In other words, we “Konsella” them. We’d like to think we’re getting better at not doing such things. But, many-a-friend can attest to being “Konsella-ed” themselves. See, the thing is, how can we refrain from “Konsella-ing” our friends when every now and then we “Konsella” ourselves?

That’s what happened to Heather and I while mountain biking Interocean Pass to Lamborn. This ride simply crushed us down to the soul.

Monarch Pass harbors some of the best alpine mountain biking in Colorado. But, since most trails are on the south side of Highway 50, most mountain bikers find themselves concentrated there. What happens if you ride on the north side of the highway? You’ll encounter even more (and better) scenery, some beautiful alpine lakes, and the most challenging descent that this area has to offer. It’s a worthy visit for those up for adventure!