There were 14 people with 9 bikes ready for our annual "Rim Ride", our journey along the Mogollon Rim. We were also joined at the station by Vern Chrestensen, our venerable tail dragger with the great voice on the CB radio. Vern is leaving GV, and we will all miss him! Good Luck, Vern!
We headed up the Bush Hwy, with Bob S. leading with myself on the tail. We were concerned that we would encounter cool temperatures on the way to Payson, but were pleasantly surprised to see temps of 60 degrees when we arrived. Our first stop was the Crosswinds Cafe, where they had tables ready for us. After a good breakfast, we were ready to tackle the Rim. We headed out on the 260 Hwy, marveling at the vast pine forests and the marvelous vistas as we traveled along. We encountered snow along the way in the higher elevations, along with cooler temperatures, Dan K spotted a deer standing along the highway, but no elk. Our next stop was Show Low, with a welcome stop for gas and a break. We then headed out on the 60, toward the Salt River Canyon. We descended into the canyon, winding around the many turns and switchbacks until we reached the rest area at the bottom. After a much needed rest break, we climbed back on our bikes for the last leg of our journey, stopping again in Globe for another rest before continuing on. We encountered warm temps as we descended into the valley, registering 86 degrees as we traveled through Gold Canyon and home. My bike registered 309.9 miles traveled, returning at 4:15 PM, ending our yearly "signature" ride of the Blue's Angels!
Next Wednesday's ride is to Oracle and the "Oarhouse", a new spot for us. They don't open until 11 AM, so lunch is in order.
Duane
The road into the canyon
Salt River canyon
Snow along the highway
Vern & Phil
No comments:
Post a Comment