TR: Salida Riding – Arkansas Hills – Cottonwood Tour
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Salida is probably more known for its riding off of Monarch Pass along the Monarch Crest. While variations of the Monarch Crest are certainly awesome, Salida also has some great other riding options. Back in mid-Septemeber a front was passing through and I didn’t want to ride in the pouring rain, or potentially snow, in Crested Butte. I was looking for a good desert ride that was not too far away from home and the Arkansas Hills Trail System, off of the S-Mountain, fit the bill. The Cottonwood Tour was a longer option. Larry and Natalie joined be for the day!
We started in town, and began the climb. Larry.
Natalie.
The Arkansas Hills Trail System is pretty well marked. At the top, we found yet another sign.
Then there was the down. There was a lot of down, a good thing!
Fast and flowy down.
But with occasional obstacles.
Me.
Some techy spots for sure too.
Larry.
Natalie.
Then the front started to move our way. It was a race to beat the rain.
Larry.
Sweet Dreams was beautiful and sweet. Natalie.
Me near the bottom.
All in all, the Arkansas Hills have some pretty good trails and are rideable most of the year. So, if you’re looking for some desert riding this fall and spring, keep Salida in mind!
The loop we rode, the Arkansas Hills Cottonwood Tour, can be found on Mountain Bike Project.
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